Province cuts money for libraries

The latest chapter in budget cuts is bad news for Saskatchewan libraries.

The province has eliminated funding for the public libraries in both Regina and Saskatoon — a move that will shave $1.3 million from spending. It could also put pressure on local taxpayers to fill the gap.

The seven regional library systems are also seeing a cut in provincial support — $3.5 million less, resulting in operating funding of $2.5 million.

Funding for the northern library system is pegged at $974,000, which is "consistent" with previous support, according to budget documents released Wednesday.