(Photo provided) Sarah Jackson, director of the New Martinsville Public Library, poses in front of the Capitol in Charleston during Library Day.

With cuts to federal library funding looming across the United States, local public librarians in West Virginia like Sarah Jackson are expressing to state legislators the importance of libraries in their communities.

Jackson, director of the New Martinsville Public Library, attended Library Day at the Capitol in Charleston on March 24. She said it was a great opportunity for libraries of all sizes to talk to the lawmakers.

“We were able to not only network and speak with our legislators but with our colleagues across the state as well,” she said. “What is great about the library system is that there is no competition. We all have the same goals and help build each other up to achieve those.”

Jackson said she and others were allowed to set up displays in the Capitol Rotunda, which allowed legislators to stop and ask questions about programming.

“During our meetings with legislators, we discussed the vital role public libraries play in West Virginia communities, particularly in providing access to educational resources, internet connectivity, and community programming,” she said. “We emphasized the importance of state support in maintaining and expanding these services. Our conversations focused on ensuring sustainable funding and advocating for continued investment in library infrastructure and technology.”

Jackson also expressed concern about the planned cuts to federal library funding.

“With the potential for federal cuts to library funding, we are deeply concerned about how this could impact our ability to serve the community,” she said.

“Federal funds help support digital literacy programs, materials for underserved populations, and essential technology upgrades. Any reduction could mean fewer resources and opportunities for our patrons, which is why we’re urging our legislators to recognize libraries as a necessary investment in education and workforce development.

“Some legislators expressed their support for libraries and acknowledged the challenges we face. While there weren’t immediate funding solutions presented, they encouraged ongoing discussions and partnerships to explore additional funding opportunities at the state and local levels.”

According to published reports, the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services’ staff of 70 people has been put on administrative leave. The IMLS is the agency that administers grants to libraries and museums across the U.S.

Jackson noted that libraries “provide so much more than just books.”

“We provide free computer access, low cost printing and copying services, and an extensive genealogy department,” she said. “Since I began my position in September, we have started a book club, a genealogy club, weekly game times and more.

“We are completely updating our summer reading programs to have better incentives to get people of all ages in the door reading. We have recently upgraded our restrooms and doors to be more accessible to the public.

“We are trying to engage in our community and provide the best resources for them. We need funding to be able to make that happen.”

Jackson said she wants people to know that “their voices matter.”

“Advocacy isn’t just something libraries do – it’s something communities can take part in, too,” she said. “There is a lot going on not just on the national level, but on the state level as well. “Many new bills are being proposed that could change the way a lot of libraries operate. I encourage library supporters to reach out to their representatives and share why their library is important to them. Every message helps reinforce the need for strong library funding.”

Jackson said people can also support their local libraries during National Library Week, April 6-12.

“This is a great time for patrons to show their love and appreciation for the services we offer,” she said. “People can donate used books before April 16 to our semi-annual book sale, happening April 19-26, or can donate any amount to help support our events like the Summer Reading Program and Storytime.

“Every little bit helps, from following us on social media, sharing our posts, stopping in and signing up for a library card, to visiting to check out the newest selection.

“We provide free computer access, low cost printing and copying services, and an extensive genealogy department,” she said. “Since I began my position in September, we have started a book club, a genealogy club, weekly game times and more.

“We are completely updating our summer reading programs to have better incentives to get people of all ages in the door reading. We have recently upgraded our restrooms and doors to be more accessible to the public.

“We are trying to engage in our community and provide the best resources for them. We need funding to be able to make that happen.”

Jackson said she wants people to know that “their voices matter.”

“Advocacy isn’t just something libraries do – it’s something communities can take part in, too,” she said. “There is a lot going on not just on the national level, but on the state level as well. “Many new bills are being proposed that could change the way a lot of libraries operate. I encourage library supporters to reach out to their representatives and share why their library is important to them. Every message helps reinforce the need for strong library funding.”

Jackson said people can also support their local libraries during National Library Week, April 6-12.

“This is a great time for patrons to show their love and appreciation for the services we offer,” she said. “People can donate used books before April 16 to our semi-annual book sale, happening April 19-26, or can donate any amount to help support our events like the Summer Reading Program and Storytime.

“Every little bit helps, from following us on social media, sharing our posts, stopping in and signing up for a library card, to visiting to check out the newest selection.”