On April 11, representatives from area libraries traveled to Columbus for the Ohio Library Council’s Legislative Day. They were joined by public library supporters from across the state to discuss the life-changing work of libraries and advocate for widespread access to essential services and lifelong learning.
Library supporters met with Senator Matt Huffman and Representative Keith Faber to discuss ways that libraries are helping the community with services and programs such as local trivia nights, technology training, hotspot lending, summer reading, and so much more. Libraries have become vital community centers and it is important to update representatives on their return on investment.
Eric Lochtefeld, Technology Specialist at the Mercer County District Library
“Providing service to the community has always been the focus of the library,. Libraries level the playing field for people of any age who seek information and access to technologies to improve their quality of life.”
This event falls within National Library week, April 8-14, a time to highlight the value of libraries. Ohio’s public libraries are some of the busiest in the nation. Ohio has the highest library use per capita in the United States. This is attributed to the exceptional services and programs that libraries provide to all Ohioans. Libraries aren’t just places to borrow books or study—they’re also creative and engaging community centers where people can collaborate using new technologies and develop their skills and passions.
For more information, visit the Mercer County District Library online at MercerLibrary.org.