For Immediate Release
May 26, 2010
Contact: Nathan Flood
717-787-4420
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A Conversation with Senator Brubaker

Brubaker Supports Efforts to Update Pennsylvania Library Code

Public libraries are a vital element of our communities, offering not only a wealth of knowledge and information to students and community residents, but also many valuable literacy and educational programs for citizens of all ages. Libraries often serve as the cornerstone of many communities, and they play an important role in hosting a wide range of community events. I have had an opportunity to tour a number of libraries throughout our region. We are fortunate to have some top-notch facilities and a number of dedicated individuals serving our communities in our local libraries, and two of these facilities were featured on one of my recent TV shows.

The programs and services offered at our local libraries are governed by the Pennsylvania Library Code. When Pennsylvania’s Library Code was signed into law in 1961, it was widely praised by state and national library advocates and served as a model for other states. However, while this law has served the Commonwealth well for the past 50 years, the Library Code has not been thoroughly reviewed since its adoption. It is important to ensure that this law is modernized to make the most of the funding the state offers for libraries.

I am cosponsoring a resolution in the Senate that would help to identify and address some of the most serious challenges facing our public library system. Senate Resolution 343 would require the Joint State Government Commission to review the Library Code and the current library structure, including the formula we use to fund libraries. The final report from the Commission and its recommendations will be due by November 30. I expect the results of this study to help lay the groundwork for a comprehensive update of the Library Code in the future.

Since the state will be facing another difficult budget year with a deficit that could exceed $1 billion, it is vital to ensure that we maximize every dollar the state spends. I am hopeful that this study will ensure that every dollar we invest in our library system is put to the best possible use.

While many libraries have faced funding challenges in the past several years, demand for library services is continuing to grow. According to the Pennsylvania Library Association, visits to the state's 474 public libraries were up 11 percent in 2009 compared to 2008, circulation of books and videos was up 9 percent, and in-library computer use was up 19 percent. The increased demand for services and significant changes in how the public accesses information due to new technology make it even more important to ensure that our Library Code is modernized and updated.

I would encourage district residents to learn more about our local libraries by visiting the multimedia page of my website at senatorbrubaker.com. A recent TV show highlighted some of the programs and services offered at the Lititz Public Library and the East Lancaster County Library in New Holland. I would also encourage all district residents to visit their local library to learn more about the programs and services that are offered by libraries in our local communities.