Local public libraries could be forced to cut hours, lay off staff and close buildings if state legislators approve Gov. Ted Strickland’s proposed $2.4 billion in spending cuts, which include a $112 million cut to Ohio’s 251 library systems.

The cuts are being proposed as Ohio is facing a $3.2 billion budget deficit amid declining tax revenues.

The impact to the Elyria Public Library System will be $590,000 this year and $1.2 million in anticipated funding in 2010.

Library Director Janet Stoffer described the proposed cuts as devastating.

“Our library would look like it did 16 years ago, when we were just one building and a bookmobile,” Stoffer said. “We have done so much in 16 years and have grown the library to a point of pride, but all that could be erased if these cuts materialize.”

The proposed cut in state funding would erase the work of library officials, who campaigned successfully in May to pass a 1.9-mill replacement levy for operating expenses in hopes of keeping the system’s finances stable for the next five years.

“On May 5, the voters of Elyria and LaGrange passed operating levies to help offset expected state cuts in funding … and now, to receive this latest proposal from the governor is almost unbelievable,” Stoffer said.

Stoffer said patrons would see visible cuts including the system only having 15 computers available for public use, one children’s department, no outreach programming to local schools and a reduction in the number of story times offered.

And that would be in addition to cuts to staffing, materials and other services.

“We know it’s not up to us to tell state legislators how to balance the budget, but people need library services now more than ever,” she said.

For Dana Daniels of Elyria, the Washington Avenue branch is not just a place for her to organize her work papers, but is also a place of escape. She dreads the thought that the library could cut back.

“I come here with my daughter and she uses the computers,” she said. “We have one at home but it’s different – they have educational games and she gets to meet a lot of other kids, which sparks her interest in other things. We can’t lose these libraries, as it is there is nothing for kids to do in Elyria, they already closed everything.”

At 12, Davion Walker of Elyria could easily be outside getting into trouble during his summer break. Instead, he said he comes to the library almost every day, taking with him nine to 10 books at a time when he leaves.

“I read everything – graphic novels, mystery and drama,” he said. “If they closed this place or cut the hours, I think it would really be sucky. It would be bad.”

Lorain Public Library System Director Joanne Eldridge said library use is surging in step with unemployment as those seeking benefits use public computers and resources to apply for help as well as look for new jobs.

It’s not uncommon for people who cannot afford Internet service or the latest books and movies to turn to the library as an alternative.

“I’m happy to see everyone has rediscovered their local library,” she said. “That’s why this is sad to me. We are essential and indispensable to the community. To have this happen is just like having the rug pulled out from under your feet.”

Lorain’s system operates six branches and a bookmobile in five cities. In total, the proposed cut would mean a loss of $558,000 this years and another $1.13 million in 2010 for the Lorain libraries.

The system receives 40 percent of its funding from the state and uses it as operating expenses. Five operating levies make up the remainder of the $8.2 million budget.

Surviving such a funding loss and continuing at current capacity will be impossible, Eldridge said.

“I think we would have to make some tough decision on cutting hours, services and limiting materials. It would be just devastating,” Eldridge said.

Smaller library systems, which receive little if any local support, could feel the proposed cut much deeper.

“While we are not a large library, we are critical to many people south of state Route 20 in Lorain County and northern Ashland County,” said Janet Hollingsworth, director of the Herrick Memorial Library in Wellington in an e-mailed statement. “Not all of our business can be put into measurable outcomes such as materials circulated or programs presented. Library staff is busy assisting the unemployed file for unemployment, providing research assistance, genealogy assistance, career counseling, computer training, Internet access, financial literacy and health information.”

The Ohio General Assembly Conference Committee likely will make its decision about Strickland’s proposal this week. In advance of such a vote, library officials are asking those who enjoy library services to immediately contact their state representatives.

“I would urge all of our library patrons and supporters to contact their state legislators and strongly protest this proposal,” said William McFadden, president of the Elyria Public Library System’s board. “In this economy, it is vital that our libraries stay open and maintain services for our citizens.”

Contact Lisa Roberson at 329-7121 or lroberson@chroniclet.com.

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