For those who take the local library and its services for granted, read the article linked below.
Can't happen here?
The main library in this book-loving city is an architectural landmark: a daring, contemporary temple to the written word that draws tourists as well as literary locals and those who just want a place to sit, read, rest or think.
Just don't try checking anything out, returning an overdue book or even logging onto the online catalog this week. The city's entire library system — from its branches to book drops to Web site — is shut down to save money.
"I think it's a very sad day — week — for the city of Seattle that they can't access their local library, which is one of the most heavily used libraries in the country," said Nancy Pearl, the city's ex-librarian superstar and the author of "Book Lust," a best-selling tribute to the joy of reading.
Read the rest at: The Associated Press: Seattle libraries close for week to save money:
This is the natural outcome of unchecked government spending. Seattle citizens ought to be outraged that their elected officials have created a $43 million budget gap.
As for the Franklin Public Library, its total 2009 budget is $1.3 million and was approved with a nearly $50,000 shortfall.
Posted by: Fred Keller | September 08, 2009 at 07:55 AM
Proposition 13, my friend. What California wrought in the late '70s has been destroying us ever since. Public amenities are now rarer than Cracker Jack prizes made of anything other than paper.
Posted by: John Michlig | September 08, 2009 at 08:59 AM