News from the Director...
An issue that has been affecting libraries all over the state of Ohio is state funding. Library funding is a complex issue and one that I hope to address and answer some of the more commonly asked questions and misconceptions.
1. Where does the library get its money?
The majority of the money that our library receives comes from the state’s general budget. The fund is called the PLF (Public Library Fund) and the percent that libraries receive is determined in the state’s budget. The money goes to the county and then is distributed to the 4 libraries in Henry County with the percent received based on the number of students living in the school district. Some libraries have tax levies to supplement their funding but the PHSD Public Library does not.
2. What is the connection between the library and the school?
We have a unique relationship with the schools in our service area. It has been a relationship that has been beneficial to both the library and the school. It has also benefited the tax payer as we share our resources which helps keep costs down. The library provides the staff and all the materials in the library. The school provides the buildings and takes care of all of the maintenance of it.
3. Does the Library receive any money from the school?
The library does not receive any money from the schools.
4. How have the cuts from the state affected the library?
In July of 2009 libraries in the state of Ohio were hit hard by cuts on 2 levels. The library received about 19% less in funds simply because the state sales tax numbers were down. The second part of the cuts came when the new state budget was released where public libraries were cut an additional 11 % The original proposal from the state was for an additional 30% cut but thanks to the many library supporters over the state of Ohio contacting their representatives in Congress, that number was reduced to 11%.
5. How had the library responded to the cuts?
The Library Board had to make very hard decisions as far as cuts to the budget. The 3 libraries had their hours open to the public cut 21.9%. However, the staff hours were cut 44.5%. The library has made every attempt to provide the same services on less staff hours. Another area that was cut hard was the material budget. Books, DVD’s and magazine budgets were slashed heavily.
6. What will the new state budget mean to the library?
The state is required to have a balanced budget by June 30, 2011. This is done every 2 years. Libraries along with every agency that receives state funding are anxiously awaiting the new budget as more cuts are being predicted.
7. How can I help the library?
Patrons can help the library in a variety of ways. Memorial books, donations, supporting bake sales and book sales can all help. You can also contact your legislatures and let them know what the library and our services mean to you. The Library board is committed to providing the best library service to all three communities that we serve: Deshler, Hamler and Malinta.
Library Director
Lori Tietje
e-mail: tietjelo@oplin.org
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