Libraries and the Economy

Here's a summary of what many libraries across the country are doing in these tough economic times.
Ohio - Unlike Texas, Ohio libraries receive most of their funding from the state. The governor is proposing cuts of more than $200 million for libraries. The Ohio Library Council has waged a very visible media campaign to save their libraries. View it at http://saveohiolibraries.com/. Since the budget cuts are proposed at this time, there are no announced closings or layoffs. The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County is seeking a five-year, one-mill levy on the city's ballot. If the levy does not pass, PLCHC will close 15 to 20 branches out of 40.
Seattle - Seattle Public is expecting $1 million in cuts and will limit check outs and impose extra fees. Currently, users can check out up to 100 (!) items but that will be reduced to 50. Users will also be allowed only 25 holds. ILL use is currently free, but customers will have to pay $5 per transaction beginning in October. They will also impose fines for children's materials and increase nonresident card fees. The library will also close for one week in September - http://www.spl.org/default.asp?pageID=info_visit_holidays_budgetcuts.
New York City - Originally, a 22% budget cut was proposed for three of New York City's library systems - Queens, Brooklyn and NY. The drastic cuts were restored somewhat and kept the libraries open 6 days a week and avoided any massive layoffs. This was due to a strong cry from the public supporting libraries. I came across this site http://www.support.nypl.org/ which I thought you might find interesting. It promotes different membership fees for library groups.
Muncie, Indiana - Closed two of five locations June 1 and converted a third location to a noncirculating genealogy facility. The library has already reduced from 78 FTEs to 63 FTEs and will lose an additional 20 positions later this year. Check out their "Tough Times, Tough Choices" site on their budget at http://www.munpl.org/default.asp?PageIndex=726.
California - Libraries are suffering a double dose of budget woes. Not only is the state slashing library funding, but the state is also borrowing from local governments and that reduces local funding to libraries as well. Every type of public library will be affected. Santa Cruz will cut $1.2 million from its $12.6 million budget resulting in reduced hours, decreased materials and raised fees and fines. The state library of California will also close several days a month due to enforced furloughs for employees.