SENATE ConCurrent Resolution 25
(By Senators Rucker, Barrett, Charnock, Hamilton, Helton, Maynard, Phillips, Rose, Thorne, Willis, Woodrum)
[Originating in the Committee on Government Organization; reported April 8, 2025]
Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance study incentives and policies to best fund public libraries for the state of West Virginia.
Whereas, The lack of certain critical funding for public libraries impacts the state and its citizens in several ways; and
Whereas, Public libraries are vital community resources that provide free access to books, digital resources, educational programs, job training, and other services that promote lifelong learning and community development; and
Whereas, Public libraries in West Virginia serve as essential hubs for individuals and families, particularly in underserved and rural areas, offering support for literacy, workforce development, and access to information that is critical for personal and professional growth; and
Whereas, West Virginia's public libraries play an indispensable role in supporting educational achievement and fostering community engagement, yet many are at risk of underfunding, which threatens their ability to continue offering critical services to the state’s residents;
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study incentives and policies to best fund public libraries in the state of West Virginia; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2026, on its findings, on its findings, conclusions, and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report, and to draft legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.