How Important Are Libraries to You and Your Family?

Proposed cuts in library funding will affect important services such as shared databases (POWER Library), interlibrary loan, and Ask Here PA, the state’s virtual reference service.  Additionally, Governor Rendell’s budget proposal (H.B. 1416) cuts will cost Pennsylvania over $900,000 in lost federal funds.  The Senate Republican House budget proposal (S.B. 850) goes even farther, slashing library funding by over $50,000,000 and costing almost $4,000,000 in loss of federal funds. Were this bill to become law, books, DVDs, access to computers, lending between libraries, online databases, programs for kids, and professional staff would be drastically reduced or eliminated.  In short, it would be a disaster for Pennsylvanians who depend on good quality libraries.

The loss of this funding will be devastating to libraries and their patrons across the Commonwealth.  At this time libraries are bursting at the seams serving the unemployed, families on tight budgets, and retirees grappling with shrinking savings.  Reductions in funding will force libraries to reduce hours and services for those who depend on them most.

Reading lists for 2009-2010 have just been announced!

Contemporary Book Group

Classics Book Group

Lifelong Readers Book Group

Between the Lines Book Group

Animal Lovers Book Group (NEW!)