In an executive session with the City Council today, Memphis mayor Willie Herenton proposed closing five libraries and four community centers as of July 1, 2008.
The closures — including the downtown Cossitt branch, as well as the Highland, Levi, Gaston Park, and Poplar-White Station libraries — would result in a $1.5 million to $2 million savings to the city.
“We have a good library system, but I want it to get better. It’s not as efficient as I want it to get,” the mayor told the council.
In December, long-time library head Judith Drescher was not reappointed to her position. Former Public Services and Neighborhoods director Keenon McCloy was appointed in Drescher’s place. (Read previous Flyer stories about the situation.)
–Mary Cashiola
