The points for persons to remember, when talking to legislators, etc. are:

• Libraries are GOOD for our communities!
   
• The appreciated, but modest, proposed increase of 2.5% still leaves the state support for public libraries more than $15million less than it was 3 years ago -- and that's before inflation!
   
• With the current and proposed level of state funding, libraries are unable to meet the needs of their communities - patrons experience reduced services, library hours have been cut, and resource purchases have decreased.
   
• Community library funding is a partnership. With this continuing reduced state funding, fewer federal dollars will flow into PA.
   
• The previous level of funding of $75 million was the result of careful planning and assessment. We ask the Governor and the Legislature to restore library support to the way they found it 3 years ago.