Pictured: Library representatives from Mercer County District Libraries, Coldwater Public Library, Auglaize County Libraries, Shelby County Libraries with State Representative Susan Manchester.
CELINA – On April 9, representatives from area libraries traveled to Columbus for the Ohio Library Council’s Library Legislative Day. They joined public library supporters from across the state to advocate for library funding and discuss the life-changing work of libraries.
Representatives from Mercer County District Library met with State Representative Susan Manchester and State Senator Matt Huffman to discuss how the library is helping the Grand Lake community with services and programs such as public internet, mobile WiFi hotspots, job search assistance, life-long learning opportunities, summer educational programs, and premium research databases.
Elizabeth Muether, Mercer County District Library Director
“Libraries are a resource that Ohioans increasingly turn to for a wide variety of services. From early literacy to workforce development, libraries provide programs and services to Ohioans of all ages, and they do so in a cost effective manner. For every $1 spent by Ohio’s public libraries, we return $5 in economic value to Ohioans.”
This event was held in conjunction with National Library week, April 8-13, a time to highlight the value of libraries. With over 8.4 million registered borrowers, Ohio’s public libraries have the highest use per capita in the nation. Ohio also has the highest percentage of registered borrowers, highest number of visits, and highest circulation. This success is dependent on the strong partnership between the State of Ohio and local library systems.
In addition to meeting with members of the Ohio General Assembly, the Mercer County District Library is celebrating National Library Week by partnering with local restaurants to provide discounts. Another example of strong libraries fostering strong communities.
For more information, visit the Mercer County District Library at 303 N. Main St. Celina, or visit the library’s website at MercerLibrary.org.
Mercer County Outlook 