TROY – The Ohio House of Representatives released its proposed state budget on April 1, recommending the elimination of the Public Library Fund (PLF) and significantly reducing state funding for libraries. The proposed changes would eliminate more than $100 million in library funding over the next two years, starting in July 2025.
This follows a $27 million funding loss for public libraries in Calendar Year 2024. Additionally, the proposal would convert library funding into a line item in the budget, making it more vulnerable to future cuts.
“The dissolution of the Public Library Fund will discourage resource sharing among libraries,” said Rachelle Via, director of Troy-Miami County Public Library. “Currently, state tax dollars fund only 51% of all library services. If this amount is further eliminated and legislators continue to shift the tax burden to individual localities via property tax, you will see less resource sharing. Libraries aren’t going to be able to provide materials to patrons who aren’t paying for them via state tax dollars.”
Via also noted the potential impact on long-standing collaborations. “The partnership we have with Dayton Metro Library and Bradford Public Library to share materials, which has been in place for more than 25 years, will be in jeopardy.”
Troy-Miami County Public Library participates in the Ohio Digital Downloads consortium, providing access to e-books and other digital materials, and also shares materials through the statewide SearchOhio consortium. The proposed budget cuts could potentially affect these services.
“Anyone who values their local library and wants their tax dollars to continue supporting libraries across Ohio should reach out to their representatives. Share your stories and tell them why they must restore the PLF to 1.75%.”
Ohio District 80 Representative Johnathan Newman
(614) 466-8114 or www.ohiohouse.gov/johnathan-newman
House Speaker Matt Huffman
(614) 466-6344 or www.ohiohouse.gov/matt-huffman
The Troy-Miami County Public Library is located at 419 West Main Street in Troy, Ohio. For more information, call the library at (937)339-0502 or visit our website, www.tmcpl.org
