In these tough economic times, Americans need their libraries more than ever. Sadly, libraries are often forgotten in times of crisis by everyone but the people who need them most. For this reason, the ALA is hosting Library Advocacy Day on June 29, 2010, on Capitol Hill.
If you can't make this event, there are still many opportunities to get involved. Please show your support for libraries the week of June 28-July 2 by participating in Virtual Library Advocacy Week. This event, which will be held in conjunction with Library Advocacy Day, will be the biggest show of library advocacy on the federal level in the history of the American Library Association. Your voice, along with over a thousand advocates rallying on Capitol Hill on the 29th, will raise awareness about the important work that libraries and librarians do on a daily basis to help kids learn to read, help people find jobs, and so much more.
A simple phone call or e-mail is all it takes. To send an e-mail, go to http://capwiz.com/ala/home/ and click on the issue you are interested in. The website will take you to a sample form letter. Customize it with stories on what your local library is doing to help people look for jobs or gain digital literacy skills as well as other programs. These examples truly matter to your elected officials.
In order to maximize our impact, when contacting your elected officials, please make the following requests:
• Fund the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) at $300 million for FY 2011. LSTA funding is distributed to states by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through population-based grants and is the only source of federal funding for public libraries.
• Fund the Improving Literacy Through School Libraries program at $100 million so that students all across the country can obtain the 21st century skills they will need to succeed in college and the workplace.
If you'd like to call, you can also call the Capitol switchboard at (202)224-3121 and ask for your member of Congress. If you aren't sure who your member is, use the Capwiz link above to find out. It's really that simple.
When you're done with your call, don't forget to tweet about your experience. Just use this hashtag: #LAD2010.
Thanks for all you do.
Kristin Murphy
ALA Washington Office
Monday, June 28, 2010
Monday, June 21, 2010
Library Advocacy Day Webinar
ALA Washington Office Webinar: Virtual Library Advocacy Day
Can't come to DC for ALA's Library Advocacy Day? Have no fear! You can participate via the web. Join us for this webinar outlining the various actions you can take from the comfort of your couch or office to support the
library community's outreach in our nation's Capitol. Together, we can make a difference!
Date: Monday, June 21, 2010
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
Register now: http://bit.ly/aMWDFS
Can't come to DC for ALA's Library Advocacy Day? Have no fear! You can participate via the web. Join us for this webinar outlining the various actions you can take from the comfort of your couch or office to support the
library community's outreach in our nation's Capitol. Together, we can make a difference!
Date: Monday, June 21, 2010
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM EDT
Register now: http://bit.ly/aMWDFS
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Library Funding Saved! - You Made the Difference! You Got It Done!
Thank You, Thank You! Thank You! - Last night (April 26), when the Budget Chairs restored funding for State Aid to Public Libraries it was because of your incredible work! The folks who receive these CapWiz messages made over 60,000 contacts in the last month! We estimate at least as many contacts were made outside of Capwiz! And thank you for your patience and good humor as we asked you time and time again to make those contacts!
This should confirm for all of us that committed people working for a good cause can make a difference!
This should confirm for all of us that committed people working for a good cause can make a difference!
State Aid - Budget Chairs Restore State Funding to Public Libraries to $21.2 Million
At midnight the House accepted a Senate offer to restore State Aid to Public Libraries to the current year level of $21.2 million. When Senate Budget Chair J. D. Alexander made the offer, he asked if "the library guy" with the signs was in the room. The library guy we all know is Paul Clark who has pretty much lived in the Capitol keeping the issue in front of legislators and the press for 6 weeks. Senator Alexander was disappointed that Paul wasn't there and said that other advocates could learn a lot from him.
There, working the issue until midnight were FLA lobbyist Chris Lyon, Small County Coalition coordinator Chris Doolan, and whole contingent from the Department of State including Secretary Kurt Browning, lobbyist Rivers Buford III, and John Boynton. This group barely left the Capitol all weekend long. Chris Doolan had a very positive impact, especially on Sunday morning. The folks from the Florida Association of Counties, and many county lobbyists have been working the issue as well. The Salter-Mitchell pr folks distributed press releases for FLA at several critical junctures. FLA's CapWiz wizard, Lisa Manners did an incredible job of keeping the message fresh and making it possible for citizens to submit over 60,000 messages in the last 6 weeks. And nothing good happens at FLA without Executive Director Faye Roberts talents and effort.
Thanks to everyone for their incredible efforts and congratulations on the wonderful success!
Charlie Parker -
There, working the issue until midnight were FLA lobbyist Chris Lyon, Small County Coalition coordinator Chris Doolan, and whole contingent from the Department of State including Secretary Kurt Browning, lobbyist Rivers Buford III, and John Boynton. This group barely left the Capitol all weekend long. Chris Doolan had a very positive impact, especially on Sunday morning. The folks from the Florida Association of Counties, and many county lobbyists have been working the issue as well. The Salter-Mitchell pr folks distributed press releases for FLA at several critical junctures. FLA's CapWiz wizard, Lisa Manners did an incredible job of keeping the message fresh and making it possible for citizens to submit over 60,000 messages in the last 6 weeks. And nothing good happens at FLA without Executive Director Faye Roberts talents and effort.
Thanks to everyone for their incredible efforts and congratulations on the wonderful success!
Charlie Parker -
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Library Funding In Jeopardy!
Library Funding in Jeopardy! Need to Make the Case that Libraries are Valuable for Florida’s Economy!
April 20, 2010 - Apologies for cross posting
The House and Senate appropriations conference process is underway and supporters of public library funding are being challenged to make the case that libraries are valuable for Florida’s economy. The House and Senate Transportation and Economic Development Conference Committee meets at 5:15 this afternoon and by then we need to reach the legislative leadership and the conferees with a positive message about how libraries support Florida’s economy.
To watch the proceedings over the web, go to the House or Senate pages.
The Situation – Last night the Senate Conferees proposed funding State Aid at the current year level of $21.2 million and the House counter offered this morning at “0.”
Action Needed: Contact the House and Senate leadership and members of the House and Senate Transportation and Economic Development Conference Committees – all of them!
The Message – Public Libraries play a critical role in the state’s economy – fund them at the current $21.2 million.
Library’s Contribution to Florida’s Economy
Library funding provides a $8.32 Return on Investment – That’s what a recent Department of State study reports.
Floridians come to libraries for technology and job search - There are over 12,999 public access computers available at Florida libraries. Floridians used these computers 21 million times in 2008, and over 2.4 million Floridians received technology instruction in libraries. And many libraries offer free wireless access! Frequent use is for job searching!
