Every April, National Library Week celebrates the vital role libraries play in our communities, providing access to knowledge, resources, and a welcoming space for all. Last year, nearly 500,000 books circulated from the Adams County Library System (ACLS), our internet services were accessed over 100,000 times, our programs were attended by nearly 37,000 people, and we welcomed over 195,000 visitors. However, behind the bookshelves and digital archives, funding remains a crucial factor in keeping public libraries thriving. Public libraries rely on a combination of local, state, and federal funding, as well as grants, donations, and special events to maintain services. ACLS is no different, particularly since we are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, not a government agency. 

The majority of our funding comes from local government agencies to include Adams County as well as numerous local townships. These local government funds allow us to keep our doors open, helping to cover the costs of our buildings, our staff, and the materials on our shelves. We also rely on state government support for both our budget and for specific services. 

The Office of Commonwealth Libraries in Pennsylvania is part of the PA Department of Education. The proposed PA State Budget includes a flat budget of $70.47 million for a public library subsidy that is a major source of funding for public libraries across the state, including ACLS. In 2024, ACLS received $765,567, a decrease from the $846,775 received in 2008. The Office of Commonwealth Libraries is requesting a modest increase in this year’s state budget. These funds pay for reading materials, library programs and outreach, and free library cards for Adams County residents. As government support decreased or remained flat over the years, ACLS tripled its fundraising efforts since 2008 in order to remain operational, now raising nearly 30% of our annual budget from donations. 

In addition to funds, the services provided by the Office of Commonwealth Libraries as a result of federal funding are critical parts of our library services. For example, in Pennsylvania the Office of Commonwealth Libraries currently receives $5.9 million from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to fund its InterLibrary Loan (ILL) program, PA Forward which provides databases for public libraries as well as trainings for public librarians, early childhood literacy programs, and more. In 2024, Adams County loaned out 2,652 items to other libraries using the ILL service and borrowed 7,184 items from other libraries to support the needs of our communities. 

While not a direct funding source, E-rate is an important federal program crucial to public libraries. This federal initiative provides discounted internet and connectivity services to schools and libraries. The loss of this program in 2025 would likely cost ACLS $43,000. Last year, free internet services were accessed more than 109,000 times by visitors to ACLS locations. Many people in our community rely on internet access at the library when they can’t get it at home, whether that is because broadband is not accessible in their area or because of a temporary outage at home.

Despite our increased success with fundraising, ACLS has had to trim its budget for decades as inflation has far outpaced our funding sources. We can no longer reduce expenses without jeopardizing the essential services that we provide to Adams County residents every day. Reducing library funding is more than an economic decision, it’s a divestment in the future of Adams County.

Your library is a central hub to Adams County. We know how much you support your library -- through your attendance at programs, by using your library card, by the lovely letters of accolades and support we receive, and by, of course, your donations. We encourage you to share your library story with your elected officials or send it to us at development@adamslibrary.org so we can share on your behalf. If you would like to connect with ACLS to learn even more ways to support and advocate for ACLS, contact us at development@adamslibrary.org. You can also visit the PA Library Association’s website to learn even more ways to support and advocate for ACLS. We truly appreciate your support!

Submitted by: Erica Duffy, Development Director of the Adams County Library System.