Ohio Budget Update: Thank You for Your Support!

Thank you, Library Advocates!

We are grateful for the response to our call for support regarding the Ohio House's budget proposal. Thank you to everyone who reached out to their legislators and shared why they love their library!

We're happy to report that the Ohio House amended their proposal that would have drastically cut library funding. While we appreciate the House's efforts to adjust the proposal, it’s important to note that the current version of the bill still falls $90.8 million short of the Governor’s recommended funding for public libraries over the biennium (two years).

About the Ohio House's Proposal

• The Ohio House's budget eliminates the the Public Library Fund (PLF) as it exists today. Currently, a percentage of the state's General Revenue Fund is dedicated to the PLF.
• The proposal replaces the PLF with a fixed dollar amount to public libraries through a line-item appropriation. This could result in funding cuts to public libraries across Ohio.
• The current version of the bill still falls $90.8 million short of the Governor’s recommended funding for public libraries over the biennium (two years).
• Public library funding has not kept up with inflation. The proposed budget would provide funding at the same amount libraries received 25 years ago.

What's Next?

• The proposal will now head to the Ohio Senate.
• We will continue to monitor this process and keep you informed.
• We may ask for support again along the way!

Thank you again for taking action! We appreciate your help in advocating for The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County and libraries across the state.