Gary's library system has faced big cuts with revenue drop

GARY, Ind. (AP) - The Gary Public Library has been making big cuts as it keeps seeing drops in tax revenue.

A recent state audit shows the library's revenue has fallen from an annual average of $8.5 million between 2008 and 2011 to $5.6 million between 2012 and 2015.

The (Northwest Indiana) Times reports (http://bit.ly/2oAI8B7 ) the library has closed three branches and its 74-person staff by half in the past six years.

The city government and school district have also faced budget troubles as the former economic powerhouse of northwestern Indiana has seen its population drop by about 100,000 people since 1970 to fewer than 80,000 residents.

Library board member Robert Buggs says it plans to reopen the former main library building in downtown Gary later this year by closing another branch.

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Information from: The Times, http://www.nwitimes.com