On May 3, the House and Senate agreed to fund Florida’s State Aid to Public Libraries program at $21,253,978.

Throughout Florida, folks stepped up, got engaged, and made this happen.  We will never know just how extensive this effort was, but we have seen signs of extensive networks and efforts in Florida’s smallest towns.  There are so many wonderful stories.  So many folks did such innovative and clever things.  And normal Floridians who had never called or e-mailed an official stood up and roared!

Some folks to thank!

-  Senator Crist – He was down there working it with the Conferees.  We asked for his help, and he responded.

-  Rep. Nehr – from Pinellas – and lots of others, who went to the leaders and said you’ve got to do this!

-  Senator Alexander and Rep. Rivera who would not give up on our issue!  And Senator Fasano, Rep. Gloriso, and Rep. Evers who have been there for us since the day one!

-  Secretary Kurt Browning, who has been on the hill, working for us, ably supported by Rivers Buford and Judi Ring.

-  Chris Doolin from the Small County Coaliton – and Danny Hales who has helped keep those folks engaged!  Chris has really been working it!

-  The Florida press corps who picked up our issue and put it out there!

-  Faye Roberts, executive director of FLA, who did a beautiful job communications director, explaining things to the media.

-  Lisa Manners – the Capwiz message count was over 9,000.

-  Tom Sloan and the SEFLIN folks put up a page like Capwiz and handled hundreds of messages.

Charlie Parker
TBLC Executive Director