The Wetzel County Commission room was packed Tuesday morning as representatives from each library in the county met to discuss their budget. Members present were: Weldon Williams, Pine Grove Public Library Board; Susan Reily, regional director for Miracle Valley Regional Library; Joanna Casto, Paden City Public Library director; Kathy Eastham, Hundred Public Library Board; Linnea Kumher, Hundred Public Library; and Janet Conn, New Martinsville Public Library.

After showing much gratitude for the county commission’s generous donations in the past, the library representatives expressed their need for additional funds.

Even with the many fundraisers and tax-based aid, the libraries need more money to match the state grant in aid.

In this difficult economic time, area libraries expressed their employees were taking cuts in hours and pay to make ends meet. “We are still trying to serve the community,” said Janet Conn from the New Martinsville Library. “We serve whomever comes through the door.”

Joanna Casto from the Paden City Library commented that many citizens rely on the library for computer access, particularly in searching and applying for jobs online.

The commission explained that their donation comes from the funds leftover at the end of July. The commission advised each library to send a letter to request a donation and whatever funds were leftover would be distributed. Those present were assured they would have the commission’s support.

In other matters, Dana Indermuhle from Swiss Valley Associates met with the commission for updates on the courthouse portico ceiling project. The Wetzel County Commission is very close to coming to a contracted agreement and the project will soon be underway.