Pennsylvania libraries celebrate $5 million boost in state budget

Pennsylvania public libraries are receiving a long-awaited boost in state funding to expand programs, digital access and resources.

The new state budget provides a $5 million increase in funding for public libraries.

Sen. Lindsey M. Williams D-Allegheny, said the investment underscores how essential libraries are to communities. She often holds office hours in local branches and recently joined Northland Library’s “Tea and Stitches” event, where neighbors craft and connect.

Williams argued libraries provide a much-needed “third space” for people to gather and build community relationships.

“The library has so many more events and resources and things for the community, and there’s such gems, in my district, of services that they provide,” Williams explained. “I wanted to be able to both celebrate this increase and continue to show why it’s important that we keep doing that and keep investing in our public libraries.”

Pennsylvania’s libraries range from large city systems in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to small rural branches which may be the only local resource for miles. They provide Wi-Fi, early-learning programs, workforce help and device lending for residents without internet or technology at home.

Librarians nationwide are getting a boost this month as the Trump administration quietly restored $160 million in federal library funding through the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Williams pointed out when a library is within walking distance, it can connect a community to many other resources. She added it is a warm, safe, inviting place for everyone, and in underserved communities, it is important people have a safe place to ask questions.

“If you have a question, ask a librarian,” Williams urged. “You can go in and ask that librarian just about anything and they will help you figure it out, whether it’s you need help filing your taxes, whether you need help with your property tax, rent rebate, whether you need help finding a book.”

Williams noted in January, she plans to visit the Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians, a free resource offering Braille and other accessible media for people with low vision, blindness or physical disabilities. Many people with disabilities use library services. The visit is part of a larger effort to raise awareness about statewide services.

Related: Shapiro administration announces $45 million for high-speed internet projects at local schools, libraries and community centers