Wednesday, April 9
Dear Community Members/Library Supporters,
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who reached out to the Ohio House of Representatives on behalf of public libraries. Your advocacy played a crucial role in reinstating the Public Library Fund (PLF) in the omnibus amendment to House Bill 96—a significant achievement for libraries across Ohio.
While the current funding levels are below Governor DeWine’s initial proposal, preserving the PLF is a testament to the power of community action. At this time, no further outreach to the Senate is necessary. However, as the budget process continues, we may seek your support again to ensure our libraries receive the resources they need to serve our community effectively.
Thank you once again for your dedication and support. Together, we make a difference.
Sincerely,
Tony Howard
Director, Pickerington Public Library
Tuesday, April 4
I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has reached out in support of public libraries in response to the recent state budget proposal. Your voices matter, and your advocacy makes a real difference.
I also want to clarify something important: Representative Jeff LaRe has long been a supporter of Ohio’s libraries, including Pickerington Public Library. My previous message to the community was never intended to suggest otherwise. I apologize if it gave the impression that he does not value or support libraries—this was not my intent.
At the same time, the current proposal in the Ohio House would significantly impact library funding, and we continue to need the support of all our legislators, including Representative LaRe, as the budget process moves forward. We remain hopeful that through respectful dialogue and continued community advocacy, we can work together to protect the resources and services that Ohio’s public libraries provide.
Please continue to contact your state legislator before Wednesday, April 9, 2025, and ask them to restore the Public Library Fund to the Governor’s proposed 1.75%. Just as importantly, share this message with your friends and family and encourage them to speak up as well—every voice helps.
Thank you for your continued passion and support. Libraries thrive when communities like ours stand together.
Sincerely,
Tony Howard
Director, Pickerington Public Library
Wednesday, April 3
Dear Library Supporters,
The Ohio House has introduced a proposed state budget that drastically reduces funding for Ohio’s public libraries, including Pickerington Public Library. The current version of House Bill 96 eliminates the Public Library Fund (PLF) as it exists today, making our funding more vulnerable in future state budgets.
If passed, this budget would reduce state funding for Ohio’s libraries by more than $100 million over the next two years. The Ohio House of Representatives votes on this proposed state budget on Wednesday, April 9.
Public libraries across Ohio—including ours—rely on this funding to provide essential services, such as:
- Early childhood literacy programs
- Summer and winter reading initiatives
- Access to books, ebooks, kits, experience passes and more
- Access to technology and the internet
- Tax assistance and job search support
This proposal isn’t just about budget numbers—it threatens the future of library services in our community. We need your voice to help restore library funding.
HOW YOU CAN HELP: Before Wednesday, April 9 contact:
- Email or call Representative Jeff LaRe: rep73@ohiohouse.gov or (614) 466-8100
- Email or call Speaker Matt Huffman: rep78@ohiohouse.gov or (614) 466-6344
KEY MESSAGE TO SHARE:
- Don’t cut Ohio’s public libraries!
- Don’t cut my library!
- Restore the Public Library Fund to the Governor’s proposed 1.75%!
- Share your story! Let legislators know how Pickerington Public Library has impacted your life.
Libraries have been a cornerstone of Ohio communities for nearly 100 years. Let’s ensure they remain strong for generations to come. Thank you for being a passionate advocate for public libraries!
Sincerely,
Tony Howard
Director, Pickerington Public Library