Nationally, every day 300,000 library seekers get job seeking help at Public Libraries – And Florida libraries are providing more than their share of this support. (OCLC 2010)
Floridians needing assistance applying for E-Government services and benefits are getting help from library staff, computers, and Internet service. - Library staff help the public transact their E-Government business using library computers for services including Medicare, Fla. Dept. of Children and Families, immigration, and the IRS. Library staff are important members of disaster management teams and following disasters, library computers help survivors locate family members and apply for insurance and assistance.
Families are relying on library books, cd’s and dvd’s to stretch household budgets in these challenging times.
They do this, as well as help kids learn to read, help parents and caregivers learn to be kids first teachers, and provide life-long learning.
Background- The library community knows the state budget is seriously stressed but library funding has already been cut by over a third, from $33.4 million in 2001 to $21.2 million today. $21.2 million is also the Maintenance of Effort amount the legislature needs to appropriate in order for Florida to continue receiving federal Library Services and Technology Act dollars. Florida received about $8.9 million this year.
Local funding has been deeply cut in last the 3 years and more reductions are coming in 2010-11. Many libraries report cuts exceeding 30%.
Please, Please Keep It Positive! – These folks want to fund libraries. It is our job to show them that there is positive public support so they can justify finding the dollars!
Thank you!
Senate Leadership
Senator Jeff Atwater (r) – President – Represents parts of Broward & Palm Beach Counties - atwater.jeff.web@flsenate.gov / District (561) 625-5101 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5100
Senator JD Alexander (r), Chairman, Policy and Steering Committee on Ways and Means – Represents Hardee, Highlands and parts of DeSoto, Glades, Okeechobee, Polk, and St. Lucie Counties - alexander.jd.web@flsenate.gov / District (863) 679-4847 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5044
Senator Mike Haridopolos (r) – President designate, 2011-12 - Represents parts of Brevard, Indian River, Osceola, & St. Lucie Counties – haridopolos.mike.web@flsenate.gov / District (321) 752-3131 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5056
Senate Conference Committee on Transportation and Economic Development (TED)
Senator Mike Fasano (r) - Represents parts of Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, & Pinellas Counties / fasano.mike.web@flsenate.gov / District (727) 848-5885 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5062
Senator Tony Hill (d), Vice-Chair – Represents parts of Duval, Flagler, Putnam, St. Johns, & Volusia Counties – hill.tony.web@flsenate.gov / District (904) 924-1646 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5024
Senator Alex Diaz de la Portilla (r) – Represents part of Miami-Dade County – portilla.alex.web@flsenate.gov / District (305) 643-7200 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5109
Senator Paula Dockery (r) – Represents parts of Hernando, Lake, Osceola, Polk, & Sumter Counties - dockery.paula.web@flsenate.gov /District (863) 413-2900 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5040
Senator Andy Gardiner (r) – Represents parts of Orange, Osceola, & Seminole Counties – gardiner.andy@flsenate.gov / District (407) 428-5800 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5047
Senator Chris Smith (d) – Represents parts of Broward & Palm Beach Counties – smith.chris.web@flsenate.gov / District (561) 650-6801 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5112
House Leadership
Larry Cretul (r) – Speaker – Represents parts of Alachua, Levy, & Marion Counties – larry.cretul@myfloridahouse.gov / District (352) 873-6564 / Tallahassee (850) 488-1450
Rep. Dean Cannon (r) – Represents part of Orange County – Speaker designate 2011-12 – dean.cannon@myfloridahouse.gov / District (407) 623-5740 / Tallahassee (850) 488-2742
Rep. Will Weatherford (r) – Represents parts of Hillsborough & Pasco Counties – Speaker designate 2013-14 - will.weatherford@myfloridahouse.gov / District (813) 558-5115 / Tallahassee (850) 488-5744
Rep. David Rivera (r), Chair of the Full Appropriations Council On Education & Economic Development – Represents parts of Broward, Collier, & Miami-Dade Counties – david.rivera@myfloridahouse.gov / District (305) 227-7630 / Tallahassee – (850)-488-7897
House Conference Committee on Transportation and Economic Development (TED)
Rep. Rich Glorioso (r), Chair – Parts of Hillsborough & Pasco Counties –rich.glorioso@myfloridahouse.gov / District (813) 757-9110/ Tallahassee (850) 488-0807
Rep. Audrey Gibson (d) – Represents part of Duval County – audrey.gibson@myfloridahouse.gov / District (904) 353-2180 / Tallahassee (850) 488-7417
Rep. Evan Jenne (d) – Represents part of Broward County – evan.jenne@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 321-2760 / Tallahassee (850) 488-0245
Rep. Mike Horner (r) – Represents parts of Okeechobee, Orange, Osceloa, & Polk Counties / mike.horner@myfloridahouse.gov / District (407) 943-3077 / Tallahassee (850) 488-8992
Rep. Dorothy Hukill (r) – Represents part of Volusia County – dorothy.hukill@myfloridahouse.gov / District (386) 322-5111 / Tallahassee (850) 488-6653
Dave Murzin (r) – Represents part of Escambia County – dave.murzin@myfloridahouse.gov / District (859) 494-7330 / Tallahassee (850) 488-8278
Hazelle Rogers (d) – Represents part of Broward County – hazelle.rogers@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 497-3367 / Tallahassee (850)488-8234
Rep. Robert Schenck (r) – Represents parts of Pasco, Hernando, & Sumter Counties – robert.schenck@myfloridahouse.gov / District (352) 688-5005 / Tallahassee (850) 488-6641
April 20, 2010 - Apologies for cross posting
The House and Senate appropriations conference process is underway and supporters of public library funding are being challenged to make the case that libraries are valuable for Florida’s economy. The House and Senate Transportation and Economic Development Conference Committee meets at 5:15 this afternoon and by then we need to reach the legislative leadership and the conferees with a positive message about how libraries support Florida’s economy.
To watch the proceedings over the web, go to the House or Senate pages.
The Situation – Last night the Senate Conferees proposed funding State Aid at the current year level of $21.2 million and the House counter offered this morning at “0.”
Action Needed: Contact the House and Senate leadership and members of the House and Senate Transportation and Economic Development Conference Committees – all of them!
The Message – Public Libraries play a critical role in the state’s economy – fund them at the current $21.2 million.
Library’s Contribution to Florida’s Economy
Library funding provides a $8.32 Return on Investment – That’s what a recent Department of State study reports.
Floridians come to libraries for technology and job search - There are over 12,999 public access computers available at Florida libraries. Floridians used these computers 21 million times in 2008, and over 2.4 million Floridians received technology instruction in libraries. And many libraries offer free wireless access! Frequent use is for job searching!
