Special Libraries Association's Government Information Division Weighs In

The blog sponsored by the SLA's Government Information Division has a supportive post titled "SLA on PA State and Other Library Cuts".

It is citing the SLA Public Policy Connections Blog, 23 February 2009. And it pretty much tells our story:

News that Pennsylvania Governor Rendell’s 2009/2010 budget cut would cut library funds did not come as a huge surprise; budget cuts are sweeping the globe. The current recession is affecting businesses and individuals on every level, from mega conglomerates down to the self-employed business owners working at a desk that doubles as a breakfast table.

What may come as a surprise to many, however, is the proposed 50% budget cut to the Bureau of the State Library. Information about library services, under the Department of Education, begins at E14.20 of the proposed Pennsylvania 2009/2010 Budget. What is currently unknown is who and what will be affected by the proposed budget cut from 4.8 million to 2.4 million.

SLA is following this issue, and would like to hear from you as well. Please contact Doug Newcomb, Chief Policy Officer, with any news that you might have regarding this or other major budget cuts affecting libraries.

I'd suggest readers here also flood Newcomb with your stories about the effects of this budget proposal. The more information he has, the better advocate he and the Special Libraries Association can be.