The Public Library: "It's part of our life."

Link to February 18 Reno Gazette-Journal article, "Washoe budget cuts could close 3 libraries". (via Twitter) Syst

The current budget of $8.1 million for the Washoe County Library is 39% less than the $13 million in 2008-2009. Considered by county officials as "non-essential" services, libraries and parks have been cut disproportionately.

Excerpt: Several library patrons said the county should find a way to keep libraries open, rating them just below police and fire as what they consider important to them.

"I think it's terrible," said Joe Sewell, a Cold Springs resident who was outside the Sierra View library. He said his family visits that and the North Valleys branch often. His grandchildren are home-schooled.

He said the county should give workers options of furloughs, reduced workweeks or pay cuts as the state has done to keep everyone on the job.

Terry Fletcher of Stead said her grandchildren enjoy story hour, music and other cultural programs at the North Valleys branch and visit every Tuesday night.

"It's part of our life," she said.