Nationally, every day 300,000 library seekers get job seeking help at Public Libraries – And Florida libraries are providing more than their share of this support. (OCLC 2010)
Floridians needing assistance applying for E-Government services and benefits are getting help from library staff, computers, and Internet service. - Library staff help the public transact their E-Government business using library computers for services including Medicare, Fla. Dept. of Children and Families, immigration, and the IRS. Library staff are important members of disaster management teams and following disasters, library computers help survivors locate family members and apply for insurance and assistance.
Families are relying on library books, cd’s and dvd’s to stretch household budgets in these challenging times.
They do this, as well as help kids learn to read, help parents and caregivers learn to be kids first teachers, and provide life-long learning.
Background- The library community knows the state budget is seriously stressed but library funding has already been cut by over a third, from $33.4 million in 2001 to $21.2 million today. $21.2 million is also the Maintenance of Effort amount the legislature needs to appropriate in order for Florida to continue receiving federal Library Services and Technology Act dollars. Florida received about $8.9 million this year.
Local funding has been deeply cut in last the 3 years and more reductions are coming in 2010-11. Many libraries report cuts exceeding 30%.
Please, Please Keep It Positive! – These folks want to fund libraries. It is our job to show them that there is positive public support so they can justify finding the dollars!
Thank you!
Senate Leadership
Senator Jeff Atwater (r) – President – Represents parts of Broward & Palm Beach Counties - atwater.jeff.web@flsenate.gov / District (561) 625-5101 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5100
Senator JD Alexander (r), Chairman, Policy and Steering Committee on Ways and Means – Represents Hardee, Highlands and parts of DeSoto, Glades, Okeechobee, Polk, and St. Lucie Counties - alexander.jd.web@flsenate.gov / District (863) 679-4847 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5044
Senator Mike Haridopolos (r) – President designate, 2011-12 - Represents parts of Brevard, Indian River, Osceola, & St. Lucie Counties – haridopolos.mike.web@flsenate.gov / District (321) 752-3131 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5056
Senate Conference Committee on Transportation and Economic Development (TED)
Senator Mike Fasano (r) - Represents parts of Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, & Pinellas Counties / fasano.mike.web@flsenate.gov / District (727) 848-5885 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5062
Senator Tony Hill (d), Vice-Chair – Represents parts of Duval, Flagler, Putnam, St. Johns, & Volusia Counties – hill.tony.web@flsenate.gov / District (904) 924-1646 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5024
Senator Alex Diaz de la Portilla (r) – Represents part of Miami-Dade County – portilla.alex.web@flsenate.gov / District (305) 643-7200 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5109
Senator Paula Dockery (r) – Represents parts of Hernando, Lake, Osceola, Polk, & Sumter Counties - dockery.paula.web@flsenate.gov /District (863) 413-2900 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5040
Senator Andy Gardiner (r) – Represents parts of Orange, Osceola, & Seminole Counties – gardiner.andy@flsenate.gov / District (407) 428-5800 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5047
Senator Chris Smith (d) – Represents parts of Broward & Palm Beach Counties – smith.chris.web@flsenate.gov / District (561) 650-6801 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5112
House Leadership
Larry Cretul (r) – Speaker – Represents parts of Alachua, Levy, & Marion Counties – larry.cretul@myfloridahouse.gov / District (352) 873-6564 / Tallahassee (850) 488-1450
Rep. Dean Cannon (r) – Represents part of Orange County – Speaker designate 2011-12 – dean.cannon@myfloridahouse.gov / District (407) 623-5740 / Tallahassee (850) 488-2742
Rep. Will Weatherford (r) – Represents parts of Hillsborough & Pasco Counties – Speaker designate 2013-14 - will.weatherford@myfloridahouse.gov / District (813) 558-5115 / Tallahassee (850) 488-5744
Rep. David Rivera (r), Chair of the Full Appropriations Council On Education & Economic Development – Represents parts of Broward, Collier, & Miami-Dade Counties – david.rivera@myfloridahouse.gov / District (305) 227-7630 / Tallahassee – (850)-488-7897
House Conference Committee on Transportation and Economic Development (TED)
Rep. Rich Glorioso (r), Chair – Parts of Hillsborough & Pasco Counties –rich.glorioso@myfloridahouse.gov / District (813) 757-9110/ Tallahassee (850) 488-0807
Rep. Audrey Gibson (d) – Represents part of Duval County – audrey.gibson@myfloridahouse.gov / District (904) 353-2180 / Tallahassee (850) 488-7417
Rep. Evan Jenne (d) – Represents part of Broward County – evan.jenne@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 321-2760 / Tallahassee (850) 488-0245
Rep. Mike Horner (r) – Represents parts of Okeechobee, Orange, Osceloa, & Polk Counties / mike.horner@myfloridahouse.gov / District (407) 943-3077 / Tallahassee (850) 488-8992
Rep. Dorothy Hukill (r) – Represents part of Volusia County – dorothy.hukill@myfloridahouse.gov / District (386) 322-5111 / Tallahassee (850) 488-6653
Dave Murzin (r) – Represents part of Escambia County – dave.murzin@myfloridahouse.gov / District (859) 494-7330 / Tallahassee (850) 488-8278
Hazelle Rogers (d) – Represents part of Broward County – hazelle.rogers@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 497-3367 / Tallahassee (850)488-8234
Rep. Robert Schenck (r) – Represents parts of Pasco, Hernando, & Sumter Counties – robert.schenck@myfloridahouse.gov / District (352) 688-5005 / Tallahassee (850) 488-6641
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Florida State Aid to Public LIbraries Funding Eliminated
Florida State Aid to Public Libraries Funding Eliminated in House & Senate Committees
–Mobilize Your Communities!
The House and Senate Transportation and Economic Development (TED) Appropriations Committees are both proposing to entirely eliminate State Aid to Public Libraries funding. The current amount of $21.2 million was proposed by the Dept. of State and Governor and is supported by FLA. Because $21.2 million is the Maintenance of Effort amount the state is required to provide to receive $8.4 million in federal library funds, State Aid elimination also means loss of federal funds.
Both Committees are scheduled to approve their bills soon and shortly later the House and Senate will take them to the floor for adoption.
Contacts – Keep it up until funding is restored – including over the weekend! Most legislators want to fund state aid – the more contacts they receive, the easier it is to restore!
Your Legislators – If they are not members of the House or Senate TED Committees (see attached lists), ask them to ask the House or Senate leadership (see attached) and TED Committee Chairs to restore the funding.
The Governor, House & Senate Leadership – Please contact each of them!
Your Personal Networks – Newspapers, Friends, Community Groups, Neighbors, & Influential Folks – Share this message and ask them to help!
The Message – Restore funding for State Aid to Public Libraries to the current $21.2 million. If state aid is eliminated, branches will close all over the state and library service in rural libraries will be decimated because of their reliance on state funding! Add your local stories – they are the most powerful!
