EGLIN AFB — Because of budget cuts, the base will temporarily close its library at the end of the month.
Library services will be suspended through Sept. 30.
“A reduction in Eglin’s Fiscal Year 2013 operations and maintenance budget has forced installation leadership to make challenging but necessary decisions that impact base support services,” said Lois Walsh, a spokeswoman for Eglin.
The library is no longer allowing new checkouts or renewals. All library materials should be returned immediately.
The Department of Defense is required to cut $41 billion from its budget by the end of the fiscal year Sept. 30 as part of sequestration.
The 96th Test Wing will have to cut $30 million, or about 20 percent of its budget by then, commander Brig. Gen. David Harris said last month.
In addition to closing the library, the wing has reduced flying hours, eliminated overtime, set thermostats higher and reduced the number of vehicles being used.
Hurlburt Field is implementing similar measures to reduce flying hours, payroll costs and utility expenses, but its library and other programs remain unaffected, a spokesman said Tuesday.
At Eglin, Walsh said because the library closure is temporary, there are no plans to get rid of the materials. The base hopes next year’s budget will allow for the library to reopen.
The book drop in Eglin library’s lobby is accessible 24 hours a day to return loaned materials.
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Lauren Sage Reinlie at 850-315-4443 or lreinlie@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @LaurenRnwfdn.
