COLUMBUS, Ohio-Ohio public libraries are facing significant funding challenges due to declining state revenues, which is threatening the operations and programs of these community hubs. The Ohio Library Council’s executive director, Michelle Francis, testified to the Joint Property Tax Review and Reform Committee that further funding cuts would be devastating to many communities.
Libraries receive funding from the Public Library Fund, which has been declining since 2008 and is currently at $187.5 million. The fund was originally at $450.6 million in 2008, but even adjusting for inflation would only bring it to $645.7 million today. Many libraries are turning to property tax levies to make up for the shortfall, with 203 of the 251 libraries in Ohio relying on levies for funding.
Ohio libraries bracing for tough choices as state funding revenue continues to dip
