Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed the state’s two-year budget bill today, officially enacting significant changes to how public libraries are funded. The new law moves away from the long-standing model that allocated 1.7% of the state’s General Revenue Fund (GRF) to libraries. Instead, libraries will receive fixed dollar amounts—$490 million in fiscal year 2026 and $500 million in fiscal year 2027.
What’s Changing?
Until now, public library funding in Ohio has been tied to a percentage of the state’s GRF. This allowed library funding to grow alongside state revenue. The newly signed law replaces that system with a fixed appropriation. Supporters of the change argue that it offers more stability and predictability, helping libraries plan their budgets without worrying about economic fluctuations.
However, library advocates say the new system could function as a funding cut over time, especially if inflation or state revenues grow faster than the set amounts. They warn that the shift removes the automatic connection to revenue growth and could lead to decreased support in the long run.
Additional Provisions
The budget also includes deductions from the Public Library Fund (PLF) to pay for statewide library services, which reduces the amount of money going directly to local libraries.
Another point of concern is a provision affecting the placement of materials related to sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. Libraries may be required to move these materials to separate locations, potentially limiting access.
Governor DeWine vetoed a related item that would have required some materials to be locked away from children. He stated that the state’s existing obscenity laws already provide the necessary protections.
Local Levies Could Be Affected
The budget bill also includes language that may impact local library levies—voter-approved property tax measures used to raise money for individual library systems. While the exact effects remain to be seen, some fear it could make passing or renewing these levies more difficult.
Mixed Reactions
Supporters of the changes say the fixed funding provides a more reliable framework for state budgeting and argue that the allocated amounts remain close to current funding levels.
Critics, including the Ohio Library Council, argue the law could weaken public libraries in the long term. They are especially concerned about the loss of revenue growth, the impact on local levies, and the potential restrictions on access to materials. The Council has voiced strong opposition, saying the changes may undercut libraries’ ability to serve their communities.
With the governor’s signature, the new funding model and other provisions are now law and will take effect in the upcoming fiscal year.
