Although the latest 2009-2010 budget proposal has yet to be announced,  the Pennsylvania Legislature is looking to cut funding for public libraries across the commonwealth!  Without level funding, library facilities, hours, services, programming, materials and personnel will be drastically affected.

The services the Chester County Library System provides can and do make a difference in people's lives.  People count on the libraries for computer and Internet access, job-search assistance, educational programs, books and information as well as free entertainment - especially in hard economic times.  Depending on the proposed cuts, CCLS could lose hundreds of thousands in state funding, as well as the reductions to POWER Library - costing tens of thousands more in the purchase of databases to replace those resources.

We need your help to avoid devastating funding cuts for all public libraries. NOW is the time to make your voice heard!

     Demand for library services is up dramatically during this recession.   Libraries all across Pennsylvania are busier than ever before serving people looking for work, families on tight budgets, and retirees grappling with shrinking savings. Budget cuts will reduce library services for the very people who need libraries the most.

        Governor Rendell's original 2009 - 2010 budget already will cost Pennsylvania almost $1 million in federal money for libraries. 

     Additional funding is needed now more than ever to meet the rising demand for hours, computer access, current books, databases, publications and DVDs.       

Please contact your state elected officials today and let them know what the library means to you.  Encourage them to support public library funding for the Chester County libraries and libraries across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  Ask your neighbors, friends and family to do the same.  

We also encourage you to Tell Us Your Story.  Tell us why the library is valuable to you.  Your stories help up demonstrate the impact we have in the community.

Want to Know More?

More specifics can be found at the Pennsylvania Library Association Website:

 Talking Points

          Click here for talking points from the Pennsylvania Library Association.

 Frequently Asked Questions about the State Budget

          Click here for answers to frequently asked questions.

 Goals for 2009-2010 State Budget:

           Click here for Pennsylvania Library Association goals.

 

Not sure who to contact?

            Visit the Chester County Directory at the PA League of Women Voters Site