The Ohio Library Council would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Gov. Mike DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly for making Ohio’s public libraries a priority in the state budget bill and investing in institutions that provide lifelong learning opportunities to all Ohioans. Your commitment to Ohio’s 8.5 million library cardholders in the form of increased funding is a commitment that will pay dividends for years to come, especially in the areas of childhood education, broadband connectivity and workforce development. This is a proven investment that offers all Ohioans the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of means or zip code.

Today’s libraries are energetic places for information and education offering a wide variety of services for every stage of life, from Kindergarten readiness and homework help centers to job search assistance and training on the latest technology. The Ohio Library Council worked to secure an increase of nearly $20 million in additional funding to libraries ensure that essential services, such as access to computers and the internet, can continue to be provided to all Ohioans through their local libraries.

We are proud that Ohio has the highest library use per capita in the United States and excited to see what new services will be added as a result of this additional funding.