Reporters appointed under section 2301.18 of the Revised Code may be appointed referees to take and report evidence in causes pending in any of the courts of this state. In the taking of evidence as referees, the reporters may administer oaths to witnesses. They shall be furnished by the board of county commissioners with a suitable room in the courthouse, and with supplies and equipment necessary for the proper discharge of their duties and for the preservation of their notes and electronic records. The notes and electronic records shall be the property of the county and carefully preserved in the office of the reporters.