Libraries in Ohio are funded by the state’s Public Library Fund, which comprises 93% of our funding. Ohio’s financial crisis has had a significant impact upon all libraries since library funding comes from the state’s general revenue fund.

Ohio’s struggling economy has had a major impact on the services we provide. Despite the reduction in our hours, staff, materials and services, library usage has increased, indicating that our services are needed more than ever in this troubled economy.

The Library System Board of Trustees began grappling with declining funding in 2005. Our board began a proactive approach by cutting staff through attrition, while continuing to serve more citizens with less money. After careful consideration, our board has decided to place a .75 mill levy on the May 4 ballot. This operating levy would generate approximately $ 3.2 million dollars annually for the Library System and continue for 5 years. This .75 mill levy would cost the $100,000 homeowner about $23 per year, less than the cost of a single hardcover book.