California Governor Okays $18 Million
More for Public Libraries
California Gov. Gray Davis approved more than $56 million in state aid to public libraries statewide on June 29, an $18-million increase over last year’s appropriation for the Public Library Foundation.
In signing legislation authorizing the hike, Davis noted that he had reduced it from the $20-million increase passed by the legislature, according to a news release sent to members of the California Library Association electronic discussion list by CLA lobbyist Mike Dillon.
“More attention was paid to libraries this year in the budget discussions than at any time in my 20 years representing the California Library Association,” Dillon told the June 28 Sacramento Bee in anticipation of the governor’s approval.
Applauding the increased support, CLA Interim Manager Christie Braziel told American Libraries that the PLF needs $70 million annually to reach full funding, which it has never achieved since it was established in 1983.
Posted July 5, 1999.
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