The Ohio Library Council issued a press release today indicating, “New statewide research shows overwhelming bipartisan support for Ohio’s public libraries and township governments, with voters saying these services are essential to everyday life.”
The Report went on to say,
“Libraries support children and families through early literacy programs, tutoring, and afterschool spaces. They strengthen the workforce by helping residents search for jobs, build skills, and access career training. They bridge the digital divide with free Wi-Fi, computers, and technology assistance. And they deliver everyday services such as printing, notary work, and access to government resources. According to the research (executive summary attached):
- 92% of Ohioans say public libraries are important to their local community, and rank among the highest rated local services
- 69% recall a specific time their library helped them personally
- 87% say they get their money’s worth from library services for the taxes they pay
- 71% believe libraries provide many of the most basic services people rely on every day
- Nearly half of Ohio voters say they or a family member used a library service in the past month, and nearly two-thirds have done so within the past few months”
Local Library leaders echoed the value of the report:
Kim Garret, Executive Director of Warren-Trumbull County Public Library said, “This research confirms what we see every day here in our libraries — residents don’t view libraries as extras; they see them as essential to strong, thriving communities. From early literacy and homework help to workforce development support, digital access, and the everyday services our valley families rely on, our libraries are woven into the fabric of daily life. The data also makes something very clear: when people understand that these services are funded locally, they support keeping those decisions close to home. Protecting local funding ensures libraries can remain responsive and accountable to the unique needs of Mahoning Valley communities, while continuing to deliver meaningful economic and social returns right here in our region.”
According to Zak Kozberg, Chief Stakeholder Relations Officer at The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County, “This poll proves what our staff and patrons already know; public libraries are valued and vital to our communities. Ohio's libraries are more than dusty books on a shelf. We provide invaluable services to our friends and neighbors, and these numbers tell that story.”
The OLC Poll Executive Summary can be found here
The polling results can be found here
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The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) has served the Mahoning Valley since 1880 when the Youngstown Library Association was officially created. With 14 branches across Mahoning County, including Main Library in downtown Youngstown, PLYMC is well known for its signature services and programs like Summer Discovery and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. PLYMC serves our communities by preparing children for kindergarten, promoting early literacy, assisting job seekers, connecting Valley residents to technology, and providing resources for small businesses.
The Warren-Trumbull County Public Library (W-TCPL) serves the Trumbull County community through
libraries in Brookfield, Cortland, Eastwood Mall, Howland, Liberty, and Warren; a Bookmobile; Pop-Up
Library; and Library-By-Mail service. Digital learning resources and content including e-books and moviesand music can be streamed or downloaded and enjoyed on a smartphone or tablet at no cost with a library card through dedicated apps or through the library website at www.wtcpl.org.