Washington State Library Budget Cuts—Effective Now

Posted by: Kristy L. CoomesOctober 8 2010 12:51 PM

The Washington State Library's (WSL) portion of the Governor's budget cuts, effective October 1, 2010, is $364,214. This is based on the portion of general fund-state (state funds) that it receives as a division—about 45% of the state funds allotted to the Office of the Secretary of state (OSOS).

Dr. Rand Simmons, Acting State Librarian, will need to present a plan as to how to take the cuts to OSOS management by mid-October. Thankfully, under the guidance of retired State Librarian Jan Walsh, WSL previously froze four positions as a preemptive measure. So, the State Library is well on its way to addressing the cuts. Dr. Simmons's hope is to minimize layoffs.

But, other cuts will need to be made. Staff are encouraged to take voluntary leave without pay to help contribute to the cause. Rand and several managers are already planning to take voluntary leave without pay.

Past budget cuts have forced the library staff to reduce the number of service desks from three to two. The reference and genealogy desks have been combined, and other changes will need to be made because of reduced staffing.

The State Library is requesting that WSL Friends not contact the Governor, legislators, or the Office of Financial Management at this time. These are across the board cuts to all state agencies for which the Governor has statutory authority.