Illinois has now entered into an unprecedented 6 months without a state budget and it doesn’t seem like legislators are making much progress. Very soon, many of our members will be forced to make hard decisions about collections, programming, and staffing in light of the budget impasse. Services that Illinois patrons depend on are in jeopardy and Illinois Heartland Library System is calling you to action! There are many ways that you can speak up for Illinois libraries. Contact your legislator. Attend the ILA Public Policy Committee and Advocacy meetings typically held on the first Monday of the month and available at all IHLS offices via VTEL. Check out the advocacy tools provided by ILA. Urge your neighbors, community members, and patrons to express the importance of library services to legislators. Some people think that librarians are quiet, but now is the time to shout about the necessary services we offer our communities!
The next ILA PPC and Advocacy meetings will be held on Monday, December 7. Attending one or both of those meetings is a great way to start taking action!