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May 20, 2010
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Senator Pileggi Calls for Comprehensive Update to Pennsylvania's 50-Year-Old Library Code

Senate Majority Leader Dominic Pileggi (R-9) has introduced a resolution calling for a study designed to lay the groundwork for a comprehensive update of the 50-year-old law governing library services in Pennsylvania. 

"Libraries in Pennsylvania are busier than ever," said Senator Pileggi. "But the state Library Code was enacted in 1961, and it is now antiquated in many ways. As we face another difficult budget, this study is a cost-effective way to help ensure that every dollar invested in library services is put to the best possible use." 

According to the Pennsylvania Library Association, visits to the state's 474 public libraries were up 11 percent in 2009 compared to 2008, circulation of books and videos was up 9 percent, and in-library computer use was up 19 percent. 

Senator Pileggi's resolution, SR 343, will require the Joint State Government Commission to review the Library Code and the current library structure, including the funding formula. The final report, with recommendations, will be due by November 30. 

"Pennsylvania's Library Code was used as a model for other states when it was first enacted," Senator Pileggi said. "However, it has not been thoroughly reviewed since its inception. It is overdue to be modernized." 

"The Pennsylvania Library Association supports Senator Pileggi's call for a review of the Library Code," said Glenn R. Miller, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Library Association. "We know that there is room to improve and update the Library Code. We also know that a study of the Library Code this year may well dovetail with the work of the Library Association's Next Generation Task Force that has been developing a new platform for library services in time for the next administration." 

Additional information about state issues is available at Senator Pileggi's web site, www.SenatorPileggi.com, and on his Facebook page, www.facebook.com/SenatorPileggi. More information about the Pennsylvania Library Association is available at www.palibraries.org.

Contact:

Erik Arneson
(717) 787-4712