Post on 23-Dec-2015
Recession and the Public Library
Howard Rosenbaumhrosenba@indiana.edu
August 12, 2009
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
Recession and the Public Library
I. Introduction
• Hard times and the paradox of recessions
II. Addressing the paradox
• Challenges and opportunities
• Libraries as civic centers
III. Taking action
• Making the case
• Doing more with less
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
I. Introduction
media.mcclatchydc.com/smedia/2008/04/25/12/261-042508pett.slideshow_main.prod_affiliate.91.jpgnn.com/
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
I. Introduction
blog.prospect.org/blog/ezraklein/six_recessions.gif
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
www.bls.gov/opub/ted/
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
Recession in Tippecanoe County
5/28/09
The Kirby Risk operation in Lafayette has announced its third round of job cuts this year
The Lafayette Journal and Courier reports 34 people have been let go in the latest round of reductions
The wiring harness and cable manufacturing operation eliminated 80 positions in February and another 40
approximately one month later
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
6/30/09
Recession spurs more volunteers in Lafayette
The Greater Lafayette Volunteer Bureau says it has seen nearly 35% more volunteers so far this year compared to last year
Volunteer services coordinator Samantha Dummel says some people have been laid off and want to stay busy
A volunteer services director with the Tippecanoe County American Red Cross says volunteering can help people land a new job
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
Tippecanoe County: Despite the recession one type of business is rising to the top
Small bakeries in the area continue to whip up dollars.
Many businesses are just scraping by, but bakeries like Mammaw’s in Brookston say earning money during the recession is frosting on the cake
Tippecanoe County bucks state trend in home sales for June 2009 - Lafayette Journal and Courier
A report released Thursday by the Indiana Association of Realtors shows 217 existing single-family homes were sold last month - an 11.9% increase over the 194 houses sold in June 2008
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
Hard times and the dilemma of recession
Effects are widespread, particularly in our part of the country
This creates an interesting paradox
I. Introduction
static.howstuffworks.com/gif/recession-down.gif
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
Paradox: public libraries and economic downturns
The economy contracted 1.9% from the FQ ‘07 to FQ ’08
The previous largest drop was 0.8%, the Commerce Department said (July ‘09)
GDP has shrunk 3.9% in ’08, indicating the worst slump since the Great Depression
Consumer spending, which accounts for 70% of the economy, decreased 1.8% in FQ ‘08 from the same period in ‘07, exceeding the prior estimate of a 1.5% drop
www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aNivTjr852TI
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
So what? Well…
The downward spiral of recession affects state and municipal governments
Many state and local governments have serious revenue shortfalls
This is caused by reductions in available Federal money (hence the stimulus package)
Also reduced sales, business and property taxes
Do localities cut spending or engage in revenue raising activities (or both)?
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
A recent study find that expenditure reductions are far more common than revenue raising strategies (similar to those of the private sector)
Across-the-board cuts are more popular than deep programmatic cuts or abolishment of programs
There is a perception that cuts during a recession don’t have to be as deep because shortfalls are temporary
But cities, counties, school districts, and public libraries react differently to the same fiscal stimulus
They differ in their functional responsibilities, revenue raising powers, and revenue reliance patternsMacManus, S.A. (2008). Budget Battles: Strategies of Local Government Officers during Recession. Journal of Urban Affairs 15(3) 293-307.
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
So in our state, the situation is grim (but not as bad as it is in other states)
The updated forecast of Indiana state revenues, for FY09, 10 and 11 predicts a large shortfall
Revenues will fall short of the pessimistic December forecast by an added $831 million for the three years
This is on top of a predicted 1.1 billion shortfall
Main reason is reduced revenues (by as much as 15%)
A bottom line effect is that local governments will be feeling the effects of this shortfall
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
What is happening in this recession?
