we’re working to ensure that everyone feels welcome and we’re listening to what people need. 85% of public libraries are now fine free (link opens in a new window). Partnerships and collaborations are leading to innovative programming like Access to Justice (link opens in a new window). Libraries are safe spaces where people can be who they are, explore interests and hobbies, and connect to other support services in the community.
Library Legislation – Librarians are defending our right to read
According to the American Library Association (link opens in a new window) (ALA), there were 45 book challenges in Massachusetts in 2022 affecting 57 titles. That’s more than the past 9 years (2013-2021) combined which totaled 38 challenges. In 2023, attempts to ban books in the Commonwealth continued with more than 2,000 complaints and informal challenges and 38 formal challenges in public libraries. School libraries have been impacted as well. Bills S2528 (link opens in a new window) and H4229 (link opens in a new window) will help ensure diverse voices stay in our collections and give everyone the opportunity to learn from different perspectives.
Funding Priority: 7000-9508 Massachusetts Center for the Book (link opens in a new window). While other states are banning books like Flamer by Mike Curato and A Scatter of Light by Malinda Lo, these titles are recipients of awards from Massachusetts Center for the Book and are featured along with their “Must Read” titles promoted through libraries.
Funding Priority: 7000-9101 Board of Library Commissioners’ (link opens in a new window) staff support libraries facing book challenges and work with them to develop policies that protect collections and staff.
Broadband access is just the start of digital equity
20% of respondents to a recent Massachusetts Broadband Institute (link opens in a new window) survey said they don’t have broadband at home; 21% said they don’t have a laptop or desktop at home*. Over 1 in 3 respondents reported having at least some difficulty paying for their internet.** Thousands of people access the internet through libraries every day and libraries lend laptops and WI-FI hotspots. Librarians also teach people how to use technology. From helping someone get their first email address, apply for a job online, navigate government forms, access telehealth and more, librarians ensure that no one is left behind in the digital world.
Funding Priority: 7000-9501 State Aid to Public Libraries (link opens in a new window) is local aid for libraries. Libraries often use State Aid funding to upgrade computers or purchase new technology.
Funding Priority: 7000-9101 Board of Library Commissioners’ (link opens in a new window) staff educate librarians on the application process and the benefits of federal E-rate funds to improve and expand library connectivity.
Library Legislation – Publisher practices restrict eBook access
Publishers often charge libraries triple what a consumer pays for the same eBook with more restrictive licenses. Networks have doubled what they spend (link opens in a new window) on eBooks and yet residents may face wait times as long as six months. Libraries simply can’t afford to keep pace with demand. The Massachusetts Library Association is working with Representative Ruth Balser on Bill H.3239 (link opens in a new window) which leans on the Commonwealth’s strong consumer protection law to require publishers use fair practices when doing business with libraries. For many people, eBooks and audiobooks aren’t just a preference, they’re a necessity. Students with dyslexia depend on audiobooks. For people with disabilities, eBooks keep them reading. For those with mobility issues or who are homebound, eContent keeps them connected to the world around them.
Funding Priority: 7000-9501 State Aid to Public Libraries (link opens in a new window) is local aid for libraries. Spending on high priced popular eBooks often limits the expansion of the rest of the collection. Libraries can use State Aid to supplement their materials budget.
Funding Priority: 7000-9101 Board of Library Commissioners’ (link opens in a new window) staff work with Automated Networks to support the statewide eContent lending program.
A trusted space for immigrants
Libraries serve as gateways to citizenship, English language learning, and civic engagement. For example, Worcester Public Library’s (link opens in a new window) program offers language learning, books and resources in 13 languages, and assistance with citizenship. Framingham Public Library’s “Finding Your Way” (link opens in a new window) helps with everything from housing to transportation. The Watertown Free Public Library is at the center of the Multicultural Fest (link opens in a new window). At libraries, immigrant families connect with neighbors so that relationships form, creating communities where diversity is celebrated.
Funding Priority: 7000-9508 Massachusetts Center for the Book (link opens in a new window) offers family literacy programming in gateway cities.
Funding Priority: 7000-9101 Board of Library Commissioners’ (link opens in a new window) staff work with libraries on grants that enable programming for immigrants including, ESOL and citizenship classes.
*MBI survey respondents in Northeast Massachusetts;
**MBI survey respondents statewide
Line Item Number and Name | FY2023 | FY2024 | Proposed Increase | FY2025 Request |
---|---|---|---|---|
7000-9101 Board of Library Commissioners | $1,731,586 | $1,904,745 | $190,475 | $2,095,220 |
7000-9401 Regional Libraries Local Aid | $14,516,000 | $16,717,600 | $835,880 | $17,553,480 |
7000-9402 Talking Book Program Worcester | $521,569 | $678,040 | $33,902 | $711,942 |
7000-9406 Talking Book Program (Perkins) Watertown | $2,969,554 | $3,860,420 | $193,021 | $4,053,441 |
7000-9501 Public Libraries Local Aid | $16,000,000 | $17,600,000 | $2,400,000 | $20,000,000 |
7000-9506 Technology & Resource Sharing | $4,744,293 | $6,167,581 | $308,379 | $6,475,960 |
7000-9508 Center for the Book | $400,000 | $420,000 | $80,000 | $500,000 |
Totals | $40,883,002 | $47,348,386 | $4,041,657 | $51,390,043 |