Background- The library community knows the state budget is seriously stressed but library funding has already been cut by over a third, from $33.4 million in 2001 to $21.2 million today. Local funding has been deeply cut in last the 3 years and more reductions are coming in 2010-11. Many libraries report cuts exceeding 30%.
This comes at a particularly bad time for Floridians who are turning to their public libraries for help during these challenging times:
Job seekers are getting help learning about and applying for jobs.
Floridians needing assistance applying for E-Government services and benefits are getting help from library staff, computers, and Internet service.
Families are relying on library books, cd’s and dvd’s to stretch household budgets.
Families continue to rely on libraries to help children learn to read and help parents and caregivers learn to be children’s first teachers.
Please - Keep Your Message Very Positive!
Thank You!
Governor, Legislative Leadership & Key Committees
- You can also use CapWiz to Contact legislators and leaders - http://capwiz.com/ala/fl/issues/alert/?alertid=14792616&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]
Governor
Governor Charlie Crist - Charlie.Crist@MyFlorida.com / (850) 488-7146
House
House Leadership
Larry Cretul (r) – Speaker – Represents parts of Alachua, Levy, & Marion Counties – larry.cretul@myfloridahouse.gov / District (352) 873-6564 / Tallahassee (850) 488-1450
Rep. Dean Cannon (r) – Represents part of Orange County – Speaker designate 2011-12 – dean.cannon@myfloridahouse.gov / District (407) 623-5740 / Tallahassee (850) 488-2742
Rep. Will Weatherford (r) – Represents parts of Hillsborough & Pasco Counties – Speaker designate 2013-14 - will.weatherford@myfloridahouse.gov / District (813) 558-5115 / Tallahassee (850) 488-5744
Rep. David Rivera (r), Chair of the Full Appropriations Council On Education & Economic Development – Represents parts of Broward, Collier, & Miami-Dade Counties – david.rivera@myfloridahouse.gov / District (305) 227-7630 / Tallahassee – (850)-488-7897
House Transportation & Economic Development Appropriations Committee (TED)
Rep. Rich Glorioso (r), Chair – Parts of Hillsborough & Pasco Counties –rich.glorioso@myfloridahouse.gov / District (813) 757-9110/ Tallahassee (850) 488-0807
Rep. Mike Horner (r), Vice Chair – Represents parts of Okeechobee, Orange, Osceloa, & Polk Counties / mike.horner@myfloridahouse.gov / District (407) 943-3077 / Tallahassee (850) 488-8992
Rep. Evan Jenne (d), Ranking Democratic Member – Represents part of Broward County – evan.jenne@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 321-2760 / Tallahassee (850) 488-0245
Gary Aubuchon (r) – Represents parts of Charlotte & Lee Counties – gary.aubuchon@myfloridahouse.gov / District (239) 344-4900 / Tallahassee (850) 488-7433
Re. Esteban L. Bovo, Jr (r) – Represents part of Miami-Dade County – Esteban.bovo@myfloridahouse.gov / District (305) 364-3113 / Tallahassee (850) 487-2197
Rep. Jennifer Carroll (r) – Represents parts of Clay & Duval Counties –– Jennifer.carroll@myfloridahouse.gov / District (904) 573-4994 / Tallahassee (850) 488-5102
Rep. Joe Gibbons (d) – Represents part of Broward County – joe.gibbons@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 893-5006 / Tallahassee (850) 488-0145
Rep. Audrey Gibson (d) – Represents part of Duval County – audrey.gibson@myfloridahouse.gov / District (904) 353-2180 / Tallahassee (850) 488-7417
Rep. Dorothy Hukill (r) – Represents part of Volusia County – dorothy.hukill@myfloridahouse.gov / District (386) 322-5111 / Tallahassee (850) 488-6653
Dave Murzin (r) – Represents part of Escambia County – dave.murzin@myfloridahouse.gov / District (859) 494-7330 / Tallahassee (850) 488-8278
Jimmy Patronis (r) – Represents parts of Bay & Franklin Counties – jimmy.patronis@myfloridahouse.gove / District (850) 914-6300 / Tallahassee (850) 488-9696
Hazelle Rogers (d) – Represents part of Broward County – hazelle.rogers@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 497-3367 / Tallahassee (850)488-8234
Maria Sachs (d) – Represents part of Palm Beach County – maria.sachs@myfloridahouse.gov / District (561) 266-6645 / Tallahassee (850) 488-1662
Rep. Robert Schenck (r) – Represents parts of Pasco, Hernando, & Sumter Counties – robert.schenck@myfloridahouse.gov / District (352) 688-5005 / Tallahassee (850) 488-6641
Senate Leadership
Senator Jeff Atwater (r) – President – Represents parts of Broward & Palm Beach Counties - atwater.jeff.web@flsenate.gov / District (561) 625-5101 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5100
Senator JD Alexander (r), Chairman, Policy and Steering Committee on Ways and Means – Represents Hardee, Highlands and parts of DeSoto, Glades, Okeechobee, Polk, and St. Lucie Counties - alexander.jd.web@flsenate.gov / District (863) 679-4847 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5044
Senator Mike Haridopolos (r) – President designate, 2011-12 - Represents parts of Brevard, Indian River, Osceola, & St. Lucie Counties – haridopolis.mike@flsentate.gov / District (321) 752-3131 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5056
Senate Transportation & Economic Development Appropriations Committee (TED)
Senator Mike Fasano (r), Chairman – Represents parts of Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, & Pinellas Counties / fasano.mike.web@flsenate.gov / District (727) 848-5885 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5062
Senator Tony Hill (d), Vice-Chair – Represents parts of Duval, Flagler, Putnam, St. Johns, & Volusia Counties – hill.tony.web@flsenate.gov / District (904) 924-1646 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5024
Senator Alex Diaz de la Portilla (r) – Represents part of Miami-Dade County – portilla.alex.web@flsenate.gov / District (305) 643-7200 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5109
Senator Paula Dockery (r) – Represents parts of Hernando, Lake, Osceola, Polk, & Sumter Counties - dockery.paula.web@flsenate.gov /District (863) 413-2900 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5040
Senator Andy Gardiner (r) – Represents parts of Orange, Osceola, & Seminole Counties – gardiner.andy@flsenate.gov / District (407) 428-5800 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5047
Senator Chris Smith (d) – Represents parts of Broward & Palm Beach Counties – smith.chris.web@flsenate.gov / District (561) 650-6801 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5112
Faye Roberts,
Executive Director
Florida Library Association
Phone: 386-438-5795
faye.roberts@comcast.net
–Mobilize Your Communities!
The House and Senate Transportation and Economic Development (TED) Appropriations Committees are both proposing to entirely eliminate State Aid to Public Libraries funding. The current amount of $21.2 million was proposed by the Dept. of State and Governor and is supported by FLA. Because $21.2 million is the Maintenance of Effort amount the state is required to provide to receive $8.4 million in federal library funds, State Aid elimination also means loss of federal funds.
