The Kansas Legislature has passed its final budget that includes $6 million for Kan-ed, compared to the current $10 million. Libraries face a new and uncertain future as a result of that $4 million cut in Kan-ed funding. A statement from Kan-ed says in part: “As you can imagine, a 40% reduction in our budget will dramatically affect services.” Internet connectivity, online databases, and the ELMeR videoconference system are all subject to reconsideration.
In addition, it is difficult to say what the prospects are for Kan-ed funding beyond 2012. It is obvious that very strong efforts will be needed to restore full Kan-ed funding. We will keep NEKLS libraries informed as the impact of this reduction in funding becomes more clear.