State funding for public libraries in jeopardy
State funding for public libraries is in peril in the new budget proposed by the governor's office, and Missouri librarians have visited lawmakers in recent weeks to tell them what’s at stake.
Libraries use state funds for books and other materials. In some districts, lack of money means making choices between buying materials for library users, providing public computers or staying open during hours people need them.
Librarians are hoping that state lawmakers are able to add additional funding for libraries in the final budget that is passed by the General Assembly.
State aid for all Missouri libraries was slightly over $3.5 million in fiscal year 2015. That provided 50 cents per person, but the state appropriation in fiscal year 2016 plummeted to only 13 cents per person. Sadly, the fiscal 2017 budget recommendations by statewide officials includes the same level of appropriation for public libraries – 13 cents per person.
It gets worse. If state aid dips much further, libraries including yours may not be able to get federal technology grants that require a state match.
It’s an issue your library leaders will continue to discuss with our elected officials. Library users can do that, too.
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Since Microsoft introduced the Windows 10 operating system in 2015, demand for how-to classes at the Library’s Edge Community Technology Center has soared, says Edge coordinator Krissy Sinor. Edge staff responded with Windows 10 classes, but the response has been so strong that classes have filled up within days of opening registration.
Meanwhile, attendance at Windows 8.1 classes has dropped dramatically, Sinor says. She’s not abandoning Windows 8.1 classes, but there is a schedule change.
The March 4 Windows 8.1 class is now Learning Windows 10, instead, to help meet demand. Registration for the March 4 class will begin Friday. Interested adults may register by calling 417-837-5011.
You can also watch a good tutorial for both Windows 10 and 8.1 through Lynda.com. Call 837-5011 for tutorial sessions or visit thelibrary.org/Lynda.
Kathleen O’Dell is community relations director of the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She can be reached at email@example.com.