Bureau of Library Development (BLD) FAQs

We have heard from a few folks in the field that they are concerned about meeting the Incentive for Excellence Aid's 12% collection expenditure standard due to the unforeseen circumstances surrounding Baker & Taylor (B&T). We want to address a few of the questions and concerns here.

1. Can the 12% collection expenditure be adjusted for this year due to the B&T issue?
a. No. Since the 12% collection expenditure is in the Statute, we do not have the authority to alter the 12% expectation. If a library does not meet the 12% and waivers are available*, they are encouraged to apply for a waiver to continue receiving state funds from the Public Library Subsidy.

2. Can a blanket waiver be provided for libraries affected by B&T?
a. No. While blanket waivers have been given in the past, we are unable to continue that practice. Waivers are only to be accepted if an economic hardship is the cause of not meeting a standard and are to be applied for by the board of directors of the library. We need to ensure that economic hardship has been presented and therefore we are unable to provide blanket waivers as all cases are different.

3. Will the situation with B&T be an acceptable reason for a waiver application (if needed/if available*)?
a. Maybe, as it will depend on the library’s ability to demonstrate economic hardship. The issue with B&T will be taken into consideration and should be mentioned in the library’s waiver application, if applicable. There is still time before the end of the year to adjust and try to meet the 12%.

b. One option is to cancel any orders with B&T and spend that money as best as you can before the end of year. If a library makes this effort and cannot spend this money before the end of the year to meet their 12% collection expenditure, they will be given the opportunity to apply for a waiver of standards when waivers are available*. If the library can justifiably state that they made an effort to meet their 12%, we anticipate that the waiver will be approved.

4. Does OCL have any sway with B&T?
a. No.

*The State Librarian may waive standards as outlined in the statute (§9332 (a)) if “the Commonwealth appropriation for libraries (state aid) in any fiscal year is less than that provided in the immediately preceding fiscal year, upon application by the board of directors of the local library…” With the statutory funding formula not in use, we rely on the fiscal language of the state budget each year that currently allows waivers “If funds appropriated for State aid to libraries in fiscal year 2024-2025 are less than funds appropriated in fiscal year 2002-2003, the State Librarian may waive standards as prescribed in 24 Pa.C.S. Ch. 93.” Historically, this language has been updated each year and added to the fiscal language. We anticipate that legislators will continue to carry this over each year, but it is not a given. For these reasons, we cannot guarantee that waivers are available every year.