Both Committees are scheduled to approve their bills soon and shortly later the House and Senate will take them to the floor for adoption.
Contacts – Keep it up until funding is restored – including over the weekend! Most legislators want to fund state aid – the more contacts they receive, the easier it is to restore!
Your Legislators – If they are not members of the House or Senate TED Committees (see attached lists), ask them to ask the House or Senate leadership (see attached) and TED Committee Chairs to restore the funding.
The Governor, House & Senate Leadership – Please contact each of them!
Your Personal Networks – Newspapers, Friends, Community Groups, Neighbors, & Influential Folks – Share this message and ask them to help!
The Message – Restore funding for State Aid to Public Libraries to the current $21.2 million. If state aid is eliminated, branches will close all over the state and library service in rural libraries will be decimated because of their reliance on state funding! Add your local stories – they are the most powerful!
Background- The library community knows the state budget is seriously stressed but library funding has already been cut by over a third, from $33.4 million in 2001 to $21.2 million today. Local funding has been deeply cut in last the 3 years and more reductions are coming in 2010-11. Many libraries report cuts exceeding 30%.
This comes at a particularly bad time for Floridians who are turning to their public libraries for help during these challenging times:
Job seekers are getting help learning about and applying for jobs.
Floridians needing assistance applying for E-Government services and benefits are getting help from library staff, computers, and Internet service.
Families are relying on library books, cd’s and dvd’s to stretch household budgets.
Families continue to rely on libraries to help children learn to read and help parents and caregivers learn to be children’s first teachers.
Please - Keep Your Message Very Positive!
Thank You!
Governor, Legislative Leadership & Key Committees
- You can also use CapWiz to Contact legislators and leaders - http://capwiz.com/ala/fl/issues/alert/?alertid=14792616&queueid=[capwiz:queue_id]
Governor
Governor Charlie Crist - Charlie.Crist@MyFlorida.com / (850) 488-7146
House
House Leadership
Larry Cretul (r) – Speaker – Represents parts of Alachua, Levy, & Marion Counties – larry.cretul@myfloridahouse.gov / District (352) 873-6564 / Tallahassee (850) 488-1450
Rep. Dean Cannon (r) – Represents part of Orange County – Speaker designate 2011-12 – dean.cannon@myfloridahouse.gov / District (407) 623-5740 / Tallahassee (850) 488-2742
Rep. Will Weatherford (r) – Represents parts of Hillsborough & Pasco Counties – Speaker designate 2013-14 - will.weatherford@myfloridahouse.gov / District (813) 558-5115 / Tallahassee (850) 488-5744
Rep. David Rivera (r), Chair of the Full Appropriations Council On Education & Economic Development – Represents parts of Broward, Collier, & Miami-Dade Counties – david.rivera@myfloridahouse.gov / District (305) 227-7630 / Tallahassee – (850)-488-7897
House Transportation & Economic Development Appropriations Committee (TED)
Rep. Rich Glorioso (r), Chair – Parts of Hillsborough & Pasco Counties –rich.glorioso@myfloridahouse.gov / District (813) 757-9110/ Tallahassee (850) 488-0807
Rep. Mike Horner (r), Vice Chair – Represents parts of Okeechobee, Orange, Osceloa, & Polk Counties / mike.horner@myfloridahouse.gov / District (407) 943-3077 / Tallahassee (850) 488-8992
Rep. Evan Jenne (d), Ranking Democratic Member – Represents part of Broward County – evan.jenne@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 321-2760 / Tallahassee (850) 488-0245
Gary Aubuchon (r) – Represents parts of Charlotte & Lee Counties – gary.aubuchon@myfloridahouse.gov / District (239) 344-4900 / Tallahassee (850) 488-7433
Re. Esteban L. Bovo, Jr (r) – Represents part of Miami-Dade County – Esteban.bovo@myfloridahouse.gov / District (305) 364-3113 / Tallahassee (850) 487-2197
Rep. Jennifer Carroll (r) – Represents parts of Clay & Duval Counties –– Jennifer.carroll@myfloridahouse.gov / District (904) 573-4994 / Tallahassee (850) 488-5102
Rep. Joe Gibbons (d) – Represents part of Broward County – joe.gibbons@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 893-5006 / Tallahassee (850) 488-0145
Rep. Audrey Gibson (d) – Represents part of Duval County – audrey.gibson@myfloridahouse.gov / District (904) 353-2180 / Tallahassee (850) 488-7417
Rep. Dorothy Hukill (r) – Represents part of Volusia County – dorothy.hukill@myfloridahouse.gov / District (386) 322-5111 / Tallahassee (850) 488-6653
Dave Murzin (r) – Represents part of Escambia County – dave.murzin@myfloridahouse.gov / District (859) 494-7330 / Tallahassee (850) 488-8278
Jimmy Patronis (r) – Represents parts of Bay & Franklin Counties – jimmy.patronis@myfloridahouse.gove / District (850) 914-6300 / Tallahassee (850) 488-9696
Hazelle Rogers (d) – Represents part of Broward County – hazelle.rogers@myfloridahouse.gov / District (954) 497-3367 / Tallahassee (850)488-8234
Maria Sachs (d) – Represents part of Palm Beach County – maria.sachs@myfloridahouse.gov / District (561) 266-6645 / Tallahassee (850) 488-1662
Rep. Robert Schenck (r) – Represents parts of Pasco, Hernando, & Sumter Counties – robert.schenck@myfloridahouse.gov / District (352) 688-5005 / Tallahassee (850) 488-6641
Senate Leadership
Senator Jeff Atwater (r) – President – Represents parts of Broward & Palm Beach Counties - atwater.jeff.web@flsenate.gov / District (561) 625-5101 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5100
Senator JD Alexander (r), Chairman, Policy and Steering Committee on Ways and Means – Represents Hardee, Highlands and parts of DeSoto, Glades, Okeechobee, Polk, and St. Lucie Counties - alexander.jd.web@flsenate.gov / District (863) 679-4847 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5044
Senator Mike Haridopolos (r) – President designate, 2011-12 - Represents parts of Brevard, Indian River, Osceola, & St. Lucie Counties – haridopolis.mike@flsentate.gov / District (321) 752-3131 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5056
Senate Transportation & Economic Development Appropriations Committee (TED)
Senator Mike Fasano (r), Chairman – Represents parts of Citrus, Hernando, Pasco, & Pinellas Counties / fasano.mike.web@flsenate.gov / District (727) 848-5885 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5062
Senator Tony Hill (d), Vice-Chair – Represents parts of Duval, Flagler, Putnam, St. Johns, & Volusia Counties – hill.tony.web@flsenate.gov / District (904) 924-1646 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5024
Senator Alex Diaz de la Portilla (r) – Represents part of Miami-Dade County – portilla.alex.web@flsenate.gov / District (305) 643-7200 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5109
Senator Paula Dockery (r) – Represents parts of Hernando, Lake, Osceola, Polk, & Sumter Counties - dockery.paula.web@flsenate.gov /District (863) 413-2900 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5040
Senator Andy Gardiner (r) – Represents parts of Orange, Osceola, & Seminole Counties – gardiner.andy@flsenate.gov / District (407) 428-5800 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5047
Senator Chris Smith (d) – Represents parts of Broward & Palm Beach Counties – smith.chris.web@flsenate.gov / District (561) 650-6801 / Tallahassee (850) 487-5112
Faye Roberts,
Executive Director
Florida Library Association
Phone: 386-438-5795
faye.roberts@comcast.net
Monday, March 8, 2010
Library Advocacy Now!
