Not sure if you’ve noticed that your town is a little less literate lately, but many public libraries have closed for a few weeks–end of August/first week of September–to try and make up budget deficits.

Seattle, for example.

The city was $43 million in the hole and every department had to make cuts. After looking at several options the library department came up with the week long furlough. About 700 employees were NOT paid for the week. In all about $655,000 was saved.

It all comes down to money.

Or does it?

Here’s my idea: what if public libraries were to remain closed on Sundays? You know, the way people have lived for centuries. Taking a day off. A Sabbath’s rest.

Maybe one thing we need, as a culture, is to slow down and take a breath. You may not agree that it’s a spiritual necessity, but few would say that they don’t need a break from routine.

And if we need a break, so do librarians. Maybe not causing someone to work–librarians, grocery store clerks, gas station attendants–maybe it’s all a part of the idea of a Sunday break. Giving yourself a break. Giving others a break.

And who knows? Maybe the savings will help the government get back in the black. Miracles can happen!