Thanks to the reader who forwarded along an article in USA Today about the vital role libraries play during economic down-turns (read it here).
According to the article 22 states have cut funding for Libraries this year (PA’s budget has not yet been approved), when 67% of libraries reported a critical use of their facility was assisting job seekers.
Many companies require online applications and when people are out of work, often the internet is a cost that is eliminated. A recent study cited in the article notes that eight of ten libraries nationally have at least a single person, per day, waiting for an internet terminal to open. Most are seeking employment.
Loss of revenue also means less hours, which puts further strain on making resources available to all those trying to use them.
Let’s hope our legislature gets it right and doesn’t slash funding for this vital community resource.
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