Construction at the South Duke Street building in LaFayette is ongoing, although library leaders, faced with drastic budget cuts, worry about how well they will be able to staff and operate the newly-renovated space once it opens next fall. (Messenger photo/Christi McEntyre)
For three hours Thursday evening, attendees can enjoy wine and cheese tasting, hors d'ouerves and even get pictures taken with Santa, all while supporting a good cause.
In the almost two months since the Cherokee Regional Library System has had to put in place drastic cost-cutting changes – including reduced service days and hours and the reduction of staff, benefits and work time – even more funding issues have been emerging for the four-library system. Due to the inability of local governments to provide the same level of financial support as in years prior, tough decisions have had to be made in neighboring Dade County as well, and the library is hoping that the local community will show their support Thursday night to help preserve and maintain what remains of the Walker County libraries.
In Rossville, an unpopular proposed tax rate hike, part of which would be used to fund the Rossville Library, will be discussed during its final public hearings on Sept. 10. Should the rate hike increase move forward against tough public opposition, it will provide approximately $67,000 to the ailing Rossville Library.
The three contributing Walker County libraries in the Cherokee Regional Library System receive upwards of $158,000 per year from the county general budget, to be divided between them. July 1 cuts to the appropriations received from the Walker County school board -- 50 percent of previous years' apportioned dollars -- and a sudden sharp increase in health insurance costs have forced the LaFayette-Walker County Library to reduce its operations to 30 per week as well as limit its availability of the history room, which houses many documents and sources that cannot be found elsewhere.
For more information about the Christmas in August event or to purchase tickets, please contact the LaFayette-Walker County Library at (706) 638-2992.
Where: One-Eleven restaurant in LaFayette
When: Thursday, Aug. 30, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
What: Wine and cheese tasting, hors d’ourvres and a silent auction
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there from 5-7 p.m. for pictures. The perfect opportunity to make and order this year’s family photo for Christmas cards!
Price: $15 per person, $25 per couple
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