Less than two weeks after its dedication, the new Arizona $38 million Polly Rosenburg Archives & History Building closes today, the latest consequence of the state’s budget problems. The building opened late last fall and was dedicated in mid-January. This is just the latest in what seems to be an avalanche of cuts and closures in archives and libraries that genealogists use on a daily basis.
Yesterday, agency Director Gladys Ann Wells announced the closure. The building’s closure is through June 30, the end of the fiscal year.
Researchers can access documents housed in the new building at 19th Avenue and Monroe Street, but only on a limited basis and by appointment.
State Research Library Cutting Hours
The state research library is also cutting its hours to four a day, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The state museum last month started closing an hour earlier, at 4 p.m., and ended its Saturday hours.
Wells has cut her archives staff to three – down from 13. Salary and benefits were the only place where she could make substantial cuts, which means reduced operating hours.
Information on agency hours and contact information is available at azlibrary.gov or by calling 602-926-4035.
Read more about the closing in the March 4, 2009 edition of the Arizona Republic.
The endless tax cuts we have had here in Arizona are finally bearing fruit. If a certain group of politicians have their way, all of our cultural institutions in this state will be closing.