[Publib] Deep cuts at Phoenix Public Library

[Joe Schallan]

On January 5 the Phoenix City Manager forwarded to Mayor and Council a draft city budget with recommended reductions. The proposal requests a 27.3 percent reduction for the Library, totaling $10,619,000 and resulting in the elimination of 138.5 FTE (full-time equivalent) positions. 

Hours of operation will also be affected. If Mayor and Council approve the budget, effective March 2 Phoenix's new systemwide hours will be

Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 11 am to 7 pm
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday – 9 am to 5 pm
Sunday – closed

This represents a reduction from 72 hours per week to 48 hours per week.

Citizens will be asked for feedback on the draft budget through a series of public hearings. Mayor and Council will consider citizen comments before rendering a final decision on the budget at their meeting on February 3.

Phoenix currently has about 100 FTE positions vacant, so, if the draft budget is adopted, approximately 40 layoffs may be required.

I should add that though I live in Phoenix, I am not an employee -- I work for one of the suburban library systems.  As a Phoenix Public Library patron, I am distressed -- they do a very fine job and have been both innovative and highly responsive to special needs. 

Joe Schallan
Phoenix