California Reading and Literacy Improvement and Public Library Construction and Renovation Bond Act of 2000
	Rebuttal to Argument Against Proposition 14

Arguments on this page are the opinions of the authors and have not been checked for accuracy by any official agency.

The argument against Proposition 14 does nothing to change the facts.

Proposition 14 was placed on the ballot with overwhelming support from Republicans and Democrats in the State Senate and Assembly, because it is an important part of our effort to improve literacy and learning.

Children are introduced to reading, and adults improve reading skills, through the world of books. Despite the explosion of interest in the Internet, library usage continues to grow at extraordinary rates. A State Library study shows California needing 425 library projects over the next few years just to meet current demand.

In addition, Proposition 14 maximizes local tax dollars. Qualified local projects will receive up to 65% of their funding from the state, preserving local money for books, hours and programs.

Examine the facts:

FACT: Proposition 14 is an investment in learning and literacy.

FACT: Proposition 14 does not increase state or local taxes.

FACT: Proposition 14 funds cannot be used by local government for administrative costs.

FACT: Proposition 14 returns money to local communities.

FACT: Proposition 14 provides priority funding to school/library partnerships.

The California Teachers Association says that Proposition 14 is an important part of efforts to improve student performance.

The California Organization of Police and Sheriffs supports Proposition 14, because libraries provide safe environments for students' after-school study.

Lt. Governor Cruz Bustamante supports Proposition 14, because it encourages schools and libraries to work together.

For Libraries, Literacy and Lifelong Learning, Vote Yes On Proposition 14.

Linda Crowe
President, California Library Association

Don Brown
President, California Organization of Police and Sheriffs

Lois Wellington
President, Congress of California Seniors

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