Legislation would help libraries raise money
As a means to enhance libraries’ ability to generate local revenue and reduce their reliance on uncertain government funding, state Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-146th Dist., has reintroduced legislation that would exclude sales tax for library book sales.
Current state law allows libraries to use isolated sales — fewer than seven days each year — of used books without paying sales tax as a means of generating additional revenue. Ciresi’s legislation would expand that to allow libraries to sell used books for supplemental income without paying sales tax throughout the year.
“This would grant an extra way Pennsylvania’s 470 libraries could help support themselves,” Ciresi said in a press release.
“Especially in the context of long-term funding issues for libraries on the local government and state levels, locally generated revenue, including fundraising and donations, have become increasingly important in ensuring libraries can continue to provide their valuable services,” he said.
Ciresi said while libraries have long been known as a safe place to access books and educational resources, and more than 40 percent of Pennsylvanians are registered library users, libraries also offer STEM programs and equipment, provide crucial internet and computer access to many under-served people, engage in workforce development and provide additional access to services, including passports.
“So many Pennsylvanians rely on libraries for many aspects of their lives,” Ciresi said. “So, we need to find additional ways to support them and ensure they can remain a valuable resource for years to come.”
The bill, which had been introduced with bipartisan support in the 2019-20 legislative session but didn’t receive a vote, was reintroduced this session as H.B. 708 and was referred to the House Finance Committee for further review.
In addition to its regular book sales, and the daily sales of used books at the library’s “Book Nook,” Pottstown Regional Public Library Board President Frances Hylton said the popular fundraiser canceled last year due to COVID-19 will be back this year to be held virtually.
More information about the CHAIR-ity event, in which donated wooden chairs painted by local artists with the theme of classics books will be issued shortly and many o the chairs are on display in the library.
During the March 3 borough council meeting, Hylton said although the building is open only by appointment, many people are using the curbside pickup service and some thankful patrons even gave out Valentine’s Day cards to the staff.
“So many Pennsylvanians rely on libraries for many aspects of their lives. So we need to find additional ways to support them and ensure they can remain a valuable resource for years to come.”
— State Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-146th Dist.