Library's 2010 proposed budget up by $2M

The Ottawa Public Library board has voted to cut $700,000 from its proposed budget for next year, but it will still be $2 million more than this year.

The library does more than lend books and videos. There are services for job seekers and programs geared to the homeless.

In one section of the library, children of newcomers get one-on-one help with their homework.

"To have this one-on-one twice a week really helps them in terms of parenting, knowing their kids are getting additional help," said Catherine Seaman, co-ordinator of children's and teen's services.

But, like many other city services, Ottawa's libraries are under pressure to cut costs, as city council tries to limit any increase in property taxes when it passes next year's budget.

To cut the $700,000, the board will defer planned services ranging from teen programs to diversity outreach.

Sunday openings

One of the reasons the proposed budget for 2010 is so high is that about a dozen branches will start opening on Sundays during the summer months.

"Sunday is now a big day in the week, whereas back in the old days, a lot of families spent time together. But, in this case, where is a better place to spend time with your family?" said Jan Harder, chair of the library board.

The changes and revisions to the library budget will have to be approved by city council as it struggles to keep property taxes to Mayor Larry O'Brien's desire for a four per cent increase.

In June, the library also announced an ambitious plan to build a new downtown branch just west of where it is now.

The new building would cost $180 million, and would depend of getting funding from all three levels of government.

At the time, Harder said the library would also do some fundraising, and wouldmake moneyby selling the current downtown building. She said she hoped to see the new building open by2014.