April 10, 2006	Volume 5, Number 12

Burmaster praises legislation to improve library operations

On March 27, the governor signed legislation that will lower costs for library operations, improve organizational efficiency of library services in the state, and provide greater clarity in Wisconsin library laws. Senate Bill 273 was based on recommendations of the State Superintendent’s Task Force on Public Library Legislation and Funding. The task force conducted a comprehensive review of issues facing Wisconsin’s 387 public libraries and 17 library systems, and made recommendations for statutory improvements. The task force included broad representation of the statewide public library community, as well as citizen and legislative members.

“I want to thank Governor Jim Doyle for signing this bill, and Senator Joe Leibham (R-Sheboygan) and Representative Stephen Freese (R-Dodgeville) for their efforts in advancing legislation that will help our libraries better serve the citizens of Wisconsin," said State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster. "The bill that passed through both houses of the Legislature without amendment represents long-term efforts by task force members and the library community.

“The legislation, which modernizes and clarifies state laws regarding libraries, will allow them to operate more efficiently by streamlining procedures for the approval of library expenditures for salaries, benefits, and other recurrent expenditures.

"The governor’s signing of this bill is good news for Wisconsin libraries. We celebrate the contributions libraries make to our culture and quality of life, and this legislation supports libraries in their mission of service to the citizens of Wisconsin,” said Burmaster.

Last updated on 4/10/2006