Local residents are responding to Meadville Public Library’s 42nd annual fund drive with 350 donations totaling $25,000 so far. “All donations are used to purchase new materials for the library’s collection,” according to John Brice, MPL’s director. “Those funds provided by just 350 individuals and businesses will allow us to purchase more than 1,000 books. Contributions are appreciated more than ever,” Brice said, “since state funding for public libraries was cut by more than 20 percent.” Because of the state’s decreased funding, the library has been forced to lay off two part-time employees, reduce staff hours and cut hours of operation.

“The state budget cuts come at a time when library resources are in demand more than ever,” Brice said. With the current state of the economy, more people are vising the library to take advantage of free access to books, movies, music, periodicals and computers. “Going into this year’s Patrons Drive we were concerned about the response. However, the Meadville community is responding generously to our appeal. At a time of declining revenue and increasing use, it is nice to see how the Meadville community understands the needs of a library,” Brice further commented.

Brice emphasized that gifts of any amount will allow the facility to continue purchasing new materials. Contributions and memorials are tax deductible and may be sent to Meadville Public Library, 848 N. Main Street, Meadville PA, 16335.

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