April 26, 2023 — Today, more than 300 public library directors, fiscal officers, trustees, and supporters gathered at the Statehouse to meet one-on-one with their members of the Ohio General Assembly during the OLC’s Library Legislative Day at the Statehouse. Our top issue, library funding in the biennial state budget, was discussed along with a myriad of innovative programs and services offered to Ohio’s 7.7 million cardholders.

 

Ohio Governor DeWine and the First Lady addressed the capacity crowd in the Statehouse Atrium and praised public libraries as the center of Ohio’s communities. They also talked about the important role libraries play in early childhood literacy and getting children ready for school. In addition to remarks from the DeWines, attendees also heard from House Minority Leader Allison Russo, Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio, Senate President Matt Huffman, and House Majority Floor Leader Bill Seitz.

 

Before the luncheon with legislators, the OLC presented the Andrew Carnegie Award to Senator Matt Dolan for his steadfast support of public libraries.

The event also featured a Library Showcase in the Statehouse Rotunda, where visitors could see a sampling of the in-demand programs and innovative services offered at Ohio’s public libraries. You can see some photos of today’s event on social media using #OhioLibraryDay.