LA Times: Many libraries go quiet as local budget cuts deepen

Many libraries go quiet as local budget cuts deepen
Branches in Ventura, Colton and elsewhere face closure, reduced hours and layoffs even as public demand for their free Internet access and resume assistance swells.

By David Kelly and Steve Chawkins
November 19, 2009


Reporting from Ventura and Colton - As tax revenues plummet and desperate local governments struggle to close widening deficits, some are looking for cuts in quieter places long considered off limits, like public libraries.

Last week the city of Colton shut down its three libraries and laid off nearly 60 employees to help plug a $5-million hole in its budget. Moves are afoot to shutter a library in Ventura, and other communities are slashing library hours.

"I've never seen such devastation in libraries," said Jackie Griffin, head of Ventura County's system. She recently returned from a meeting of Southern California library officials where more than half reported having to institute furloughs, layoffs and other austerity measures.

The bad times for libraries are coming just as more people are discovering how useful they can be.

"The demand for Internet access alone is phenomenal," said Barbara Roberts, head of the Palm Springs libraries, which are now closed on Mondays. "There are lines out the door every morning." .............(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-libraries-closing19-2009nov19,0,392198.story

and sold off many of the books, libraries always seem to be among some of the first things to go. :-(

Edit: added one word