On the November 8, 2011 Ballot

We’re proud of the fact that we provide 21st century library services with a hometown approach at the London Public Library.  We’re also proud of the fact that the community has always been supportive of the library since the day it opened in 1905. 

Today, the library is in need of your support more than ever. Many of you have heard that public libraries in Ohio are once again facing cuts (6.5 %) in their state funding over the next two years.  Unfortunately, that additional percentage will be added to the roughly 25% reduction in cuts we’ve had to deal with over the last three years..   As you can imagine, we’ve had to make adjustments in our spending over the last few years. 

In spite of the cuts, we will continue to provide quality library services, as long as we have the budgetary means to do so that is why we are replacing our current operating levy of 1.2 mills with the same millage (no increase) on the November 8, 2011 primary ballot. We need your support to maintain our services —let’s keep our community library strong!

Because of the operating levy—the library is able to take its materials and programs to those who are physically unable to visit the building, as well as setup satellite collections at various organizations around the community such as the Madison County Free Health Clinic. 
It’s your library—keep it strong!

Because of the operating levy– the library is able to provide great programs like the Summer Concert Series - a community favorite, as well as many of our entertaining and educational programs for community members of all ages.  Youth Services saw a 6% increase in circulation of its materials while Adult Services saw a 4% increase in adult participation in programming in 2010.  It’s your library—keep it strong!

Because of the operating levy—the library is able to provide you with the latest releases in books, audiobooks, magazines, DVDs and technology services.   Whether it’s for school, business or simply entertainment, our community is asking for and checking out more each year, (227,040 items in 2010, a 8% increase in the last three years).  It’s your library—keep it strong!

Because of the operating levy—the library is able to hire professional staff and keep its doors open at a level that meets the growing demands of our community.  It’s your library—keep it strong!

What are funding levels now?  What will the levy cost?

How is the Library funded?
The Library receives 52% of its budget from the State of Ohio, about $440,000.  The remaining 42% comes from its current 1.2 mill operating levy the residents of London approved in 2007.  Another 6% comes from limited investments and library fines and fees.  The current operating levy will expire in 2012.

What will the levy cost the average homeowner?
Because the levy will be replacing the current 1.2 mills there will be no new millage.  The replacement will cost a homeowner $35.39 per home valuated at $100,000 per year.  This is the same cost voters approved in 2007.

Think about the cost of $ 35.39.
Your $3.06 a month supports 75% of the library’s materials budget, which includes new books, DVDS, audiobooks, magazines and more.  Your $3.06 a month also supports staff members who not only help you checkout library items but assists you with reference, children’s and outreach services.  Your $3.06 a month also provides maintenance of the library’s historical Carnegie building and additions.  That’s a lot for only $3.06 a month!

What is the length of the levy?
The levy will be in place for 5 years, which has been the traditional time frame of the past three operating levies.

Your support helps us provide all of this and more!

• Books, audiobooks and digital books
• Magazines and newspapers
• Movies, documentaries
• Video Games
• Full-text databases for research, homework, lifelong learning (interviewing, resume writing)
• Story Times for preschoolers and children
• Computer training
• Book Clubs
• Family Movie and Game Nights
• Homework assistance
• Job search assistance through print and online resources
• Computers for general Internet use
• Word, Excel and other productivity software for resumes, homework assignments, business communications
• Meeting rooms for community groups, school visits and library events.
• Accept Ohio’s Golden Buckeye applications.
• Administer GED practice test.
• Services to visually impaired readers
• Provide research assistance.
• Voter Registration Information
• Compile book collections for teachers to use in classrooms.
• Provide resources for homeschoolers.
• Wireless access to the Internet.
• Obtain materials from other libraries interlibrary loan, consortia and many other means.
• Summer Reading programs that keep children reading through the summer months.
• Deliver library materials to homebound and institutionalized residents including those in retirement centers, hospitals, nursing homes and business/organizations.
• A venue to exhibit local, regional, and national materials.