Cabell County libraries plan for cuts if levy passes

CABELL COUNTY, WV (WOWK) – The Cabell County Public Library system has been forced to create a plan of action because of a major loss in funding on the line this election season.

The Cabell County Board of Education’s excess levy on the ballot is different from previous years. This levy would instead allocate a fixed dollar amount between 2025 and 2030 that would not grow with tax collections, which could lead to diminishing money each year.

The libraries are now prepared to reduce library hours, place a freeze on hiring, remove positions, decrease programs, close some libraries, and even lay off employees if it comes down to it.

“Last year, thousands of individuals in Cabell County used our public computers. We had hundreds of thousands of materials checked out in both electronic and prep format – almost 500,000 materials to be exact. We provided thousands of programs for children, teens and adults. We have over 120,000 registered library cardholders. Almost 200,000 individuals walk through our doors. Simply put, our libraries are well loved and utilized,” said Breana Bowen, Cabell County Public Library director.

According to the Cabell County Public Library’s Facebook page, any adjustments to the system will be dependent on the changing budget.

Early voting in West Virginia begins Wednesday, May 1.

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