Earlier this week, 21 News reported on the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) discussing how proposed state budget cuts would affect the library.

Now, the library is calling on the public to let their elected officials know how important the library is to them.

"This slash and burn version of the budget would reduce state funding for Ohio's public libraries by more than $100 million over two years. Additionally, the new distribution formula would cut funding to public libraries in 39 counties beginning July 1 including a devastating loss of 12.8% for [PLYMC]," said PLYMC Director and CEO Aimee Fifarek.

Fifarek says that equates to over $1.3 million that could support everything from new early learning materials for toddlers to special delivery services designed to deliver library materials to seniors and those with mobility issues.

"As you can see, these cuts will be painful to look at, and they put your favorite programs and services in jeopardy. This shortsighted plan for our state's public libraries cannot go unchecked," Fifarek said.

The new budget would fund public libraries across the state based off of how many people live in their county. Some libraries would gain money but others would lose a significant amount. 

Fifarek said if they do lose the money they would have to make cuts across the board - reducing staff, hours, materials and programs.

“There is going to be an impact and there's nothing we can do about that except fight against this cut as loudly and strongly as we can,” Fifarek said.

Library supporters are urged to call local representatives including State Representatives Lauren McNally and Tex Fischer and Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman to voice their concerns about these services being lost.

Supporters can also stop by any Mahoning County Library and fill out an ‘I Love my library because' paper with their reason on why they want the funding to stay how it is. The papers will be brought to Columbus for the Library Legislative Day of Action on Tuesday, April 8 and presented to legislatures. 

The house will vote on the budget next week and it will be finalized by the end of June.