Thursday, April 28, 2011

Act today -- State Library Funding being cut


Florida Library Funding At Risk of Elimination!
 
House and Senate budget conferees are meeting in Tallahassee to finalize the State budget before the session is scheduled to end on May 6.  The House has $17.7 million for public libraries, the Senate has zero, and $21.2 million is needed to avoid loss of federal matching dollars.  If the Senate prevails branch libraries will close in communities large and small. 

$21.2 million is the current year funding level but library funding has already been cut by 1/3 at the state level and in many communities library budgets have been cut by 40%.

During these challenging times Floridians are using libraries more than ever for essential services like help with job seeking, use of E-Government Services, and for business information.  Libraries help young children develop early learning skills and help parents learn to be their child's first teacher – both critical services for children's success in school and life.  Libraries provide great economic value as confirmed by a Department of State study showing libraries generate an $8.32 Return on Investment.

Please contact your legislators and the leadership now!

And please, please keep the message positive!

Editable message for adovcates to send legislators and state leaders

 
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