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While Ohio Republicans have been working overtime to undermine and defund the state’s public libraries, Today in Ohio podcasters note that voters sent a clear message Tuesday: hands off our libraries. In Tuesday’s election, Ohioans approved a staggering 18 out of 20 library taxes on the ballot, including 13 renewals and several increases. The overwhelming support for local libraries comes despite the GOP-controlled legislature’s efforts to scrap the funding formula that had kept these institutions healthy. The Republican lawmakers’ attacks on libraries seem to have backfired, with the public rallying to protect these beloved community hubs. As Chris Quinn noted, “I think the power-engorged Republicans in the legislature just don’t get what a political force the libraries can be. People love them. We know they love them. They almost always support them. And when the libraries are under attack, people get upset about it.” Even Governor Mike DeWine, who signed the budget that slashed library funding, has tried to position himself as a champion of reading by promoting a Dolly Parton book program. But as Quinn pointed out, “He signed that, but he could have vetoed what they did to the libraries and he didn’t. So on the one hand, he’s trying to show, ‘Hey, I care about reading,’ but he signed the plan that will savage libraries. It’s the height of hypocrisy.” The resounding success of the library levies sends a clear message to Ohio Republicans: mess with our libraries at your own peril. These institutions are deeply embedded in the fabric of local communities, and voters will not hesitate to defend them. The GOP’s culture war crusade against libraries could very well backfire, mobilizing a powerful political force against them in future elections. Listen to the discussion here. Read more Today in Ohio news Big Tech vs. GOP: Will Ohio Republicans cave to AI money? Special treatment for the wealthy in FirstEnergy bribery case: Why are execs’ pleadings secret? “He should be in prison:” How restaurateur Bobby George admitted violent abuse and walked away