This week and next begins critical advocacy to support libraries. We need as many members of Congress as possible to sign onto these letters for the following two programs – remember, every other group is doing the same thing we are. If we don’t advocate for libraries and library funding, the money that should be allocated to us could go to other groups who are calling in louder and higher numbers. Please call your members of Congress on the following two issues:
LSTA
Congress is currently busy drafting up the federal budget for fiscal year 2011. It has never been more important than now that Congress fully funds the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), the only annual source for federal funding to public libraries. As Congress writes next year’s budget they need to understand that dollars from the state and local levels are at an all time low and libraries can not continue to do their important work with out this funding.
There is a letter circulating around the House of Representatives urging the Appropriations Committee to include $300 million in funding through LSTA in the FY2011 budget. Please go to http://www.capwiz.com/ala/home/ to find out the name and number of your Representative and call his or her office and tell them about work your library does in the community. It is always a good idea to stress what programs and resources your library provide to help build the local economy, help kids with their homework, and so much more. After you have explained how libraries are an incredibly valuable investment, please ask your representative to sign onto the “Dear Colleague” letter supporting LSTA.
School Libraries
In his FY2011 budget, President Obama consolidated Improving Literacy Through School Libraries with five other literacy programs. This would mean that school libraries will have to directly compete with other programs to receive federal dollars under the President’s plan. However, Congress is busy drafting up their own budget for FY2011 right now, and there is no word yet if they will go along with President Obama’s recommendation of consolidation. Congress needs to hear from their constituents NOW about the important role that school libraries play in today’s schools.
Right now there is a letter circulating around the House of Representatives urging the Appropriations Committee to specifically appropriate $100 million for Improving Literacy Through School Libraries. This amount means that this program will be available to every state, rather than the current competitive grant program. Please go to http://www.capwiz.com/ala/home/ to find out the name and number of your Representative and call his or her office explaining to them how important having a school library can be in a child’s education. Please ask them to sign on to the Improving Literacy Through School Libraries “Dear Colleague.”
Once your representative or their staff confirms that they would like to sign on to the funding “Dear Colleagues,” please ask them to contact the staffers below depending on their party affiliation:
Democrat Ask them to contact Joseph Mais in Rep. Grijalva’s office and ask them to sign onto the Dear Colleague. His email address is joseph.mais@mail.house.gov and his phone number is (202) 225-2435.
Republican Ask them to contact Rachel Fenton in Rep. Vernon Ehlers’ office and sign onto the Dear Colleague. Her e-mail address is Rachel.Fenton@mail.house.gov and her phone number is (202) 225-3831.
LSTA
Congress is currently busy drafting up the federal budget for fiscal year 2011. It has never been more important than now that Congress fully funds the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), the only annual source for federal funding to public libraries. As Congress writes next year’s budget they need to understand that dollars from the state and local levels are at an all time low and libraries can not continue to do their important work with out this funding.
There is a letter circulating around the House of Representatives urging the Appropriations Committee to include $300 million in funding through LSTA in the FY2011 budget. Please go to http://www.capwiz.com/ala/home/ to find out the name and number of your Representative and call his or her office and tell them about work your library does in the community. It is always a good idea to stress what programs and resources your library provide to help build the local economy, help kids with their homework, and so much more. After you have explained how libraries are an incredibly valuable investment, please ask your representative to sign onto the “Dear Colleague” letter supporting LSTA.
School Libraries
In his FY2011 budget, President Obama consolidated Improving Literacy Through School Libraries with five other literacy programs. This would mean that school libraries will have to directly compete with other programs to receive federal dollars under the President’s plan. However, Congress is busy drafting up their own budget for FY2011 right now, and there is no word yet if they will go along with President Obama’s recommendation of consolidation. Congress needs to hear from their constituents NOW about the important role that school libraries play in today’s schools.
Right now there is a letter circulating around the House of Representatives urging the Appropriations Committee to specifically appropriate $100 million for Improving Literacy Through School Libraries. This amount means that this program will be available to every state, rather than the current competitive grant program. Please go to http://www.capwiz.com/ala/home/ to find out the name and number of your Representative and call his or her office explaining to them how important having a school library can be in a child’s education. Please ask them to sign on to the Improving Literacy Through School Libraries “Dear Colleague.”
Once your representative or their staff confirms that they would like to sign on to the funding “Dear Colleagues,” please ask them to contact the staffers below depending on their party affiliation:
Democrat Ask them to contact Joseph Mais in Rep. Grijalva’s office and ask them to sign onto the Dear Colleague. His email address is joseph.mais@mail.house.gov and his phone number is (202) 225-2435.
Republican Ask them to contact Rachel Fenton in Rep. Vernon Ehlers’ office and sign onto the Dear Colleague. Her e-mail address is Rachel.Fenton@mail.house.gov and her phone number is (202) 225-3831.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Urgent Message for Library Advocates
ALA has reports from Congressional offices that they hear from
teachers, police and firefighters every day and almost nothing from the
library community. Libraries are as essential as schools and public
safety and help the economy by helping people find jobs. Yet library
jobs are being cut - and, now, not included in this jobs bill. It is
vitally important that librarians be as vocal as these other public
employees. The reason they are getting funding in this piece of
legislation is because they are calling their congressional offices
more often and in higher numbers than we are.
Your grassroots efforts are critically important. The omission of
librarians in the jobs bill is in addition to the troubling news this
week that President Obama's budget proposal freezes the Library
Services and Technology Act (LSTA) and consolidates the school library
program with literacy programs in the Department of Education. These
cuts will lead to a loss of jobs and a loss of services that our
communities cannot afford to be without.
Please call both of your U.S. Senators to ask each of them to request
that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), Senator Richard Durbin
(D-IL), and Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND), include the hiring and
retaining of librarians in the $18 billion as well. Call the U.S.
