Increased dependency on public libraries during time of cuts

For those librarians who haven't heard, ALA has asked the Fed for an economic stimulus infusion for the organization of $100 million (Library Journal article, 11/15/2008).

I guess ALA is arguing that in this time of fiscal crisis, more people across the nation are using public libraries to participate in programs that will increase skills and marketability in this changing job market and adapt to the changing American fiscal landscape. Library programs include resume writing workshops and financial and housing counseling.

Of course, as a librarian I agree with ALA's request. My example comes from the fact that I have seen more people come to the computer lab to print off fresh copies of resumes because he or she has been layed off. Also, more people are coming in to use the job search sites like monster.com.