Dear Mr. Taylor,

Thank you for contacting me with your concerns regarding the proposed budget cuts to public libraries. These decreases in funding for FY10/FY11 versus FY08/FY09 are due to significant shortfalls in state revenues and funding for the Public Library Fund. I share your concerns.

Now more than ever, it is important to maintain funding for public libraries. We have one of the best library systems in the country, and it my sincere hope to keep it that way. Our libraries are an integral part of our educational system, as they allow us to continue learning, free of cost. In addition, libraries provide computers and career resources, helping people get back on their feet. These tools are necessary in the midst of the economic crisis.

We have worked too long to build, and Ohioans have sacrificed too much to sustain, one of the best library systems in the United States; just to see it falter, even in times like this. It is important that we keep our libraries strong.

Though I do not sit on the conference committee, I will do my best to help advocate for a better solution. As always, I welcome your questions, comments, and concerns. Thank you again for your strong commitment to Ohio’s libraries. Your message is important to our future.

Sincerely,

Tom Sawyer
State Senator,
28th District