Capital switchboard ASAP at 202.224.3121. For email addresses and
other contact information go to:
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
This bill could come up at any moment and it is critically important
that you contact your Senators' offices immediately and tell them to
push the above Senate leaders to include librarians in the jobs bill.
Don't just call once - keep calling until we succeed. Make sure to
tell your senators what your library is doing to help people find
jobs.
We cannot let this legislation pass without the inclusion of library
employees. We have no chance of getting into this legislation without
your calls and emails - and the support of all senators!!
Call the U.S. Capital switchboard ASAP at 202.224.3121. For email
addresses and other contact information go to:
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
Please act now!
teachers, police and firefighters every day and almost nothing from the
library community. Libraries are as essential as schools and public
safety and help the economy by helping people find jobs. Yet library
jobs are being cut - and, now, not included in this jobs bill. It is
vitally important that librarians be as vocal as these other public
employees. The reason they are getting funding in this piece of
legislation is because they are calling their congressional offices
more often and in higher numbers than we are.
Your grassroots efforts are critically important. The omission of
librarians in the jobs bill is in addition to the troubling news this
week that President Obama's budget proposal freezes the Library
Services and Technology Act (LSTA) and consolidates the school library
program with literacy programs in the Department of Education. These
cuts will lead to a loss of jobs and a loss of services that our
communities cannot afford to be without.
Please call both of your U.S. Senators to ask each of them to request
that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), Senator Richard Durbin
(D-IL), and Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND), include the hiring and
retaining of librarians in the $18 billion as well. Call the U.S.
Capital switchboard ASAP at 202.224.3121. For email addresses and
other contact information go to:
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
This bill could come up at any moment and it is critically important
that you contact your Senators' offices immediately and tell them to
push the above Senate leaders to include librarians in the jobs bill.
Don't just call once - keep calling until we succeed. Make sure to
tell your senators what your library is doing to help people find
jobs.
We cannot let this legislation pass without the inclusion of library
employees. We have no chance of getting into this legislation without
your calls and emails - and the support of all senators!!
Call the U.S. Capital switchboard ASAP at 202.224.3121. For email
addresses and other contact information go to:
http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
Please act now!
Monday, February 1, 2010
Be Prepared for FLA Legislative Days
The Florida library community will gather at the Capital in Tallahassee on February 16 for Library Day. The event provides the opportunity for advocates to meet with legislators and tell them about Floridians’ and their communities’ needs for library service and about library issues.
This year FLA is providing two Library Day Orientation Webinars to help advocates get up to speed about what is going on in Tallahassee and the library advocacy message. Information about Library Day plans and logistics will also be provided to ensure that participants have a positive, productive, and fun day. Choose the session that is most convenient - Tuesday, February 9, from 10 to 10:45 or Thursday, February 11 from 2 to 2:45.
Even though the regular legislative session does not begin until March 2, the legislature is already busy with committee meetings and the decision making process about library funding is underway. Participating in an Orientation Webinar will help prepare you advocate effectively for Florida libraries.
To register to attend Library Day on February 16, go to http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php
where you’ll find additional information about Library Day and the Honor Roll to support library advocacy.
If you register for either of these sessions, we will contact you with log-in information 24 to 48 hours prior to the workshop.
If you register for either of these sessions, we will contact you with log-in information 24 to 48 hours prior to the workshop.
Go to http://www.tblc.org/ws_info.php?ws=1058 to register for workshops
Thanks!
This year FLA is providing two Library Day Orientation Webinars to help advocates get up to speed about what is going on in Tallahassee and the library advocacy message. Information about Library Day plans and logistics will also be provided to ensure that participants have a positive, productive, and fun day. Choose the session that is most convenient - Tuesday, February 9, from 10 to 10:45 or Thursday, February 11 from 2 to 2:45.
Even though the regular legislative session does not begin until March 2, the legislature is already busy with committee meetings and the decision making process about library funding is underway. Participating in an Orientation Webinar will help prepare you advocate effectively for Florida libraries.
To register to attend Library Day on February 16, go to http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php
where you’ll find additional information about Library Day and the Honor Roll to support library advocacy.
If you register for either of these sessions, we will contact you with log-in information 24 to 48 hours prior to the workshop.
If you register for either of these sessions, we will contact you with log-in information 24 to 48 hours prior to the workshop.
Go to http://www.tblc.org/ws_info.php?ws=1058 to register for workshops
Thanks!
FLA's revised Intellectual Freedom Manual
The Florida Library Association has revised their Intellectual Freedom Manual and it is available online at this link:
http://www.flalib.org/int_Freedom_Manual.php
http://www.flalib.org/int_Freedom_Manual.php
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Library Day in Tallahassee
From the Florida Library Association:
LIBRARY DAY IS FEBRUARY 16!
Be a part of this major advocacy activity in support of Florida libraries.
Deadline for Early Bird Registration is January 30 – Register now and save $10
· Mail check to FLA office or pay by phone with credit card
· Registration form attached and available at http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php
Registration includes legislative update, materials packet, Friends’ Idea Exchange, admission to reception and a beautiful new art print provided by Mumford Library Books.
Library Day Schedule - All onsite events will be in downtown Tallahassee.
· Advance briefing by webinar on Feb. 9 at 10 am and Feb. 11 at 2:00 pm. Contact Legislative Committee Chair Charlie Parker cparker@tblc.org for more information.
· Registration and packet pick up will be in the Capitol Rotunda.
· Ongoing on-site briefing for library supporters at Capitol Rotunda.
· Friends Idea Exchange and Reception at LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library.
· See full schedule at http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php
Hotels – an updated list of Tallahassee hotels with new additions is available at http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php. Book soon to be sure to get a room and a good rate.
Issues – Check the advocacy web page http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php for FLA’s legislative platform and other information on issues facing Florida’s libraries.
See you in Tallahassee!
LIBRARY DAY IS FEBRUARY 16!
Be a part of this major advocacy activity in support of Florida libraries.
Deadline for Early Bird Registration is January 30 – Register now and save $10
· Mail check to FLA office or pay by phone with credit card
· Registration form attached and available at http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php
Registration includes legislative update, materials packet, Friends’ Idea Exchange, admission to reception and a beautiful new art print provided by Mumford Library Books.
Library Day Schedule - All onsite events will be in downtown Tallahassee.
· Advance briefing by webinar on Feb. 9 at 10 am and Feb. 11 at 2:00 pm. Contact Legislative Committee Chair Charlie Parker cparker@tblc.org for more information.
· Registration and packet pick up will be in the Capitol Rotunda.
· Ongoing on-site briefing for library supporters at Capitol Rotunda.
