New Louisiana State Budget to Eliminate Funding for Public Libraries [OPINION] [POLL]

Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal has signed a $25 million budget which prioritizes education and healthcare, all while eliminating the $900,000 normally allocated for public libraries. Paul Rainwater, Jindal’s chief budget aide, said, “Operations such as local libraries can be supported with local, not state dollars.”

I think it’s wildly inappropriate for state officials to say they are prioritizing on education, while at the same cutting funding to public libraries.  Not only do public libraries work hand in hand in the education of our state’s children, but it is also a source of continuing education for the adults of the state.

Because the state’s budget for public libraries only allowed for $900,000 split between  the over 400 public libraries throughout the state, many libraries won’t suffer from the loss of the  admittedly paltry sums they were previously receiving.  These deficits will likely be made up by their local governments, but this might not happen for libraries existing in more rural parishes.  What will become of all the books?

What’s your opinion on the matter? Vote now!