Since 2001, the State Library budget has suffered severe cuts and staffing has been reduced 45%, from 130 to 72.  Most of this reduction has been achieved through attrition but this is no longer possible. With the latest budget reduction, it has become necessary to once again review our goals and prioritize our objectives.

Ohio is fortunate to have many library organizations providing opportunities for continuing education (CE) for staff working in all types of libraries. In fact, many of these organizations, whose sole purpose is to provide CE to the Ohio library community, depend on income generated through these services. In order to reduce duplication, yet continue to provide programs and services unique to the State Library, the continuing education staff position and program have been eliminated.

The State Library will carry on collaborations with CE partners for workshops and trainings. Individuals within programs at the State Library will continue to offer specialized training, e.g. content specific services or how to use government documents for research. In addition, online courses via WebJunction Ohio service will be available at no cost through June 30, 2010.