Libraries Need
State Support

The greater Randolph area, like many communities throughout Vermont, is fortunate to have a thriving public library in its midst. Public libraries like our own Kimball Library are great equalizers: they provide local citizens of all ages and economic status with free access to a multitude of publications, programs, and services.

Libraries and library programs help preschoolers develop language skills, enhance classroom lessons for schoolchildren, promote literacy at all levels, and function as a community gathering place. With all costs and benefits weighed, the Vermont Department of Libraries estimates that the return on community investment for every $1 spent on state libraries is an impressive $7.14!

Surprisingly, Vermont is one of only eight states that do not provide direct financial support for public libraries. The National Center for Educational Statistics reports that, while Vermont ranks 19th in the United States for the number of public library visits per capita and second in the use of library Internet facilities, it ranks 32nd in total per capita library operating income and last in the availability of Internet terminals per 5,000 state residents.

Contrary to what some may argue, demands for library services are actually increasing in Vermont: Between 1998 and 2005, the number of items borrowed from Vermont public libraries increased by 14%, while the number of visits to public libraries increased by 53%. In 2005, over three million people visited Vermont libraries.

The Vermont Library Association is seeking to introduce state library funding in Vermont by asking for an appropriation of $1.6 million of state funds to be administered by the Department of Libraries. This amount would provide Kimball and each of the state’s 139 eligible public libraries with an additional 10% of their individual annual operating budgets, helping to keep up with ever-increasing resource demands.

I encourage all community members to think about how your local library has enhanced your life and to please voice your support of this initiative by contacting our state representatives. For more information regarding this proposal, please visit the Vermont Library Association website at www.vermontlibraries.org

Chris Lesinski

Board of Trustees

Kimball Public Library