Tallahassee, FL – Its time for Floridians to rally around their libraries and make sure they have the support the need '
The old book-and-dust libraries of the 20th century are becoming obsolete. In their place, stands the 21st century version- libraries filled with computers, DVD's, wellness centers, even government access information to agencies like the Department of Children and Families and community outreach services- services that, say Charlie Parker, president of the Florida Library Association, are essential to the community.
They have evolved into modern gateways essential to the success of our communities. We are here to ask the public to be mindful of the value of libraries '
But the libraries are struggling. Shorter hours, reduced services and hiring freezes have left 30 positions unfilled in Leon County alone. And, says Parker, it will only get worse.
Were seeing a lot of eliminated positions .book budgets, hour reductions this is just the first round '
Even though the legislature did hold the state's libraries harmless in the most recent legislative session, there is no guarantee that they will do the same in the future. For WFSU-FM, I'm Lynn Hatter.