City to take control of library branches

The city of Providence is preparing take control of the nine neighborhood branch libraries, and it may ultimately take over the Central Library.

The Providence Journal reported that the trustees of the Providence Public Library voted Thursday to begin transferring control of the branches to the city. The organization also said it may have to limit public access to the main library on Empire Street.

Related Link: Providence Public Library

Mayor David Cicilline told the Journal that he’s not sure it makes sense to break up the system. The city has offered to take over the Central Library as well as the branches.

The PPL said it may have to reduce the hours of the downtown branch if it loses city funding.

Library spokeswoman Tonia Mason told NBC 10 News at 5:30 that the mission of the Central Library and the branches differ. She said the main library serves a statewide role, while the branches are focused on Providence neighborhoods.