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Philadelphia Library Supporters Protest CutbacksMore than 300 library supporters gathered at the Free Library of Philadelphia’s central library February 12 to protest the conversion of 20 branches to half-day service and the layoff of 17 library employees. Carrying signs with messages such as “One City, One Dream: A Strong Library,” demonstrators also brought petitions with more than 10,000 signatures requesting the rollback of cuts.Critics worry about the effects of eliminating professional librarian positions, and some say the changes could overwhelm the branches that still offer full hours, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported February 13. “We are fed up with the latest assault on library services,” said rally organizer Amy Dougherty, executive director of the library’s Friends group. “We want books, we want librarians, and we want open libraries.” Officials stress that the changes will allow all 55 city libraries to offer Saturday hours—which only 10 branches did in 2004—and to be open consistently during peak-use times. “What we’ve done is preserve library service in the city rather than allow it to further deteriorate,” Library Director Elliot Shelkrot told the Inquirer. Speakers at the rally included library union officials, state legislators, Friends of Libraries USA Executive Director Sally Reed, and city Councilman Michael Nutter, who announced plans for a March 17 council hearing on the library situation. Posted February 18, 2005. |
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