Q. Why is this levy necessary for the Library?
A. Library revenue has decreased, while library use has steadily increased.
To continue the Library’s tradition of providing quality materials, excellent service and innovative programs, the Library needs a consistent, dependable source of income. Since 2000, the population in our service area has increased 62%. Circulation is up 18% from 2008. Internet usage has increased 109% so far this year. These increases have unfortunately coincided with a decrease in funding the Library receives from the state.
Our revenues have steadily fallen since 2001. In 2009 the Library will receive $184,000 less than in 2001. Compared to 2008, the Library received $146,635 less in 2009 and will receive $206,882 less in 2010.
Q. These are tough times, why can’t the Library “tighten its belt?”
A. We already have.
Despite decreased state funding, the Library has worked to maintain a balanced operating budget and operate within anticipated revenue. The Library board made the conscious decision to deal with state funding cuts internally, without reducing hours, cutting services or eliminating programs until this year.
Our Purchased & Contracted Services expenditures have increased 39% since 2001. These are maintenance and utility costs largely out of our control. In response, the Library has decreased its Materials budget by 18% and Supplies by 12% since 2001.
Even with such careful stewardship, the Library is now using cash reserves to make up the difference between annual revenue and expenses. Our cash reserves will be depleted in two years. The Library will need additional operating revenue by then to simply maintain the reduced level of service we deliver now.
Q. What are the specifics of the levy?
A. It is a 1 mill operating levy for five years.
This levy will be used for operating expenses and will be for a five year period. The Library has not sought an operating levy in its 92 year history. The owner of a $100,000 home would pay $30.62 annually for the Library. That’s less than 60 cents per week, per household. The levy issue will be on the November 3rd ballot and voters in the Mary L. Cook Public Library service area may vote on the issue. This area includes Waynesville, Wayne Township, Harveysburg, Corwin, and parts of Clearcreek, Massie, and Washington Townships.
The levy is estimated to provide $564,865 per year, although County Auditor Nick Nelson has cautioned this number could be reduced significantly due to property value reassessments. With the expected continued decline in state funding, this levy will provide a more dependable source of income.
Q. What will the Library do if the levy passes?
A. We plan to restore hours, service, and programming and will continue to evolve library service in response to emerging societal and technological trends. Specifically, we will:
§ Provide DVD rentals at no cost to our patrons.
§ Continue to provide wireless network access and support advanced technologies for patrons.
§ Increase computer services and training opportunities for all residents.
§ Continue to provide a safe environment for children, teens, and adults.
§ Evaluate and improve services as needed to make the Library more user-friendly and efficient.
Q. What will the Library do if the levy fails?
A. We will work with the community to determine what actions to take to best serve residents in the Mary L. Cook Public Library service area.
If the Library does not secure additional operating money by 2011, when most of the cash reserves will be exhausted, we will have no choice but to further cut staff, reduce hours, close additional days, and eliminate programs. The possibility of closure is not out of the question.
*For more information, contact library director Linda Swartzel at (513) 897-4826 or swartzli@oplin.org.
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