July 5, 2021

Wisconsin Library Association Thanks Wisconsin Legislature for Supporting Public Libraries

The Wisconsin Library Association (WLA) applauds the Wisconsin Legislature’s continued support of state aids to Wisconsin’s 381 public library locations.

During Joint Finance Committee deliberations on May 27, its members approved a significant investment in public library services to support new technology resources and enhanced services in the areas of workforce development and lifelong learning. The additional $2.5 million in 2021-2022 and $4 million in 2022-2023 state aid will enable regional public library systems to enhance the foundational infrastructure delivering additional resources to local libraries and their communities.

“Our members’ testimony at Joint Finance Committee hearings held around the state in April highlighted the tremendous difference that local public libraries make to citizens seeking reliable Internet access, online assistance for job creators and jobseekers, and lifelong learning programs from early childhood literacy to senior memory cafes,” said WLA President Sherry Machones. “We thank all sixteen members of the Joint Finance Committee for their recognition of and commitment to quality public library services and the full legislature for their affirmation.”