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April 10, 2010

Library cuts make it harder for unemployed

Posted By Bob Ingle On April 9, 2010 (3:00 pm) In Uncategorized
Article taken from Politics Patrol - http://blogs.app.com/politicspatrol

In the old days you went to the library to check out a book you didn't want to own or maybe read an out of state newspaper. In the Internet age libraries have taken on a new importance, being the places where one can connect to the Web. In times of high unemployment that's especially true since so many employers want the application filled out on line. So with the proposed cuts to libraries in Gov. Christie's budget, there is a big problem for the unemployed because the Internet may be unplugged. Many people have cut their Internet connection at home to save money, using the library's. The current year's budget for library services is $14 million. Christie's budget cuts that to $3.6 million. There's also a 50 percent cut in aid to local libraries. It couldn't come at a worse time since library visits are up everywhere, probably because of unemployment. The state is in big trouble financially. Cuts have to be made across the board but this one will make it a harder for the unemployed. Maybe the state Labor Department can help find a way to keep libraries connected to the Web and to potential employers who only deal with the Net. Perhaps there is a federal grant available.

Posted by tumulty at April 10, 2010 3:24 PM

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