48 pink slips issued at Cincy and Hamilton County PubLibs

The Reader’s Shop sends “this bad news.
Budget cuts at the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County became a reality this week as 48 pink slips were issued.

The main library’s government and public documents departments bore the brunt of the cuts.All 28 employees in the department got notices that their jobs will disappear June 30. Other cuts came in the facilities department and administrative departments such as human resources and information systems. 10 vacant slots will also not be filled. A total of 23 positions will be created to replace and combine these positions. Employees will have to apply for those jobs.

More cuts along with Sunday closing at the main branch, may be necessary if funding cuts pass the State General Assembly. The state budget must be completed by June 30

Ohio’s proposal to freeze library funding statewide this year and cut it by 5 percent next year would cost the library in Cincinnati $1.4 million this year and $2.4 million next year.

More information is available at the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County’s website and Library Journal and American Libraries.