O’FALLON, Mo. – The proposal to permanently close three branches of the St. Charles City-County Library District has sparked opposition from city leaders in O’Fallon and residents.
At a recent O’Fallon City Council meeting, the council unanimously passed a resolution supporting the keeping open of all library facilities.
Mayor Bill Hennessy of O’Fallon emphasized the importance of literacy and public institutions in American values, stating that closing libraries in a growing community contradicts these values.
The three libraries at risk of closure are McClay Library in St. Charles, Kisker Library near Weldon Springs, and Deer Run Library in O’Fallon.
Library district CEO Jason Kuhl attributed the projected budget shortfall to the rising costs of electronic books, with the library spending approximately $50,000 per month on e-books.
He also mentioned proximity as a concern, pointing out that these three branches are close to other county libraries.
Mayor Hennessy disagreed with the notion of closing these branches, stating that it would not be beneficial for families looking to move to the county or for attracting new businesses to the area.
The library board is set to vote on the proposal next month.
