Ed. Code, § 18701

The Legislature finds and declares that it is in the interest of the people of the state to ensure that all people have free and convenient access to all library resources and services that might enrich their lives, regardless of where they live or of the tax base of their local government. This finding is based on the recognition that:

(a) The public library is a primary source of information, recreation, and education to persons of all ages, any location, or any economic circumstance.

(b) The expansion of knowledge and the increasing complexity of our society creates a need for materials and information that goes beyond the ability of any one library to provide.

(c) The public libraries of California are supported primarily by local taxes. The ability of local governments to provide adequate service is dependent on the taxable wealth of each local jurisdiction and varies widely throughout the state.

(d) Public libraries are unable to bear the greater costs of meeting the exceptional needs of many residents, including people with disabilities, non-English-speaking and limited-English-speaking persons, those who are confined to home or in an institution, and those who are economically disadvantaged.

(e) The effective sharing of resources and services among the libraries of California requires an ongoing commitment by the state to promote access to information in both print and digital format.