DC Public Libraries Reduce Staff, Programs

Photo courtesy of
‘Wiped-out video shelves at @ArlingtonVALib.’
courtesy of ‘brownpau’

Due to the tightening of its budget, the DC Public Library begins staff reductions today. Most of the current job vacancies will not be filled and an additional 23.5 full time positions are being eliminated, which equates to roughly 40 people. Several programs, including the Youth Outreach Program, have been eliminated and their staff realigned in order to keep as many libraries open as possible. Library hours, however, will not be further reduced.

“The DC Public Library, along with libraries across the country, is facing very difficult economic times,” said Chief Librarian Ginnie Cooper. “We realize that the Mayor and the City Council had tough choices to make with next year’s budget. Even with these reductions, we remain committed to continuing to provide District residents with the service they need and expect.”

The library buildings currently under construction (Deanwood, Watha T. Daniel/Shaw, Georgetown, Tenley, Petworth, Mt. Pleasant, Washington Highlands, and Francis Gregory) will still be completed and opened but the new FY2011 budget doesn’t include any funds to design and build any additional buildings.

Having lived in the DC area for ten years, Ben still loves to wander the city with his wife, shooting lots of photos and exploring all the latest exhibits and galleries. A certified hockey fanatic, he spends some time debating the Washington Capitals club with friends – but everyone knows of his three decade love affair with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

A professional writer, gamer, photographer, and Lego enthusiast, Ben remains captivated by DC and doesn’t plan on leaving any time soon.

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Flickr 

5 thoughts on “DC Public Libraries Reduce Staff, Programs”

  1. Pingback: Tweets that mention DC Libraries Reduce Staff, Programs But just wait until you see how shiny the new buildings are! -- Topsy.com

  2. Pingback: Florida Minute with former senator, Ken Plante

  3. Pingback: The Morning Metropolitan «

  4. Pingback: The Morning Metropolitan « Georgetown Mobile

  5. Among lay offs are for example: a Children Librarian, at Cleveland Park, who have been working for 30 years, for 30 hours was let go. Another children’s librarian, at Tenley is 60 years old, and has Cancer and not insurance, until gets 65, if she survives. One of the he priorities at DCPL is “Children programing.” Fenty and the library administration made a real summer “wave” and “splash” with the children and teen programs