Baltimore Mayor Proposes Cuts to Library Hours

Baltimore Mayor Proposes Cuts to Library Hours

Amid a host of proposed layoffs and city service cuts in Baltimore, Mayor Sheila Dixon suggested March 18 that the Enoch Pratt Free Library cut its branches’ operating hours. The proposed cuts, which would go into effect July 1, would not affect the Central Library but would force four branches that are currently open six days per week to be closed on either Fridays or Mondays, bringing all the branches to a five-day schedule.

The mayor’s proposal, which faces approval by the board of estimates and city council, would likely also affect city recreation centers, swimming pools, and the fire department, and could result in as many as 153 laid-off workers, according to the March 19 Baltimore Sun. However, as Pratt Director of Communications Roswell Encina told American Libraries, “None of this is set in stone.” The library will meet with city hall in the coming weeks to hash out the details. “We’re hoping to work something out with the city,” said Encina.

Encina told AL that the cuts would not lead to branch closures at this time and would have no severe impact to patrons or library staffing. He also noted that these cuts come during a surge in library usage: A March 11 press release reports a 92% increase in the library’s Career Center programs, which include courses on résumé writing and interviewing skills. In the past two weeks, Encina added, the library has also seen an expansion of the types of people using those courses, from primarily blue-collar workers to those seeking professional jobs as well. “The need for public libraries couldn’t be more evident during this recession,” said library Chief Executive Officer Carla D. Hayden. Encina noted that the proposed cuts may challenge the library’s ability to serve its patrons. “It’s the irony of it all,” said Encina.

Posted on March 22, 2009. Discuss.