Library Issues & Taking Action
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Summary of the 82nd Regular Session
The House and Senate voted to approve HB 1, the state’s budget bill. The final version settled on the House recommendations for library funding in Article I of the budget (where funding for the State Library is found). The budget restores $2.5 million over the biennium for TexShare but does not include funding for the K-12 databases, Loan Star Libraries (direct aid for public libraries), or other library programs at the agency. The final budget did restore the State Law Library.
SB 773 (Zaffirini), the key telecom bill for educational institutions, did pass the legislature. For a complete write-up on the Regular Session, go to Texline 282.
The Special Session called to complete work on the state's school finance formula concluded in late June. For a write up of the Special Session and the State Library's reorganization plan, see Texline 283.
Get the latest legislative update through TLA's Texline updates.
Overview of Library Issues for the 82nd Legislature
(Issue sheets are linked as pdf's by topic below.)
82nd SESSION PRIORITIES/RESTORE FUNDING TO LIBRARIES – The proposed state budget eliminates funding for statewide library programs.
TEXSHARE DATABASES – TexShare databases make world-class online library of research materials available to all the state’s colleges, universities, and public libraries. State funding was eliminated for this program.
K-12 DATABASE PROGRAM – The K-12 Database Program offers K-12 students, teachers, and parents access to digital instructional materials specifically geared for the K-12 school community. All state funding for the program was eliminated in the proposed state budget.
LOAN STAR LIBRARIES– This grant program awards funds to public libraries throughout the state to support communities. All funding for this program was eliminated in the proposed state budget.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS DISCOUNTS – This statewide program for schools, libraries, and higher education requires providers to offer certain services (such as T1 lines and fiber connections) at no more than 110% of costs. The program expires on Jan. 1, 2012.
STRONG SCHOOL LIBRARIES – School libraries and certified school librarians are critical in supporting education and all forms of literacy. Policy makers must recognize that school librarians ARE teachers.
For additional information, contact Gloria Meraz, TLA Director of Communications, 512/328-1518.