According to John Rettig, people are visiting their local public libraries more often and checking out items with greater frequency
ALA’s 2008 State of America’s Libraries Report: Americans visited their libraries nearly 1.3 billion times and checked out more than 2 billion items in the past year
This is an increase of more than 10% in both checked out items and library visits, compared the last downturn in 2001www.ala.org/ala/newspresscenter/news/pressreleases2008/august2008/RettigEconomy.cfm
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
Public libraries boom as economy grinds - Terry Oblander July 29, 2008 21:57PM
Books and other items are flowing out public libraries in record numbers as the price of gas goes up and the economy sours
Librarians throughout Northeast Ohio report seeing more people coming through their doors and leaving with more books, movies and CDs than everblog.cleveland.com/metro/2008/07/public_libraries_boom_as_econo.html
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
As times get hard, people turn to public libraries for a wide range of reasons and purposes
As people’s buying power shrinks, they seek employment, complete their education or upgrade their skills
They rely on public libraries for vital information
Job opportunities, career planning and training, small business management, literacy programs and
computer skills development
However, as state and local revenues shrink, library budgets shrink as wellwww.redwinebuzz.com/winesooth/wp-content/uploads/2008/10/paradox.jpg
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
Here it is:
They are coming in droves and want to do more and interesting things
~at the same time~
You have less money to provide resources and services
The question is what to do about it
What is the response of public librarians in an economic downturn?
I. Introduction
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
I. Introduction
• Hard times and the paradox of recessions
II. Addressing the paradox
• Challenges and opportunities
• Libraries as civic centers
III. Taking action
• Making the case
• Doing more with less
Recession and the Public Library
II. Addressing the paradox
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
II. Addressing the paradox
www.tomfishburne.com/.a/6a00e008c45151883401053642824c970b-450wi
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
The paradox can be addressed in a number of ways
You can cut back on resources
This involves making difficult decisions about the collection
You can cut back on personnel
These are also very difficult decisions
You can cut back on hours
Close on evenings and weekends
Have people working shorter days
These are unsatisfactory for many reasons
II. Addressing the paradox
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
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II. Addressing the paradox
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
The position that paradox can be resolved through cutbacks brings with it unintended consequences
Once cuts are made, temporary has a way of turning into permanent
Recessions will end, and a library with reduced resources, personnel and services will be at a disadvantage in the community
It is more difficult for public institutions to rebuild (compared to the private sector)
The potential loss of public support and trust is a threat that should be taken seriously in planning and
strategizing
II. Addressing the paradox
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
Let’s think instead about the challenges and opportunities presented by this economic downturn
Since August 08, more than 300 articles on the increased use of public libraries in tough economic times have been published in the US
According to a recent Harris poll, 75% of Americanshave a public library card, the highest number since the ALA began keeping records in 1990
On Orange County, CA, libraries report increases in use because of the public's renewed appreciation for free
entertainment as well as the need for career help and job searching
II. Addressing the paradox
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
II. Addressing the paradox
During a recession, people have less money to spend on books
Also, the cost of books, particularly textbooks, continues to rise
Access to free books at the public library becomes even more important
As people look to trim household expenses, access to library services provides convenient alternatives
Free public internet access and wireless draw people to the library
DVDs, CDs and games provide entertainment alternatives
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
II. Addressing the paradox
The public library is the main option that many have for financial advice and information to secure their and their families’ futures
Public libraries can provide unique services tailored to meet the needs of their communities through this economic crisis
This includes free on-site financial education classes for adults that include investor education, information on tax preparation
It can include access to expensive financial journals and periodicals and assistance with financial aid applications
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
II. Addressing the paradox
Programming and outreach
You can provide residents with guidance (including sessions with career advisers), career training and workshops,
Make available job-search resources and connections with outside agencies that offer training and job placement
Patron attendance at the Millington, Tenn. Public Library has doubled for free adult programs in education, small business development and job networking
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
II. Addressing the paradox
“Quite a few more people are showing up at the libraries with laptops, and we hear that people are canceling their Internet service and coming to get on the county’s Wi-Fi instead,” said Laurie Hayes, library spokesman (Anne Arundel County)
At some branches, librarians are struggling to find enough electrical outlets for all the laptops
Librarians are helping unemployed workers set up e-mail accounts and submit job applications online
Bradley, M. (2009). Public libraries…the new old life boats of a sinking economy!www.scaledown.ca/2009/02/23/public-librariesthe-new-old-life-boats-of-a-sinking-economy/
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
II. Addressing the paradox
What does this mean?
