The Oklahoma Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped in Oklahoma City may have to close its doors July 1 if a proposed budget cut is approved by the state legislature. The state, which is experiencing revenue shortfalls, has asked agencies to project the effects of a 10, 15, or 20% cut in funding for FY 2004. Library Director Geraldine Adams told American Libraries that a 20% cut would force the facility to close, while 10 or 15% cuts would lead to staff reductions or furloughs and possible hour reductions.
The library, which serves 5,300 patrons per year and lends 1,500 books per day, has asked patrons to contact state legislators to voice their concerns. The campaign, according to Adams, has generated “a large response.” The library’s current budget of $1.7 million has already been trimmed by a 3% cut at the beginning of FY 2003 and another cut of 6.5% during the year.
If the library closes, it will be the first such library in the United States to close due to budget constraints. Adams told AL that “a state law requires these services to be provided, so they’d have to change the law to close the library.” Gov.Brad Henry will present his budget to the legislature this spring, and a final decision on budgeting will be made at the end of May.
Posted February 3, 2003.