COLUMBUS — Ohio’s public libraries could soon face dramatic funding cuts under the Ohio House’s draft of the state’s two-year operating budget, which eliminates the main source of state financial support for libraries and replaces it with a new funding model.
Library advocates say the change could devastate local library systems, particularly after a $27 million cut in 2024 that reduced funding to levels not seen since the late 1990s—despite modern libraries playing a far greater role in their communities today.
Gov. Mike DeWine had proposed increasing the Public Library Fund from 1.7% to 1.75% of the state’s General Revenue Fund tax receipts. But the House rejected that plan, opting instead to establish a new direct General Revenue Fund appropriation, managed by the Ohio Office of Budget and Management.
The distribution of funds would be based on county population under a new formula, a change that the Ohio Library Council says could reduce library funding by more than $100 million over the two-year budget cycle compared to DeWine’s plan.
According to the Council, 39 counties would see funding cuts starting as early as July 1, the day the new budget is set to take effect.
Ohio’s public libraries have long been more than just book lenders. They’ve evolved to meet growing community needs—from broadband internet access to job training, food assistance, and help with taxes and employment.
Despite this expanded role, the Public Library Fund has gradually been reduced over the decades. Many libraries have had to seek additional support from local property tax levies to keep services running.
In addition to funding changes, the House draft includes a controversial new provision requiring public libraries to segregate materials related to sexual orientation or gender identity or expression in sections not easily visible to minors.
Ohio’s public libraries also face uncertainty at the federal level. Staff at the Institute for Museum and Library Services—which helps fund the State Library of Ohio—were recently placed on administrative leave.
The Ohio Senate has yet to release its own version of the state budget. The final version will be shaped through negotiations between the House and Senate before it’s sent to Gov. DeWine for approval.
Library leaders and advocates say they plan to fight the changes and push for restoration of funding as the legislative process continues.
