No state aid to libraries mean counties have to shoulder more of the costs

                The Franklin County Public Library says it is not seeking a budget increase this year, but because of deep cuts in state aid to libraries. Franklin County will have to kick in an extra 22 thousand dollars just to keep library funding at current levels.

County library director Anne Birchwell said the pain is being felt across the state – Jefferson County libraries are losing more than 77 thousand in state aid and Wakulla county about 9400 dollars.

Miss Birchwell said it is imperative that the library remain fully funded – the library provides a number of necessary services including food stamp applications, unemployment and social security benefits.

The library has also been able to help seafood workers by providing computer services to those who needed to see on-line video training programs.  

If the county can’t make up the loss it possible the library would likely lose an employee and the Carrabelle branch might have to close one day a week.

Franklin County Commissioners said they will consider the issue very seriously during the budget workshops.

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