HB 131 Summary

• Amends the formula for distributing more than $4 million in annual public library standards funds among Delaware's 33 public libraries, effective fiscal year 2012 and beyond.

• Allocates 40% of funds based on actual local expenditures by each contracting public library, 40% based on per capita service population, and 10% to the Division of Libraries for statewide services and standards.

• Provides that up to 10% of appropriated funds may support countywide and regional library services through anchor public libraries and allow the Division to assist libraries impacted by census changes or new library expansion.

• Distributes any unallocated funds from the 10% portion to contracting public libraries on the same pro-rata basis as the 40-40 split to improve collections, staffing, or other mutually agreed priorities.

• Simplifies the 1984 funding formula to maintain balanced allocations between local spending and population served while reducing annual funding volatility across public libraries.