Libraries are emerging as new town squares
Librarians represent a newly emerging force for placemaking
Libraries are more than resource centers for their communities
Many librarians are now pushing to turn their libraries into civic centers that foster senses of community and offer a unique gathering places
The library can become both virtual and literal town squares for their neighborhoods and downtowns
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
II. Addressing the paradox
Why is this possible now?
In times of economic hardship, Americans turn to – and depend on – public libraries and librarians
Libraries are part of the solution when a community is struggling economically
They are information equalizers
They can expand their functions beyond providing entertainment to providing critical information services to their communities
People of all ages and backgrounds can find and freely use a range of resources, and make use of librarians’
expertise
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
II. Addressing the paradox
One example of the work leading to placemaking
As more and more people look for work, libraries can be a center for job-search related activities
They can level the playing field for job seekers
Only 44 of the top 100 U.S. retailers accepted in-store paper applications in 2006- down from 68% in 2004
Many patrons turn to library computers and Internet access to search for employment listings and apply for jobs online
They turn to librarians for help typing and posting resumes, applications and cover letters and opening email accounts
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
II. Addressing the paradox
Libraries help bridge the divide between those who have access to information and those who do not
Families making less than $15,000 annually are two to three times more likely to rely on library computers than those earning more than $75,000
Nearly 73% of libraries are their communities’ only source of free computer and Internet access
This rises to 82% in rural areas
A 2006 ALA poll found that 92% of respondents expect libraries to be needed in the future, despite the increased availability of information on the Internet
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
I. Introduction
• Hard times and the paradox of recessions
II. Addressing the paradox
• Challenges and opportunities
• Libraries as civic centers
III. Taking action
• Making the case
• Doing more with less
Recession and the Public Library
III. Taking action
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
When considering the public librarians’ response to an economic downturn, action can proceed along two paths
The first is patron-focused (outward looking)
This involves is a hard look at the range of resources and services that you currently offer
Compare this to a list of resources and services that you would realistically like to offer
Simple to say, hard to do
The second is focused on decision makers and others with influence
There is an argument to be carefully constructed and made
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Community needs assessment
A way of gauging opinions, assumptions, needs, key issues, and/or assets within a defined community
Identify community needs, concerns and issues
Determine what various constituencies want, what problems they see, how they think an organization can help
Determine the extent to which needs are met, unmet, have changed
Understand the position of an organization in a community
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Community demographics: attempt to identify populations in the community who are underserved
Determine the resources and services that could help
Service gaps: identify the range of existing services
Determine the accessibility of each service
Can an individual receive the service when he or she needs?
To what extent is the service is culturally responsive?
Can these services be ranked?www.ncstac.org/content/materials/CommunityNeedsAssessment.pdf
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Stakeholder analysis: who has influence over the provision of these and other services
Who are the key decision makers
Barriers to providing services: identify the major barriers that prevent people from receiving services
Determine reasons for under-utilization of services
Organization of services and funding: how is the current system is organized
Identify strategic ways to participate in the provision of existing and new resources and services
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
How it might be done
Community assessment tools
Focus group interview
Public issues forum
Secondary data analysis
Community survey questionnaire
Interviews with key stakeholders
Asset mapping
Human, associational, institutional, local business, outside resources
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
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Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
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Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Making the case: why?
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Faces Falling Budget, Plans Advocacy, Changes - Lynn Blumenstein -- Library Journal, 8/11/2009
Facing a decrease in Regional Asset District (RAD) sales tax collections, the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh may see a loss or consolidation of branch locations as well as reduction in services, though a new campaign aims to increase support
CLP is mostly funded by a .5 percent portion of the tax but June and July proceeds were the lowest since the RAD tax was implemented in 1994, CLP director Barbara Mistick told LJ.
