Libraries brace for possible budget cuts from Senate Bill 1

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- A recent analysis by the Indiana Library Federation has raised concerns about the potential impact of Senate Bill 1 on public library funding in Indiana. According to the analyst, the bill could lead to a significant reduction in funding for public libraries, with estimated losses of over $12 million in 2026 and nearly $17 million by 2028.

Local libraries in Indiana, like the St. Joe County Library, say they play a vital role in their communities, welcoming over 20 million visitors each year who borrow more than 50 million items purchased with tax dollars across the state.

These institutions serve as more than just repositories of books, they are community hubs that offer a free space for people to gather, access information, and participate in various events and services.

Some local libraries, including those in Middlebury, Mishawaka, and Goshen, are already voicing their concerns about the potential funding cuts. The St. Joe County Library branches are particularly worried about how the tax cut will affect their 10-year plan and upcoming projects.

While the exact dollar amounts are still unclear, and the changes are a few years out, library officials are already thinking about how to adapt to the potential funding reductions.

“Libraries will always be this spot of hope in any Community. there’s so much inspiration that can be found in so I think even when we look at potential cuts to funding, we’re just always gonna remain optimistic and just continue serving our patron the best way we possibly can and do the work that we do every day to serve the community,” said Stephanie Murphy the executive director of St. Joe County Public Library.

South Bend Mayor James Mueller has also expressed his concerns about the potential impact of Senate Bill 1. During today's quarterly safety update, Mayor Mueller spoke out against the signing of the bill, stating that the cuts will create difficult choices for the city in the coming years.