Philly to lose its libraries
Philadelphia, home of America's first library -- invented by Benjamin Franklin, naturally -- is about to lose its own public library system.
The Free Library of Philadelphia has announced that as of Oct. 2, all branches of the system will be closed indefinitely. That means no children's programs, computer classes, public meetings, story hours, GED programs ... the list goes on.
Everyone is aware of just how rough the economy has been lately, but I never imagined a state legislature would be forced to sacrifice a major library system.
"Even as we remain hopeful that the State Legislature will act and pass the enabling funding legislation, we wanted to notify all of our customers of this very possible outcome," President and Director Siobhan Reardon, wrote on the library's Web site. "If you have questions about changes to City services, or if you want to be kept informed about this situation, we encourage you to contact Philly 311 by calling 3-1-1 between the hours of 8am and 8 pm Monday-Friday, and 9am-5pm Saturdays, e-mail philly311@phila.gov, or visit the City of Philadelphia website at
Let's hope the Pennsylvania government can come up with a better solution, and in a hurry.
Comments
Not too surprising. I lived in Harrisburg from 2004-2007 and they were facing some serious closures throughout that time (but managed to pull through). Part of the problem is that the PA govt doesn't see libraries as essentially services. I saw a few quotes back in the day on how libraries are just not needed and some legislators decided they are not worth paying for anymore. Pretty sad all around.
-Matt K
Posted by: Anonymous | September 15, 2009 10:48 AM
This is quite possibly the worst news I've heard all year. Are they SERIOUS?! This is really horrible. :(
Posted by: Heather J. | September 15, 2009 10:53 AM
This is one of the most depressing things I've heard in a long time. Any politician who says that libraries are not essential does not deserve to be in office. Isn't free speech considered to be essential in this country? How can people even begin to speak out for themselves if they have no access to information. And can't city officials see how harmful this could be, in the long run, to Philly's economic future. Who will want to move to, or start a business in, a city that doesn't have public libraries?
Posted by: Patience | September 15, 2009 11:46 AM
This breaks my heart.
Posted by: Eve | September 16, 2009 10:18 AM
What??? This is outrageous! I used to use the library all the time when I lived in Philadelphia. It was very helpful when I was a teacher and didn't have have enough money to buy books for for students. I was able to take out the library books and bring them into the classroom so students could use them since the school certainly didn't have any for them. This is so depressing. I hope they find a solution soon.
Posted by: Dawn | September 16, 2009 1:59 PM
That's horrible. Many people are cutting back at home, the librairy is the only source for internet, print papers & magazines for some kids. :(
Posted by: Michelle Johnston | September 17, 2009 2:30 PM
I mentioned this writing the Sunpapers- who will not publish my letter (too radical) - as I was talking about lay offs at Maryland Public Television (MPT).
To me it is a matter of socialism viz a viz capitalism. MPT, like the Philly libraries, is clearly head and shoulders above other television, just as libraries are clearly a public need.
A society that values profits over people- that cannot pass health care reform quickly, that overfunds its military- what can you say.
I think people who read go further than those who simply watch tv. Very sad.
Posted by: david eberhardt | September 18, 2009 2:44 PM