Drive Heats Up to Keep Camarillo Libraries Public

Public libraries are supposed to be available to everyone…for free. But the Camarillo City Council will be taking a vote on Oct. 13 that could put public library services at risk.

Local tax dollars could be given to a for-profit Maryland based company (LSSI) owned by a private equity firm that even The New York Times recently investigated. (“Anger as a Private Company Takes Over Libraries,” Sept. 26, 2010). Currently Camarillo residents are served by the Ventura County Public Library.
 
“Today books, periodicals and materials are available for free for anyone with a library card but what about tomorrow, please join me at the Camarillo City Council meeting and speak up for public library services.”  Mary Birch, Ventura County Library Tech II

Nearby Santa Clarita has faced a storm of protest over its decision to sell off libraries to LSSI without real public input. Click here to read more about Santa Clarita residents opposing the library sell-off.

Facts About LSSI and privatized libraries:
• Lost its contract in Linden, NJ for failure to pay its bills on time.
• Lost its contract with Fargo, ND for failure to pay its bills on time and after requesting a 28 percent budget increase.
• Experts and the American Library Association agree that privatizing library services will mean decreased access and local control.
• Failed in its bid to take over libraries in Passaic, NJ; Bedford, Texas; Hernando, FL; Nevada County and Truckee Friends of the Library; and Dartmouth Public Libraries, MA.

Librarians and public library services are available to children and families, students and especially now job seekers. County librarians and volunteers are screened and have background checks.

Act Now! Help Save Camarillo Public Library
 
• Attend the Oct. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Camarillo City Council meeting and speak up for quality library services.  Address:  601 Carmen Rd
 
• Call or email the Camarillo City Council.  Urge them to work together and maintain quality public library services for Camarillo residents through the Ventura County Library System. 
 
Camarillo City Council (Kevin Kildee- Mayor, Mike Morgan-Vice Mayor, Charlotte Craven, Jan McDonald and Don Wanuch-Council Members)
 
Email and phone numbers are the same for all:  council@ci.camarillo.ca.us or (805) 388-5307