March 22, 2011

Chevy Chase Library Faces Possible Staff Cuts

Never underestimate the power of local citizenry to effect change. A group of ardent book lovers hopes to do just that. It didn’t matter that their regular meeting space at the Chevy Chase Library was occupied. The kitchen in the back of the library, with its small table and homey feel, would have to do. Time is of the essence when a neighborhood library is on the chopping block.

Members of the Library Advisory Committee for Chevy Chase and the Friends of the Library, Chevy Chase Chapter met March 16, and County Executive Isiah Leggett’s proposed budget cuts occupied much of the conversation.

“We are the library board. We have the opportunity to articulate our concerns," said Otto Lewis, Library Advisory Committee member of the Montgomery County Library Board.

Lee Farber, co-chair of the Library Advisory Committee for Chevy Chase, fired back, “We’ve met with [Roger] Berliner, [Nancy] Floreen and [George] Leventhal,” insisting their message was delivered. “Libraries are core, and yet they all voted to cut the budget.”

Under Leggett’s operating budget proposal for fiscal year 2012, 32 positions at county libraries will be abolished, according to Eric Carzon, business manager, Montgomery County Public Libraries. Chevy Chase Library is proposed to change from 12 positions to seven positions (full- and part-time), Carzon said March 18. SOURCE: Chevy Chase Patch

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