We have been talking about change for a while, and there have been a number of changes at the library - hopefully most are ones that have been positive since that was the intent. All these changes were a choice, based on observed issues and needs, developed from a meeting of minds to formulate the best solutions.
Unfortunately, sometimes change is imposed rather than chosen. And there are big changes coming up for everyone that uses the library. Maybe you have been hearing about the drive to reduce the tax rate here in Salem, and reductions inevitably are visible and felt everywhere - and the library is no different.
As of January 1, 2012, the library hours will be reduced. We will be closing at 7PM on Monday and Tuesday nights, and at 2PM on Saturdays.
But that is not the most difficult change for us. The library was asked to absorb a 10% budget reduction and to meet that goal, everything will be reduced and sadly that reduction includes a staff reduction of two. We are very distressed and saddened that two of our wonderful people will be leaving us at the end of the year.
While we will do our best to provide the quality service you have come to expect, covering the kind of services provided by these departing staff members will be difficult. We all hope that you will be understanding as we find our feet as we adjust to these difficult changes.
