Bookmark the future of Montana’s libraries.

It would be hard to overestimate how much libraries contribute to the state of Montana. Suffice it to say, it’s a lot more than books. The list of digital resources alone is impressive—statewide directories, shared catalogs, talking book services, educational resources. But libraries today also serve as vibrant community centers offering not only meeting spaces, but geographic and historical information, and natural heritage programs.

There are more than 750 libraries across the state and this legislation would help all of them.

This funding means big benefits for libraries and communities.

A mandate for libraries across the state to share resources is already on the books. What’s missing is the allocation of funds to implement it. As it stands now, it’s up to individual towns and counties to foot the bill. As you can imagine, this is something most small, rural communities simply can’t accommodate. Passage of the “Montanans for Libraries” legislation means they won’t be forced to shoulder a burden they are simply unable to bear.

This legislation will resolve the unfunded mandate outlined in MCA-22-1-328 which has very real implications:

• Easier access to eResources like audiobooks and eBooks.
• Give every Montana library access to the Montana Shared Catalog
•  Improve access to genealogy, local history, local newspapers and the Montana History Portal.
• Dedicated eBook and Audiobook service statewide for K-12 and homeschool students.
• Reduce wait times and create efficient interlibrary loan services.