Support the Library Budget

March is an important time for FCPL, it means our budget approval is just around the corner. And we need you to share your library love with the decision makers. 

As no appeals were passed last year because of the unknown fiscal impact of the pandemic, we are again asking for our critical needs to be met through a sustainable funding model and staffing to support our Bookmobile, Sunday hours, and teen services.

County Executive Jan Gardner is presenting the preliminary budget to the public on Monday, March 22 at 7 p.m. via FCG TV on cable channels 19 and 1085 or online at publicinput.com/L2708. Here are a few ways to support your library and ensure that your voice is heard.

How To Help

  • Complete the County’s online survey today to request funding for the library. The online tool can be found at frederickcountymd.gov/Budget under “FY2022 Budget Survey with Balancing Act.” 
  • Submit a written comment using the letter below, or as a basis to write your own. Please send your letter to CountyExecutive@FrederickCountyMD.gov by Monday, March 22 at 7 p.m. 
  • Watch the hearing and submit a comment during the presentation. You can view the hearing and comment live at publicinput.com/L2708. Choose one of the following comments or create your own:    
    • Please approve all FCPL’s appeals! Their services are essential to our family. Funding for the Library is a good investment—they do so much! 
    • Please approve the library’s appeals. Sustainable funding for the Library will reach far and wide into our community. Please approve FCPL’s appeals. 
    • We ❤️ our Library! Please approve FCPL’s appeals.
  • Comment via voicemail any time before March 22 by calling 855-925-2801 and entering meeting code 9391.

Sample Letter

Dear County Executive Gardner,

I am a library lover, and I am asking that you fully fund the library’s budget appeals for a sustainable funding model and increased staffing.

Since the start of the pandemic, FCPL has created 770virtual programs, expanded their digital catalog, provided access to live tutoring for all FCPL students in EVERY subject, helped job seekers with resume feedback and interview assistance, and provided their entire collection through contactless Curbside Pickup.

[PLEASE SHARE YOUR PERSONAL LIBRARY STORY – mention what services you love most or how the library has impacted your family.]

Please make sure that they have the funding needed to meet the demands of Frederick County and pass their budget appeals.

Sincerely,

Your Name

Your Address