This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
LA County Library employees say purchasing shift would cut costs
Female student selecting a library book
(
iStockphoto
)
Listen
0:56
LA County Library employees say purchasing shift would cut costs
LA County Library employees say purchasing shift would cut costs
Employees at the 85-branch Los Angeles County Library system are in contract talks. Fearful of job cuts, they urged administrators to adopt a more efficient book-buying plan to save money. More on the story from KPCC’s Adolfo Guzman-Lopez.
Adolfo GUzman-Lopez: Until about five years ago, says Temple City reference librarian Richard Snyder, each county library branch was allowed to buy books depending on local supply and demand. He says that lately, the central office has sent his location trashy novels that will only gather dust on shelves.
Richard Snyder: One book is entitled Strong and Sexy, it shows the picture on the cover of a man and a woman, embracing, kissing, the woman has a very low cut top on. And then the other one, Vision of Seduction.
Guzman-Lopez: The L.A. County Library employs close to 2,000 full- and part-time workers. The employees’ labor union says the library could save $3 million a year by shifting purchasing authority to branches. A spokeswoman said the county librarian had no comment on the union’s cost-saving proposal.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
