It has been about a month since cuts have been made at the Charleston Carnegie Public Library.

Yet, Sheryl Snyder, executive director at the library, said things are going just as they should.

“It’s a bit more hectic, but that is too be expected,” Snyder said.

Eight people have been cut from the staff, three full time and five part time positions, with 13 staff members remaining.

After the $7 million renovation was done, one might think more staff would be needed, but the hard times currently at hand have led the library executives to re-think staffing.

“We had about 250 kids come through last week, July is usually our busiest month,” Snyder said.

“Things sure haven’t slowed down any, but we are getting things done.”

On top of cutting staff, the library has also had to cut back on the hours they are open.

The library is now open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday; from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Friday; from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday; and from 1 until 5 p.m. Sunday.

“We are just like everyone else,” Synder said. “With the times like they are, we are having to cut back just like anyone else.

We are hoping it’s just a one year thing and we will be back to a normal staff next year.”

Synder said despite all of the cuts made circulation is still up.

“We have a lot of good programs and services, none of that has changed,” Snyder said. “I hope people continue to use the library like they have been.”

Kayleigh Zyskowski can be reached at 581-7943 or at kzyskowski@eiu.edu.