The difficulty in finding ways to improve Jacksonville libraries was on full display Wednesday night as consultants studying how to streamline the system met with the public for the first time.

In short, you can't please everyone.

At one of the meetings, at the Webb Wesconnett branch, almost all 30 people in attendance suggested potential fixes.

Some wanted quieter libraries, with mandatory signs requesting that cell phones be turned off. Others said cut branch hours but don't cut resources such as DVDs and CDs, while others argued the opposite. Most people said keeping the doors open should be the library's No. 1 priority.

Several people said the library board members should not pick and choose branches to cut hours. It was a reference to this summer when board members cut hours at five locations, a decision that provoked the ire of many library patrons.

"If you are going to cut hours, it should be across the board," said John Peck, who echoed the sentiment of many in attendance.

Library board member Mark Wood stressed that the toughest issue he and his colleagues face is whether to spend money on new materials or simply keep the doors open.

"Our first priority is to have a quality library system. That is why we have been reluctant to cut our resources budget," Wood said in explaining the hours cuts over reductions in other areas.

Two more meetings will be from 7 to 8:30 p.m. today for residents to speak directly to the library consultants. Those meetings will be at Bradham- Brooks Northwest branch, 1755 Edgewood Ave. W., and the Mandarin branch, 3330 Kori Road.

In addition, the consultants will be holding meetings in January to give updates on their progress. Their final report is due in February.

matt.dixon@jacksonville.com, (904) 359-4174

Link: http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2010-09-15/story/library-board-h...