HB1991

SECTION 1. The Hawaii state public library system recently published a five year plan regarding the use of federal Library Services and Technology Act funds that it was awarded for 2008 to 2012. Among numerous goals outlined in the five year plan is to provide library services and collections to underserved communities in Hawaii.

Budget restraints and a temporary hiring freeze have caused the state public library system to reduce its hours of operation over the last several years. In addition, the 2003 funding and staff shortage forced the state public library system to eliminate all but one of its bookmobiles. While budgetary pressures have started to improve, the state library system still has difficulty filing vacant staff positions. Despite this, the state public library system remains dedicated to improving outreach to underserved areas.

The state public library system currently offers online databases, digital e‑books, and online access to audio‑books and music. Some libraries offer deposit collection for rural residents. The state public library system has researched outreach alternatives to improve service to rural and other underserved areas. Some of the options include bookmobiles, internet mobiles, books‑by‑mail, storefront libraries, and remote deposit collections.

However, outreach programs are costly and labor intensive. For instance, remote book drops must be regularly picked up, which requires a vehicle and a staff member to maintain the program. Staffing constraints and escalating fuel prices affect this and similar programs. The state public library system is considering technological alternatives, such as downloadable digital e‑books. One proposal is to visit nursing homes with laptop computers to instruct residents how to search the catalog and access services.

The state public library system has used prior federal Library Services and Technology Act funds to implement a new library automation system, including new hardware, software, and telecommunications, to improve public access. Federal funds also enabled the state library system to purchase over sixty authoritative full‑text online databases via its participation in the Hawaii Library Consortium.

The purpose of this Act is to help the state public library system achieve the goals enumerated in its five year plan by appropriating funds for the state public library system to establish an outreach program, including personnel and supplies, to identify, develop, and implement programs for underserved areas in Hawaii.

SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2008-2009 for the state public library system to establish an outreach program, including personnel and supplies, to identify, develop, and implement programs for underserved areas in Hawaii.

The sum appropriated shall be expended by the department of education for the purposes of this Act.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2008.

INTRODUCED BY:	_____________________________

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	1991
TWENTY-FOURTH LEGISLATURE, 2008
STATE OF HAWAII