The bill amends Section 29-6-2 of the General Laws in Chapter 29-6, entitled "State Aid to Libraries," to reinforce the importance of public libraries and the state's commitment to their financial support. It includes new findings that emphasize the constitutional duty of the General Assembly to promote public libraries, the essential role of libraries in democracy, their contribution to cultural, educational, informational, and research needs, and their status as an integral part of the educational system. The bill acknowledges the innovative strategies adopted by Rhode Island public libraries during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as virtual programming and curbside book pick-ups.

The bill specifies that for fiscal year 2024, the state's financial contribution to local public library services will be fixed at a minimum of twenty-five percent (25%) of the amount appropriated and expended by each city or town from local tax revenues and funds from the public library's private endowment that supplement the municipal appropriation. The state may use funds from the American Rescue Plan Act State Fiscal Recovery Funds to supplement this support. The act will take effect upon passage, ensuring that the state's financial obligation to support public libraries is clearly defined and that libraries can count on this level of support for the specified fiscal year.

Statutes affected:
541: 29-6-2