Illinois libraries are struggling to cope with an unprecedented increase in usage at the same time that funding for libraries is being reduced.

The FY10 budget, passed by the Illinois General Assembly in July, substantially cut state General Revenue funding for grants to public libraries, school libraries, and regional library systems.

We commend the recent Daily Herald editorial which captured the essential roles of public libraries by stating that, "Libraries are a vital and valuable resource for communities in troubled times, providing job-hunting and skill-building resources, developing reading skills for kids whose parents no longer have the budget for tutors, serving up cultural events without an admission fee and creating a gathering place for people in the community."

Libraries are vital to healthy and productive communities. They deliver crucial services to people seeking to help themselves, their families, and their neighborhoods.

No additional funding cuts should be made to libraries and when the economy improves library funding should be increased.

Su Erickson

President

Board of Directors

Dupage Library System

Geneva