Newark Public Library Cuts

The Newark Public Library has made major cuts to services and staff for the second half of 2010 in the "biggest budget crisis in its history," according to an NPL news release. NPL had to lay off 31 out of 188 workers, shut down all branches on Saturdays, and will permanently close two of ten branch locations at the end of August.

Meanwhile, remaining staffers must take 38 unpaid furlough days over the court of the year--more than seven weeks' worth.

Beginning August 16, NPL will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays because of staff furloughs. The Main Library will be open only four days per week, from Wednesday through Saturday.

The eight remaining branch locations will be open three days per week, Wednesday through Friday.

Jerry Caprio, president of the Friends of the NPL, is asking residents to contact their elected officials and show their support for NPL - view Library Support Doc.

Tonight - July 21st - there is a community meeting at 6pm at the VanBuren branch.