Columbus Metropolitan Library Local Levy on November 2 Ballot

Link to October 4 Columbus Dispatch article, "Library needs voters' pat on the back, too".

Excerpt: After being named national Library of the Year by Library Journal in May, the Columbus Metropolitan Library has been feeling the love.

A more-critical gauge of approval will be determined Nov. 2 when Franklin County voters decide how much they value their system of 20 branches, two bookmobiles and assorted programs.

Library officials say failure at the polls would mean drastic cuts. And they can't rely on state funding alone. Since 2008, the library has lost more than $8 million from the state, with more cuts looming.

Funding "can't just be from tax dollars anymore," library director Pat Losinski said. "We've got to be seeking other sources."

In addition to state and local taxes, "the library has been entrepreneurial in trying to find multiple ways to augment traditional funding."

Related articles:
CML levy campaign:  Keep our library strong.  (9/10/2010)
CML going to voters for renewal levy in November.  (1/30/2010)