Money problems will force the  Seattle Public Library system to close for one week, starting August 29, according to a library press release.

Seattle is facing a $67 million budget deficit, and in order to help close that gap the library’s budget for FY11 has been cut $3.7 million. The week-long closure will save about $650,000. During the closure, the library’s 640 employees will not be paid.

“Unfortunately the Library has limited options when dealing with cuts of this magnitude,” said Lin Schnell, the library’s interim chief executive officer. “Without the closure, we would have had to cut more operating hours or further reduce the book budget.”

The book budget has been reduced, positions have been eliminated and 2010 cuts to branch hours have continued this year. Fifteen branches are only open 35 hours a week.

“There weren’t any easy choices,” Schnell said.

No materials will be due during the week and no fines charged. There will be limited access to the library’s website and online catalog during the closure.

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Tags: Seattle

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