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. We invite you to celebrate with us by giving the gift of literacy and donating to support early childhood literacy in Adams County. 

Last year, nearly 500,000 books circulated from libraries across Adams County, and more than half of those were children’s books. 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, mainly since we are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, not a government agency. 

The majority of our funding comes from local government agencies, including Adams County and numerous local townships. These funds allow us to keep our doors open and help 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 to remain operational, now raising nearly 30% of our annual budget from donations. 

Despite our increased success with fundraising, ACLS has had to trim its budget for decades as inflation has far outpaced our funding sources. Continuing to reduce expenses jeopardizes the essential services that we provide to Adams County residents every day. Decreased library funding is more than an economic decision, it’s a divestment from 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 help us ensure children in Adams County can continue to access the tools that they need to set the foundation for a lifetime of learning by donating today at:  https://www.adamslibrary.org/librarygivingday

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!

Sincerely,

Erica Duffy, ACLS Development Director