This state has not funded its libraries adequately for 50 years and it shows. If the board members were not enthusiastic patrons of libraries, the picture would be even worse. When libraries are under funded consistently, their utility to the community slowly leeches away. 70% of library budgets are personnel, the other 30% is buildings and all library functions including the collection. Many, many states budget more money to their libraries than does Minnesota. If we want to be a brain power state we have to "feed our heads."
WizardMarks, Central
Wizard Marks has made this argument before, that Minnesota does not adequately fund its libraries. In the past, I have simply agreed that libraries are extremely important, and by omission, agreed that it was probably true that Minnesota underfunds its libraries.
But now I want some evidence.
The Hennepin County libraries outside of Minneapolis are quite nice. There does not seem to be a tremendous shortage of money there, although they may be able to provide even better service with more money.
A number of cities in Hennepin county have very nice libraries, as well.
So, who funds the county libraries? Who funds city libraries? Should most of the funds for Minneapolis, county and other city libraries come from the state?
Wizard says "many, many states budget more money to their libraries than does Minneosta." Which ones? Many, many implies far more than a simple majority. So are you saying more than 30 states budget more than Minnesota? Is that on a per capita, percentage of state revenue or just total dollars basis?
I've lived in other states. I haven't noticed a wealth of libraries and library services in them compared to Minnesota.
Let's see your facts, Wizard.
Chris Johnson Fulton
TEMPORARY REMINDER: 1. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. 2. If you don't like what's being discussed here, don't complain - change the subject (Mpls-specific, of course.)
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