Martins Ferry's Library Director says if these cuts go through, several libraries in Belmont County may have to shut down.

Library Director Yvonne Myers says when she heard the news of the proposed cuts, she felt as though she'd been kicked in the stomach.

The funding cuts recommended by Governor Ted Strickland would reduce libraries by $112.5 million in fiscal year 2010 and $114.8 in fiscal year 2011.

Myers says that would cut the Martins Ferry Library System by 50 percent.

And they've already been cut 20 percent in 2009.

With branches in Bridgeport, Powhatan, Bethesda, Shadyside and Flushing plus a Bookmobile, Myers says this would mean closing down several libraries.

"I can't say exactly what decisions we would make," said Myers. "But at this point, there is no way we can support five branches, a bookmobile, and continue service as we have so far. With a 50 percent cut or more, we'd have to cut 50 percent of the hours, 50 percent of the staff, 50 percent of everything just to keep going. And so it's going to be a lot of hard decisions."

Myers says people use libraries more than ever in hard financial times, for free entertainment, children's programs, internet access and help in job searches.

She suggests citizens who support the libraries should call the governor and legislators, who are considering the cuts and will make the final decision on June 30.

Myers suggests calling the following officials:

Governor Ted Strickland at (614) 466-3555 Senator Jason Wilson at (614) 466-6508 Representative John Domenick at (614) 466-3735

Library patrons can also find out more by logging on to mfpl.org