Save Our Libraries!

Governor Strickland is proposing a 50% cut in funding for libraries. This gets me fired up!

For Cincinnati libraries, this would mean that by September 2009:

• Up to 20 branch libraries closed
• Dramatic cuts in Main Library hours
• Greatly reduced computer access
• Fewer new materials available
• Elimination of services to residents of all ages
• 250 additional jobs lost
• Fewer staff to assist customers

In my view, the greatest victims of these cuts will be kids, especially in poor areas, and the homeless. Kids who have no where else to go after school (and are already victims of Ohio's unconstitutional school funding) can go to the library and find a nurturing environment. Additionally, Cincinnati's Main Library is often called the largest daytime homeless shelter in the area. Many would see that as a drawback to the library, but I see it as a strength. In both cases, the library is a positive environment for people who have no where else to go. Taking that away will be devastating to our communities.

Contact Governor Strickland and the other legislators involved to tell them that libraries are important to Ohio. Here's what I wrote:

Dear Legislators,
I sincerely value your time and your commitment to serving the needs of the citizens of Ohio. I know that times are tough financially and that hard decisions need to be made. However, I beg you to please spare our libraries such a devastating cut. Even as technology has advanced, libraries continue to be a foundation of our communities. People gather there, people learn there, people connect there.

As much as I am personally offended by the notion of slashing the library budget, I am primarily writing on behalf of the children in my community. I live in Walnut Hills in Cincinnati. Many kids here are facing disadvantages that are stacked up high against them; it's the same in other areas of my city and of our state. One of these hindrances is a school funding system that is unconstitutional. Every time I go to the library, though, I see kids who are safe, learning, and laughing. Kids in my neighborhood get excited to go to the library after school. No matter a child's background, they can come into the library and have access to books, resources, and talented and committed librarians. I beg you to consider each of these vibrant children when you make your decision.

Please don't continue to undercut the potential of kids growing up in Ohio.

Thank you for your time.

Melissa Hill