Some Wake County public libraries could face budget cuts

Raleigh, N.C. — Wake County leaders have asked their libraries to come up with $1.84 million in potential budget cuts.

Library officials said their proposal includes closing branches at Duraleigh, Southgate, Wendell and Athens Drive High, as well as shutting down the Electronic Information Center in downtown Raleigh and a book mobile.

Hours at branch libraries would be cut, and some staff could be laid off.

Officials say the list is only recommendations for reductions, and there are no immediate indication the cuts will be made.

The proposal comes as libraries across the state see an increase in visitors. According to the State Library, nearly 5 million North Carolinians have library cards – an all time high.

Some counties are also reporting a 45 percent increase in computer use at libraries, primarily by those applying for jobs online.