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Enoch Pratt Library to Close Five BranchesBaltimore’s Enoch Pratt Free Library announced plans March 7 to close five of its 26 branches by the end of the year and possibly another five by 2006. Director Carla Hayden said the decision was based on a shrinking budget and a city population that has been dwindling by nearly 1,000 residents monthly, the Baltimore Sun reported March 8. “No librarian wants to close a library,” Hayden said, “but no librarian wants to preside over a declining system.” Library officials have scheduled four public meetings in April to solicit feedback from the community before making a decision in June on which branches to close. The announcement prompted immediate complaints from concerned residents. “Unbelievable,” community activist and Charles Village resident Jane Shipley told the Sun. “It makes me totally sick. I could just spit nickels.” The library’s current budget is $27 million, nearly half of which comes from the city. Director of Administrative Services Gordon Krabbe said the library has asked for $19.8 million for fiscal year 2002 but could receive $2 million less. Posted March 12, 2001. |
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