Ben Zenitsky is the Media Specialist at the Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML). It's not opinion, but fact that Ohio has some of the best library systems in terms of funding – due to a unique structure. Ben shares more on how libraries embed themselves in their communities, the role the library plays in helping with declining literacy rates, and more. 

Timestamps: 

0:00: Ben's Intro

1:18: How Ohio libraries are unique in their funding

3:30: What libraries are impacted the most by funding cuts?

4:44: How could funding cuts impact CML?

5:50: House Bill 96

7:16: New CEO at CML

8:03: New projects at CML

11:03: What does “a library of the 21st century” mean?

14:08: How are branches designed for each community?

15:37: Culture Passes

17:29: Eliminating overdue fines

18:46: Declining literacy rates

22:05: Message to someone who doesn’t understand the impact of library funding

23:31: Exciting things happening this year

26:19: Concerns and excitement looking to the future

27:56:  closing thoughts

Welcome to the Columbus Chronicle! This is a podcast dedicated to Columbus and central Ohio. Join host Connor Dunwoodie and meet the people, learn the places, and hear the stories from the people who make this city what it is.