· Friends Idea Exchange and Reception at LeRoy Collins Leon County Public Library.
· See full schedule at http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php
Hotels – an updated list of Tallahassee hotels with new additions is available at http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php. Book soon to be sure to get a room and a good rate.
Issues – Check the advocacy web page http://www.flalib.org/advocacy.php for FLA’s legislative platform and other information on issues facing Florida’s libraries.
See you in Tallahassee!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Message to FLA Library Advocates
The Florida Library Association has learned that it is receiving the first ever American Library Association President’s Award for Advocacy. We are receiving the award because of you, because of the incredible job that you did last spring at the end of the regular legislative session when State Aid to Public Libraries funding was threatened with elimination. This is tremendous national recognition of the great work everyone did – and keep in mind that, because of the weak economy, the competition for this award was intense, as many states and communities had to rally just as Florida did, and you are the ones selected for the prize!
So thank you again for the wonderful job you did! Thank you to folks who picked up their phone, or sent an e-mail message, or sat outside the legislative meetings with signs, or called their relatives and community groups and asked them to join in the effort. Thank you to Secretary of State Kurt Browning, to State Librarian Judi Ring and their staff. Thank you to April Herrle and the great folks at Salter Mitchell who helped get out the word. Thank you to Chris Holley and the Florida Association of Counties for working the halls. And special thanks to Governor Crist, Senator Fasano and Representative Glorioso and all of those in the legislature who used their influence to help preserve library funding.
It is important for Florida library advocates to learn some important lessons from this award and recognition:
§ Your advocacy and hard work efforts pay off! – Your calls, letters, e-mails, and visits made the difference. It’s estimated that 20,000 individual contacts were made.
§ It is all about relationships! - When you work year around at building and maintaining relationships with legislators like you do, it pays off when libraries are in need. When you have met legislators at home in their district offices and in your libraries it is hard for them to tell you no.
§ You are really good at this! – Successful advocacy requires knowledge, skill and finesse and you demonstrate all of these. You have a strong reputation and credibility in Tallahassee and in your local communities. You are respected by the state's leaders - by legislators, lobbyists, and officials and now you have national recognition.
But we cannot rest on our achievements. Committee meetings are already underway as the legislature prepares for the next regular legislative session beginning March 2 and the state budget will be even tighter than last year. Please, it is time to focus on the session ahead.
§ Maintain contact with your legislators! – Advocacy and relationship building are year round activities and over the intervening months, library advocates have been visiting with legislators and preparing for the challenges ahead. If you have not seen your legislators recently, it is time to check in.
§ Build local advocacy networks! – Put together board and friends e-mail lists so you can communicate quickly when the need arises. Identify groups that you are a part of that you can reach out to for help – family, the folks in your e-mail directory, civic groups, book discussion groups, book fair participants, authors, publishers – any group likely to support libraries when you send out a call.
§ Keep the library message upbeat and positive! - One of the reasons for your success is that library folks are positive and persistent. We respect and appreciate legislators and the difficult decisions they are forced to make, we treat them with dignity and respect and we expect their respect too.
On FLA’s behalf I ask that you support FLA’s advocacy efforts by contributing to the Library Honor Roll as an individual or as a group. FLA’s budget is very modest and advocacy support is not cheap. During the last legislative crisis, FLA’s lobbyist, Chris Lyon’s, spent untold hours pacing the halls of the Capitol to help make sure you were heard. and learn how to contribute to financially to support advocacy for Florida libraries. Please review the attached information on how to contribute financially to support library advocacy by participating in the FLA Honor Roll or visit the FLA website and click on Advocacy.
Again, congratulations on this wonderful recognition and take it to heart – you earned it! And thank you – thank you a thousand times over for the wonderful job you do advocating for Florida libraries! We appreciate each and every one of you!
Sincerely,
Wendy Breeden, President
Florida Library Association
So thank you again for the wonderful job you did! Thank you to folks who picked up their phone, or sent an e-mail message, or sat outside the legislative meetings with signs, or called their relatives and community groups and asked them to join in the effort. Thank you to Secretary of State Kurt Browning, to State Librarian Judi Ring and their staff. Thank you to April Herrle and the great folks at Salter Mitchell who helped get out the word. Thank you to Chris Holley and the Florida Association of Counties for working the halls. And special thanks to Governor Crist, Senator Fasano and Representative Glorioso and all of those in the legislature who used their influence to help preserve library funding.
It is important for Florida library advocates to learn some important lessons from this award and recognition:
§ Your advocacy and hard work efforts pay off! – Your calls, letters, e-mails, and visits made the difference. It’s estimated that 20,000 individual contacts were made.
§ It is all about relationships! - When you work year around at building and maintaining relationships with legislators like you do, it pays off when libraries are in need. When you have met legislators at home in their district offices and in your libraries it is hard for them to tell you no.
§ You are really good at this! – Successful advocacy requires knowledge, skill and finesse and you demonstrate all of these. You have a strong reputation and credibility in Tallahassee and in your local communities. You are respected by the state's leaders - by legislators, lobbyists, and officials and now you have national recognition.
But we cannot rest on our achievements. Committee meetings are already underway as the legislature prepares for the next regular legislative session beginning March 2 and the state budget will be even tighter than last year. Please, it is time to focus on the session ahead.
§ Maintain contact with your legislators! – Advocacy and relationship building are year round activities and over the intervening months, library advocates have been visiting with legislators and preparing for the challenges ahead. If you have not seen your legislators recently, it is time to check in.
§ Build local advocacy networks! – Put together board and friends e-mail lists so you can communicate quickly when the need arises. Identify groups that you are a part of that you can reach out to for help – family, the folks in your e-mail directory, civic groups, book discussion groups, book fair participants, authors, publishers – any group likely to support libraries when you send out a call.
§ Keep the library message upbeat and positive! - One of the reasons for your success is that library folks are positive and persistent. We respect and appreciate legislators and the difficult decisions they are forced to make, we treat them with dignity and respect and we expect their respect too.
On FLA’s behalf I ask that you support FLA’s advocacy efforts by contributing to the Library Honor Roll as an individual or as a group. FLA’s budget is very modest and advocacy support is not cheap. During the last legislative crisis, FLA’s lobbyist, Chris Lyon’s, spent untold hours pacing the halls of the Capitol to help make sure you were heard. and learn how to contribute to financially to support advocacy for Florida libraries. Please review the attached information on how to contribute financially to support library advocacy by participating in the FLA Honor Roll or visit the FLA website and click on Advocacy.
Again, congratulations on this wonderful recognition and take it to heart – you earned it! And thank you – thank you a thousand times over for the wonderful job you do advocating for Florida libraries! We appreciate each and every one of you!
Sincerely,
Wendy Breeden, President
Florida Library Association
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)