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Making the case: more
Administrators estimate that expenses for the system will begin to exceed revenues beginning in 2010
The deficit is expected continue to grow to more than $6 million by 2014
CLP already implemented $2 million in cuts this year, said Mistick
Hours at the main library were reduced and departments were consolidated
At mid-year, CLP reduced its pension contributionwww.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6675993.html
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Milwaukee Begins to “Rethink Libraries for the 21st Century” - Norman Oder -- Library Journal, 8/4/2009
The the Milwaukee Public Library is faced with budget challenges that make the current system unsustainable
They have begun a series of community meetings asking for input on “Rethinking Libraries for the 21st Century”
Needing to update collections, services, and buildings, MPL already has drawn on a telephone survey, focus group sessions, and a community visioning group to present four configurations for its branch systemwww.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6674697.html
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
The configurations include mixed-use libraries that would share a building with retail or residential facilities but would be smaller than the current 12 branches
The first mixed-use library is already on the way, involving a housing development
The public wants more hours, parking, meeting rooms, technology, and space to work
They preferred a configuration with a smaller number of full-service libraries (62.5%) rather than many limited-
service libraries (26.8%), but that could change
A majority (63.4%) said they prefer a stand-alone library, while 20.4% said they favored a library located in
another facility
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Making the case
1. Develop and clearly define the message
Elevator pitch
Work into conversation and public statements
Investing in libraries is an investment in education and lifelong learning
Libraries are among the most effective of all public services, serving more than 2/3 of the public with
less than 2% of all tax dollars
Public libraries are a bargain - the average cost to the taxpayer for access to library resources is $31 a year, the cost of one hardcover book.
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Return on investment examples:
Seattle: visits to the public library increase tourism
A 1% increase yields $1 billion in new economic activity statewide over 25 years
Maryland: 90% say public libraries are a good investment
More than 40% think of public libraries as an economic anchor, potentially attracting good businesses
Florida: for every dollar of public support spent on public libraries, wages increase by $12.66, and return $6.54
South Carolina: the total direct and indirect return on investment for every $1 spent on public libraries is $4.48 - nearly 350%
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
2. Target Your Audiences
Focusing on those who can help you reach your goal saves time, energy and resources
Key decision-makers: university or school administrators, Boards of Ed, the city council or county commission, state and federal legislators
Those with influence over these groups: the media, other officials (e.g., the mayor, school superintendent), community/school/campus leaders, and voters
Target those who are most likely to be supportive
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
3. Identify communication strategies to deliver the message effectively
The right strategies save time and money, and increase the reach and effectiveness of the message
For example, one-on-one is the most time consuming, but it is also the most powerful
Having a network of library advocates ready and willing to speak out is invaluable
Use mass media to reach large numbers of people
Editorial endorsements carry weight with legislators and the public
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
In addition to identifying strategies, your communication plan should include
A schedule for the number of contacts
The number and timing of telephone calls to key leaders
The schedule of news releases and public service announcements
Timing of placement of op-ed pieces, radio and TV interviews
Descriptions of strategic use of email, the web, nand social media
Dates of presentations to key groups
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
4. Designate Spokespeople
There should be a clear understanding of who speaks for the library and when
Spokespeople should be dynamic and confident whether dealing with the media or the public
They know the message and are skilled at delivering it
They can answer hard questions and give sound bites for print and broadcast
While the main spokesperson on policy is generally the library director or board president, other spokespeople may be identified for particular issues or campaigns
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
5. Dealing with controversy...
Anticipate and prepare for dealing with organized opposition or other issues that might arise
Make sure you have all the facts
Respond quickly but don’t overreact
Prepare a communication plan and work it
Focus on the solution, not the problem
Explain how the library is addressing the issue or concern but leave legal implications to your lawyer
Use every opportunity to deliver your key message
Try not to be defensive
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Anticipate tough questions
Why should I lend support to my local library? Isn’t that the Government’s responsibility?
Hasn’t library use declined due to the Internet?
How are libraries helping in the recovery?
