We want to bring to your attention the indispensable role that Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) federal funding plays in supporting your library's vital services to the community. Currently, the SEO Consortium receives approximately $571,000 in LSTA funds annually. With 104 member libraries, the loss of this funding could translate to an average increase of approximately $5,490 per member library in operational costs. To illustrate the significance of this funding, these resources are directly allocated to essential areas such as:
- Maintaining our shared Ohio Digital Library (ODL) platform: This funding covers platform fees, the acquisition of digital content, and the creation of essential catalog records, ensuring your patrons have access to a vast collection of ebooks, audiobooks, and more. This also includes the cost of a dedicated full-time library consultant who supports the ODL, benefiting all members.
- Enriching your catalog with Syndetics Unbound: This valuable tool enhances your catalog with rich content, improving discoverability and user experience.
- Exploring innovative technologies like Talpa AI: LSTA funds support our efforts to integrate AI solutions that can streamline processes and enhance services for your library.
- Supporting essential staffing: These funds support a portion of the salaries for six key SEO staff members and the full salary of a dedicated IT professional. These individuals provide crucial support and expertise to all member libraries.
- Covering essential operational costs: This includes building maintenance, cleaning services, delivery supplies, and equipment upkeep, ensuring the smooth functioning of our shared resources.
The potential elimination of LSTA funding would necessitate difficult decisions. Significantly scaling back the Ohio Digital Library's content and platform, discontinuing valuable technology resources, and struggling to cover basic operational expenses. Understanding this direct financial impact – an average of $5,490 per library – underscores the critical importance of LSTA funding in sustaining the high-quality services your library offers to your community. We encourage you to share this information with your library board to ensure they are aware of the potential consequences of losing this vital support. We are committed to advocating for the continuation of this essential funding and will keep you informed of any developments.