Why is Loan Star Libraries needed in Texas?
Perhaps more than any other public institution, libraries help fight inequity by reaching those who might not have ready access to information, offering them a better chance of success. Currently, libraries cannot fulfill this growing need because they cannot afford to stay open enough hours each week to meet public demand, nor to have enough qualified staff to offer extensive public computer training and reference services. Texas public libraries need help in reaching people at all stages of life—from infants to the elderly—with specialized programs that enrich their lives and help them meet their personal goals. Although local communities already supply a minimum 95% of library funding in Texas, they are often unable to provide the resources needed to meet the increasing library needs of their citizens. Populations grow and needs for technology access and training increase, yet library budgets remain static, or worse, fall. Particularly in rural and impoverished areas, public librari
