In doing some research on libraries and the economy, I came upon an interesting blog, Impromtu Librarian, published by a libraian at the University of Minnesota in Rochester, Minnesota. Her comment regarding librarians having to educate local government officials regarding the importance of keeping our libraries open during tough economic times is very valid. I guess in hard times we need to promote our libraries more than ever.

"12 Ways Libraries are Good for the Country"

I found a great article "12 Ways Libraries Are Good for the Country" in the ALA and thought you might like to check it out. It breaks down why libraries still need to be funded during economic hard times. The libraries have seen a surge in patron use during this recession and these 12 simple ideals help bring focus to the importance of libraries in our society.

http://www.ala.org/ala/alonline/resources/selectedarticles/12wayslibraries.cfm

Got a grain of salt?

CAVEAT: The source is CBS, stained by Dan Rather's manufactured facts (translation: he's a liar.) But taken with the proverbial grain of salt, maybe there's a worthwhile kernel in there..
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/02/02/eveningnews/main4770599.shtml

Even non-readers are hitting the libraries (for web-access)

From this article, some folks are using the libraries for the free web-access. Is that such a good thing? What's next, free phone calls served with a free lunch? And who's paying for it? Not O-ba-ma.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/02/28/recession.libraries/index.html

Have a peek!

Time to cut the cord? (or the bill?)

I thought this was interesting, since it mentions people going to the library because they've cut their internet access bill. Hmmm. Also the bit about the kid section being used more, as I've heard the complaint about people using (abusing?) the library as a day care joint. Here's da link....http://www.ajc.com/services/content/metro/stories/2009/03/14/recession_libraries_busy.html?cxtype=rss&cxsvc=7&cxcat=13

Libraries in Bosta

http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2009/01/03/the_library___a_recession_sanctuary/
Here's a little story about libraries in recessionary times in Boston. A few quotes are included from our illustrious President. Well, since "earmarks" have been banned, perhaps libraries will follow suit.

21st Century Librarian

This is a great video from the New York Times. The video was published on February 15, 2009 about a 21st Century Librarian named Stephanie Rosalia. Stephanie Rosalia is known at her school as the "information specialist."

http://video.nytimes.com/video/2009/02/15/arts/1194837851726/the-21st-century-librarian.html