1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

This budget proposal represents a damaging attack on public libraries in Ohio. Slashing over $100 million in funding and changing the funding model would devastate library services, particularly in rural areas that rely heavily on the Public Library Fund. Libraries are vital community hubs that promote learning, literacy, and access to information for all. Cutting their budgets so drastically undermines these essential roles. The provisions restricting access to LGBTQ+ materials and codifying unscientific views on gender identity reveal an ideological agenda that has no place in determining library funding and operations. Libraries have a duty to serve all members of their communities without discrimination. Forcing the removal or segregation of LGBTQ+ books is a clear violation of intellectual freedom principles. Shortening the terms of library trustees also threatens local control over libraries in favor of state-level political interference. This could enable the removal of trustees who prioritize serving their full communities, including LGBTQ+ patrons. I urge you to reject these harmful provisions that will cripple Ohio's exemplary public library system. Libraries strengthen communities through free access to information, educational resources, and diverse perspectives. This proposal endangers those roles to an unacceptable degree. Please protect robust funding and local governance for Ohio's public libraries.