LOVELAND, OHIO - Area residents supporting keeping the Loveland Library open rallied on Monday afternoon urging motorists to vote "Yes" on Issue 7. The "Honk and Wave" events were held at forty-three locations throughout Hamilton County.
On November 3, the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County will have a 1 mill operating issue on the ballot. Due to state budget cuts, the Library is facing a 28% reduction in funding, a $16 million deficit. As a result of these cuts, the Library has already had to eliminate nearly 200 staff positions, cut 241 hours a week, and canceling or postponing all capital projects.
The stakes have never been higher! Currently, the Library enjoys over 5.6 million visits annually and is home to the busiest Main Library in the country. However, without new funding, the Library will be forced to make more cuts which will result in branch closings, further reduced hours, additional cuts in staff, and a further reduction in the purchasing of Library materials. By passing Issue 7, which will cost the owner of a $100,000 home $2.50 a month, Hamilton County residents can Save Our Library system.
