Even though library usership is spiking across the country as a result of the recession, book-buying budgets, library hours, and staff numbers are taking a hit. That’s the case in Austin and Albert Lea, according to the Albert Lea Tribune. Both cities are facing budgetary challenges as a result of cut LGA.
Libraries deal with budget reductions, Albert Lea Tribune, 9/2/09
In Austin, ”a librarian position open as the result of a retirement is not expected to be filled until 2011, and the city’s preliminary budget for the library in 2010 is slightly smaller than the original 2009 budget…’We’re a full staff person short,’ [librarian Ann] Hokanson said. ‘It’s been a very stressful summer.’”
In Albert Lea, “Library Director Peggy Havener said the library has proposed cutting open hours from 55 to 44 during the week, which could mean two less days of operation.
In addition, the Albert Lea Public Library is planning on cutting three part-time employees, while reducing the hours for two more part-time staffers.
While the cuts still need city council approval, Havener said they are likely to go forward and speak toward the dire situation facing the library.
‘It’s the only way we really had to go,’ she said. ‘It’s not something we want to do.’”