In response to increasing threats to library funding, the Wayne County Library Director, Tracy Schwartz, is urging residents to “Show Up for Our Libraries,” an initiative launched by the American Library Association (ALA). The campaign encourages library supporters to advocate for essential services that libraries provide to their communities and to voice their concerns to policymakers at local, state, and national levels.

Schwartz, speaking on Radio Chatskill, highlighted the importance of libraries in rural areas, especially the seven libraries in Wayne County—located in Honesdale, Hawley, Hamlin, Newfoundland, Bethany, Lakewood, and Pleasant Mount. As a collective of nonprofit organizations, these libraries offer vital services ranging from literacy programs to workforce development.

A significant concern for libraries, including those in Wayne County, is the potential loss of funding through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), an agency that currently provides indirect federal funding to Pennsylvania libraries. Recent political developments have led to calls for eliminating IMLS, which could ripple down and affect libraries across the country, including local resources like online databases, interlibrary loans, and educational support services.

“Without sufficient funding, many of the essential programs we offer, such as summer reading programs, internet access, veterans' telehealth support, and literacy services for individuals with visual impairments, could be at risk,” explained Schwartz. 

Currently, Wayne County libraries receive approximately 30% of their funding from local community support, 20% from the state, with the rest reliant on donations.

Beyond book lending, Wayne County libraries have evolved into community hubs. Schwartz emphasized that libraries provide much more than access to reading materials—they offer spaces for technology literacy, community events, and even social interaction. The Wayne Library Alliance connects seven libraries in the area, allowing residents to share resources, borrow materials from multiple libraries, and access services like delivery drivers transporting books across counties.

“We’ve worked hard to maintain these connections and share resources, which not only benefits the libraries but strengthens the entire community,” said Schwartz. Through partnerships with local organizations, such as the Workforce Alliance, libraries also offer digital literacy courses to improve technological skills in the community.

Additionally, libraries in Wayne County are participating in a growing trend of offering non-traditional services. From access to crafting and cooking resources online to providing audiobooks and eBooks via platforms like Libby and Hoopla, these libraries strive to meet the diverse needs of their patrons.

As National Library Week approaches (April 6-12), Schwartz is calling on residents to show their support for libraries. 

“Whether you use the library for books, digital resources, or community programs, your voice matters. Tell local and national leaders how libraries have impacted your life and why funding these services is crucial,” she said.

The Wayne Library Alliance offers a central website, waynelibraries.org, where community members can learn about the services offered, donate, or sign up for a library card.

For those interested in the broader campaign to defend libraries, the ALA’s site (ala.org) provides resources to advocate for library funding and share personal stories.

Schwartz reflected on the personal joy that libraries bring to both children and adults. 

“There’s something magical about a child walking into a library for the first time and getting their library card,” she said. “It’s the beginning of a journey that can lead anywhere. We need to protect that experience for future generations.”