Show your support for Issue 4 campaign by requesting a
yard sign today.


Help spread the word about the importance of Issue 4 on the
November ballot.
 
Make a secure online donation
today to support the Issue 4 Campaign.
 
         
 

 

 
 

   
 


Send an email to your friends about the need to keep our library strong
 

 
 
   


Stay informed about Issue 4 with email updates
   
 







 

 


 
    Who is eligible to vote on Issue 4?
Registered voters in our defined service area can vote on Issue 4.  Here is a link to our district map. If you aren't sure, you can click here to view your sample ballot. If Issue 4 appears on your ballot., you can vote for us!


Are libraries still significant in the computer age?

Now more than ever, residents are turning to the library as a source of books, reference, internet access, children’s services, job searches, homework assistance and other resources they need daily. The library’s usage is increasing significantly year after year and Columbus Metro continues to play a vital role in the lives of Greater Columbus area residents.

What is CML doing to cut costs?
To remain fiscally responsible, Columbus Metro has suspended pay increases, reduced collections, deferred maintenance, cut hours and other costs to manage through 2010. However, to keep library service and facilities near the level the public needs, additional funding is needed.

What services does the library provide?
CML offers many vital services such as books, tools for reference, reading programs for children and families, homework help for students, internet access for job searches, help in navigating the web and other needed services for people of all ages.

Where does the Library’s funding come from?
The majority of CML’s funding comes from local tax support and the state budget. Unfortunately cuts in state funding and reductions made may compromise the services offered by Columbus Metropolitan Library.



What will happen if that funding isn’t increased?
Without a replacement issue, the library would lose nearly half its budget. That would force it to close half the branches, make huge cuts in staff, services, books, materials, internet access and basic maintenance. Services such as outreach to child care and senior centers would be eliminated.

How does CML compare to other library systems in the State?
The library usage is increasing sharply year after year and its quality rating is consistently among the top in the state and the nation.

How have the State cuts affected our library?
Columbus Metropolitan Library has not increased its 2.2 mill levy in 24 years. It is the library's only local tax support — 45% of the budget and state funding was cut $8 million. These cuts have put the library in a bind, and have affected the services we offer to the community.

When is the last time CML asked residents for a tax increase?
Columbus Metro has not increased its only local tax support in 24 years, and has worked hard to remain responsible and accountable with its funding
.

What will Issue 4 fund?
  Issue 4 is necessary to protect the library from further cuts and will restore hours that were reduced in order to balance the budget.   It's a necessity to keep providing up-to-date reading and research materials, computers for internet access and for needed maintenance of our libraries.

 
 
 
 
HOME  |  Q&A   |    VOTE   |   VOTE    |   ENDORSE
    
               Paid for by Communities for the Library, Don McTigue, Treasurer, 550 East Walnut St., Columbus, OH 43215