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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