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Ottawa Selects Three Branches for ClosingTrustees at the Ottawa (Ontario) Public Library have chosen three branches from a list of six that might have to close in order to eliminate a shortfall of $1.6 million ($1.2 million U.S.) in its budget. The Blackburn Hamlet, Sunnyside, and Vanier branches were selected because they are close to other libraries and serve small populations of users, the Ottawa Citizen reported March 6. City Librarian Barbara Clubb told the paper that she expected an outcry from those communities. “It is always difficult to close branches,” she said. “Residents feel libraries are part of the community.” Approximately 22 staff members will be affected, although some could relocate to other branches. Library board Chair Rick Chiarelli defended the Ottawa library system as the most efficient in Canada, but said it had to do its part “in solving the budget problem.” Some city council members were concerned about the closures. “We have to reconsider the whole question of shutting down libraries,” said Councilor Georges Bedard, in whose ward the Vanier branch is located. “We should be increasing the number of libraries and should be encouraging people to use them.” Public hearings are scheduled March 15–18 on the proposal, and the library board will meet March 22 to make a final decision. Posted March 12, 2004. |
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