20 of 40 Libraries May Close
LOVELAND, OHIO – Phyllis Hegner, Community Relations Manager for the Public Library of Cincinnati & Hamilton County said, “Hundreds of people are expected to turn out tomorrow,” at the Loveland Library at 649 Loveland-Madeira Road. She said the rally is in support of "saving our libraries" from the Governor's proposed budget cuts.
The rally is a call to action because of Governor Ted Strickland's proposal to cut 50 per-cent from state library funding. Hegner said, “That amounts, to a 50% slash to public library funding, which is the primary funding source for public libraries in Ohio.” She expects a budget decision will be made by the end of the month.
Joan Luebering, Loveland Branch Manager said she did not know if the Loveland Branch would be closed if the proposed budget cuts go forward. “A lot of factors will go into that decision, depending on whether or not the buildings are owned or leased, circulation numbers, and a branch's proximity to other branches. The Loveland library leases space in the Shoppers Haven center, however is close to Symmes, and Madeira libraries, both of which are in stand alone buildings. “I can tell you that I hope it is not closed.” said Luebering.
She said that Loveland is eleventh most used out of the 40 branches and added that Loveland has a high percentage of “print circulation” compared to other branches; meaning that people use the Loveland library to take out more books as compared to videos and audio tapes. She said the print circulation was second highest in the system.
Luebering said, hundreds of children from the Loveland Primary and Elementary schools use her branch during the school year. The Loveland Library is just across the street from the two schools. She said she has been in contact with Superintendent, Dr. Kevin Boys and even though school is not in session has talked to many teachers. “The teachers I have talked to are horrified at the prospect of this branch closing.” She also said that hundreds of local children are currently participating in a summer reading program which she described as a “huge success so far.”
According to Hegner, if library funding is cut, as early as September, the Cincinnati area could see, up to 20 of 40 branch libraries closed, “Dramatic” reduction in Main Library hours, 250 jobs lost, computer access reduced by over 30%, fewer new materials available, elimination of services to residents of all ages, fewer children's programs, and less qualified staff.
Luebering said that since 2000, the Cincinnati and Hamilton County library system has seen a 25 per-cent reduction in funding from the state, and have already cut over 100 jobs. Hours of operation and spending for technology, “Which our patrons expect”, have also been limited.
The budget decision is expected next week according to Luebering.
The rally will be at 11 AM on Wednesday, June 24.
Click for information on contacting the State office holders. You can call or email your objections to the Governor and six members of the Conference Committee as well as your legislators. The budget decision must be made by June 30.
