We sincerely thank our patrons for their overwhelming support in contacting our state legislators. The cuts were not as drastic as proposed but have been devastating to absorb.
To date this year we have received $52,789.44 less in funding than we received in 2008 and 2010 is forecasted to be worse than 2009.
Libraries in Ohio are facing 2 cuts.
The first cut which we have felt all year is the reduction of money that libraries receive from the state. This continues to fall due to the shape of the economy.
The second cut was the reduction in the percentage of money we receive. Libraries are to receive 2.22% of the General Revenue Fund but Strickland’s budget now reduces this percentage to 1.97%
Due to these major funding cuts our library board and director have enacted these changes.
LIBRARY HOURS REDUCED the library is now open Monday-Wednesday 11-8, Thursday & Friday 11-5 and Saturday 11-3
STAFF HOURS REDUCED 1 part-time position was reduced 5 hours per week in August
1 casual position was reduced 5 hours per week in August
FULL TIME STAFF Benefits for the 4 full time staff, which includes the director, were reduced in August, employees now pay
35% of their medical insurance premium. Dental and vision insurance were dropped.
Full time staff hours will be reduced 2.5 hours per week beginning in September.
The director and fiscal officer’s salaries will be reduced to their 2008 salary.
STAFF HOURS CUT TOTAL 20 HOURS PER WEEK
OTHER CUTS The materials budget for books, magazines, dvds, etc. will be reduced by 60% effective immediately.
Fines were increased along with the cost for copies. The maximum amount a patron may owe was
also changed from $5.00 to $2.50 before their library card is stopped.
Library newsletters will no longer be mailed , copies are available at the desk.
The twice a month cleaning service was dropped and staff will now be responsible for the sweeping and
dusting of the library. Staff have been cleaning the restrooms for the past few years.
We will continue to strive to offer our patrons quality services and programming during these difficult times.