The Saint Paul Public Library plays a key role in the educational and cultural survival of the City. You can play a key role in supporting the Saint Paul Public Library.
The City of Saint Paul is facing serious budget difficulties as a result of the loss of Local Government Aid (LGA) from the State of Minnesota. For the Saint Paul Public Library, this lost LGA may result in a 14% ($2 million) cut to its 2009 budget, closure of one branch library, cuts to hours in all libraries, and a $400,000 cut to the books and materials budget. Cuts to the books and materials budget could create gaps in the Library’s collection that might never be refilled.

Cuts in funding for the Library will hurt Saint Paul’s children:

* 1.3 million Children’s items were checked out of the library last year – more than 25 items for every child in the city.
* 75,000 children and young adult visitors attend public library programs last year – more than 12% of the population under 18.
* A critical link to the education of our City’s children from birth to school-age and beyond, the Library provides story times, summer reading programs, homework help, and access to college centers.
* The Library serves youth, families and adults 12 months a year, in the morning, afternoon, evening and weekends.

As an important economic development tool for the City of Saint Paul, the Library:

* Bridges the digital divide by providing all residents of the city with access to the Internet, and offers free computer training to seniors and other adults.
* Offers adults access to job and career assistance, as well as mortgage foreclosure prevention counseling.
* Enhances the overall quality of life and promotes the cultural environment in the community.
* Promotes the well-being of individuals and assists them in becoming more productive in their jobs and in their personal lives.
* Serves as a catalyst for public- and private-sector investment.
* Collaborates with other City departments and nonprofit organizations to provide educational and cultural programs.