How are libraries saving us money?
Is there a library funding crisis?
Are libraries a good investment?
How will stimulus funding be allocated?
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Why should I lend support to my local library? Isn’t that the Government’s responsibility?
Everyone should support their local library
Only a small portion of funding (0.5%) comes from the federal government, yet public libraries have
important social roles and responsibilities to their communities, especially in tough economic times
They are part of the solution when a community is struggling economically
From free access to books and online resources for families to library business centers that support entrepreneurship and retraining, libraries support lifelong learning
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Hasn’t library use declined due to the Internet?
No, we go to school, public and academic libraries 50% more often than we go to the movies
Library use is increasing and 68% of US adults have public library cards
The average user takes out more than seven books a year and also borrow DVDs, learn new computer skills, conduct job searches, and participate in the activities of local and community organizations
Internet access is a popular attractor
Librarians offer their expertise teaching people to use computing and the Internet effectively
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
How are libraries helping in the recovery?
Libraries help level the playing field for job seekers
Many patrons use library computers and Internet access to find work, apply for jobs online, type resumes and cover letters and open email accounts
Many libraries design and offer programs tailored to meet local community economic needs
These include sessions with career advisers, training and workshops in resume writing and interviewing, job-search resources, and connections with outside agencies that offer training and job placement
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
How are libraries saving us money?
During times of economic downturn, libraries see more visits and circulation activity because people cut back
on entertainment
People can check out books, DVDs, CDs, games, for free, use databases and download audio books
They can use the net for free
They can take advantage of library programming for children and young adults
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Is there a library funding crisis?
Yes, when the economy is down, library use is up
Unfortunately, tight city and state budgets are closing library doors and reducing access when it’s needed most
Increased foreclosures rates and fewer home sales are pulling down local property-tax revenues, which many public library systems depend on in their budgets
National League of Cities: a 3.6% decline in property tax revenues and decline in sales tax receipts and income tax revenues will affect city budgets until 2010
To make up for shortfalls, libraries cut back on hours or close neighborhood branches
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Are libraries a good investment?
The Indiana Business Research Center. (2008). The Economic Impact of Libraries in Indiana, 4
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Libraries are a good value
The direct economic benefits that communities receive from libraries are significantly greater than the cost to operate the libraries
Indiana communities received $2.38 in direct economic benefits for each dollar of cost.
Public library salaries and expenditures generate an additional $216 million in economic activity in Indiana
Public libraries account for almost 9,000 jobs in Indiana:
Nearly 6,900 employed by the libraries themselves
Approximately 2,000 additional jobs in industries that support libraries and their staff
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
To strengthen public libraries’ roles in their communities’ economies:
1. Implement a strategic program to expand business and economic development focus
2. Enhance outreach to the business community
3. Expand business and economic development services
4. Refine and expand library-use data collection and reporting
5. Assist them in developing benefit-cost analyses
6. Encourage them to aggressively promote their economic significance
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
How will stimulus funding be allocated?
We’d like to see funding used to keep libraries open during the hours when people need them most
Also to keep libraries staffed with employees who can help the public use the Internet to look for work, build their resumes, and develop skills for a 21st century job.
Use funding to sustain and expand services to help people from every walk of life deal with our current economic situation
Libraries are among the most effective of all public services, serving more than 2/3 of the public with less than 2% of all tax dollars
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
Millions use public libraries each year, but without adequate support, the resources and services may not be there when needed
Due to recent economic downturn, many libraries are being forced to do more with less
Libraries in almost every state have been affected by state funding cuts leading to a lot of hard choices
Think about how many people turn to us for job searches, free Internet access, health care information and resources for education and career development
People’s ability to get information shouldn't depend on their ability to pay for it
Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
III. Taking action
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Rosenbaum: Recession and the Public LibrarySchool of Library and Information Science @ Indiana University
Recession and the Public Library
Howard Rosenbaumhrosenba@indiana.edu
August 12, 2009
www.slis.indiana.edu/hrosenba/www/Pres/tipp09/tipp09.pptx