Debunk The Myths
Americans are using their public library more than ever before, but overall funding is down. And many libraries have been forced to cut hours, programs and staff, and even close their doors indefinitely. You can help.
The busier the library, the more money it receives.
Unfortunately, library funding is not based on use or demand. Most libraries work on annual budgets based mainly on city or county allocations, or property tax allocations.
The federal government funds U.S. public libraries.
Actually, the majority of library budgets come from local sources, in most cases as much as 80 percent, and federal sources make up less than 20 cents per capita annual operating revenue.
I’m already funding the library by paying my late fees and purchasing items at book sales.
Late fees and book sale dollars provide a very modest contribution to libraries and support replacement of materials lost or items not returned. Fees and fines are not sufficient to support operating or program activities.
Every public library in the U.S. is funded in the same way.
Even though all public libraries are funded by some combination of local, state and federal dollars, the mix is unique. To learn more about how your library is funded, contact your local library.
Libraries use private donations for extras.
Some do, but many libraries across the U.S. report that they are also starting to use non-tax revenue, such as donations, to help pay for critical budget items such as staff salaries and collections.
If I do not vote in support of a library operating levy or referendum, other funding from the state or federal government will make up the difference for my library.
When a library or library system loses a local operating levy or referendum, it can mean cuts in programs, staffing and collections, or closing its doors. In the majority of cases, there is no mechanism for state or federal funding to supplement local support.
