Libraries busy during down times, part 2

From an article in the Wall Street Journal:

"This isn't the first time library attendance has spiked in a downturn. The 1987 and 2001 recessions saw similar jumps, librarians say. But few people thought that libraries would again be in such favor after so much information flooded the Web.

One big draw: Most libraries have put in free computer and Wi-Fi service. And they've begun stocking DVDs and videogames. With the recession weighing on them, "people recognize what a great value the public library is," says Jim Rettig, president of the American Library Association in Chicago."

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Meanwhile, we're preparing for budget reductions for FY2010 of 5% and I consider that fair, even as I know the need for resources will go up, compared with what some libraries in some states face.