State Reduces Library Funding, But Governor Blocks Censorship Provision

Pickerington Public Library sees record usage and rising demand—but faces reduced state support in 2026.

July 3, 2025
By Rachel Scofield

Governor Mike DeWine’s newly signed state budget brings both relief and concern for Ohio’s public libraries. While a controversial provision requiring libraries to separate materials based on vague content definitions was vetoed, the budget still includes a significant reduction in library funding—changes that will impact Pickerington Public Library (PPL) as soon as next year.

A $25 million cut to the Public Library Fund (PLF) will reduce total state support from $504.6 million in Fiscal Year 2025 to $479.7 million in Fiscal Year 2026. Nearly half—47%—of Pickerington Public Library’s operating budget comes from the PLF.

“This is state funding that supports our daily operations, staffing, and services for the community,” PPL Director Tony Howard said. “Cuts will directly impact our ability to maintain current service levels. That could mean fewer new materials, delayed facility improvements, and strain on programs our community depends on.”

 

Demand for Services Is Surging

The library saw 208,000 visits in 2024, a 6.5% increase from the previous year. Participation in library programs and events rose 10% in 2024, which Howard sees as a reflection of the library’s connection to community interests. One of the most dramatic increases was in homework help, which served 2,300 children in 2024—a 197% increase over the previous year.

“In my opinion, that number is too low,” Howard said. “There are even more kids in our community who could benefit if we had the resources.”

Both Pickerington branches also provide healthy afterschool snacks, a small but crucial offering that supports academic success.

“With young adults, if they’re hungry, their concentration and behavior will not be where they need to be,” Howard noted.

    

 

How the Community Can Help

Howard stressed that community support will be essential as libraries navigate funding reductions.

“State funding reduces the burden on local taxpayers while allowing us to support statewide initiatives like workforce development, digital literacy, and early childhood education,” he said. “We’re incredibly grateful for the support we receive, but ongoing investment is essential.”

Ways to support Pickerington Public Library:

Censorship Proposal Vetoed

The governor’s line-item vetoed a provision in the budget that would have required libraries to segregate materials related to sexual orientation or gender identity.

In a statement, DeWine described the proposed restrictions as “vague”. He further stated that systems already exist to protect children from content that their parents might deem inappropriate.

“In Ohio, we have strong laws on obscenity and material harmful to juveniles, and the DeWineTressel Administration expects those laws to be enforced,” the Governor said “Therefore, a veto of this item is in the public interest.”The Ohio Library Council (OLC) praised the move, emphasizing that libraries follow well-established collection policies.

“We appreciate the Governor’s decision to veto this provision,” Howard said. “Public libraries are committed to equitable access while respecting the role of parents and caregivers. This veto protects intellectual freedom and prevents us from being forced into unnecessary operational burdens.”