The Governor's 2009-2010 Budget Proposal (H.B. 1416) calls for a 5% reduction in funding for Pennsylvania's libraries.  And just when we thought it couldn't get worse, the State Senate passed S.B. 850, a proposal that slashes library services by cutting more than 50% of funding!  A comparison chart of these two proposals can be found at this link: http://www.palibraries.org/associations/9291/files/State%20budget%20proposals%20compared.pdf.

Between now and June 1, legislators will be in their home districts making it a great time for library advocates to contact them.  We need each and every one of you to reach out to your patrons, trustees, friends groups and vendors and strongly urge them to personally take action.  Write letters, make phone calls, schedule visits, or send emails to your legislators on behalf of Pennsylvania Libraries.  Advise everyone who uses libraries or cares about libraries to add their voices to support level funding for library services in next year's budget.

Our message remains the same.

• 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.
• Reduced library funding will cost Pennsylvania nearly a million dollars in lost federal library funding under H.B. 1416.  Even worse, Pennsylvania's library users will lose $3.8 million in federal funds if S.B. 850 became law.

Visit www.palibraries.org for legislative updates, Talking Points, FAQ, Advocacy and Soundbites.  Please complete and send in a Commitment Form to let us know about your advocacy.

Please let Glenn Miller know of any feedback you receive from your legislators.  Send him an email at, glenn@palibraries.org or fax to 717-766-5440.

Thanks for stepping up your efforts and recruiting more library advocates at this critical time.