Reporting on "Save Ohio Libraries" (Thank you to Patrons) 6-26-09

I report in front of the Sylvester Memorial Wellston Public Library on "Save Ohio Libraries" .

6/25/09 Significant Progress on Efforts to Save Ohio Libraries

"The Save Ohio Libraries campaign has been a tremendous success as evidenced by the number of calls and e-mails sent to the Governor's office and the legislature, the media coverage of the support for public libraries, and the online activity of public library supporters. This success has come from the quality of the calls and e-mails to the Governor and the General Assembly from library patrons. Because of them, the library voice has been heard loud and proud.

Legislators are supporting public libraries. Many members of the General Assembly have issued statements in support of public libraries. And remember, the proposal to cut public library funding was never the idea of the General Assembly.

Now what? According to recent reports, the Conference Committee intends to discuss amendments to the budget bill over the weekend and have the budget ready for vote on Monday, June 29.

At this point, the OLC suggests that libraries pare back the intensity of their messages that ask patrons to contact the Governor and members of the legislature. As mentioned above, the library voice has been heard.

Libraries that have signs in windows and messages on their Web sites about the impact of the budget cuts should consider amending the message to express their thanks to patrons for their incredible support. The message to most of the legislators (at least those who have publicly shown support for public libraries) should also be one of thanks for agreeing to do what they can to honor the legislature's commitment to support public libraries with 2.22% of the state's tax revenue.

The OLC encourages libraries to continue to post updates for patrons on a section of the library's Web site. If this budget discussion continues for any reason, libraries will need to re-energize their efforts to mobilize patrons. The Governor, the legislature, and every community in the state now knows that it can be done if needed." - OLC
"I would like to thank Jamie Mosley for helping me film this report "

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• Wellston
• Save Ohio Libraries