WILLOWICK -- The Willoughby-Eastlake library system is one of a record number of libraries statewide with money issues on the November ballot.

Thirty-seven systems statewide are seeking money through levies or bond issue.

Willoughby-Eastlake's four library system serves six communities.

A national library ranking service puts it in the top ten nationwide for libraries its size. But it's struggling.

"We've made cuts everywhere we can in our budget," said director Kathy Williams.

The system now closes Fridays and Sundays.

One hundred workers are on the job four fewer hours a week.

New book orders have been reduced 20 percent.

A landscaping contract has been cancelled. And fundraisers are being held to replace two old vans used to deliver books to homebound readers.

The system is seeking a new levy amounting to almost $31 more a year for a $100,000 home.

Voters just approved a renewal levy last year. The library's administrators debated whether to go back on the ballot so soon.

Williams claims citizen supporters said "let us decide."

The money is needed to fill about a $600,000 budget hole.

That's the result of 30 percent state budget cuts, declining property values and other factors.

This comes at a time when demand for many library services is up.

More users are crowding library computers seeking a job or taking college courses.

Library user Jeff Masci said, "It's very important I don't have access to a computer at home."

Jasmine Whetstone said, "You have many people who depend on coming to the library for help."

If Issue 8 passes, the Willoughby-Eastlake system will restore cuts already made.