The governor has proposed slashing state aid to several entities, including preschool, Medicaid and the library system.

Proposed cuts include $227.3 million in funding to libraries.

According to a press release, 70% of the state’s libraries, including Marion, rely only on state funding and late fees.

Mark Rose, director of the Marion Public Library, says the proposed cuts would cut their budget in half.

If the proposed budget is passed, Rose says they will have to look at cuts in programming for children, teens and adults, reduced internet access, fewer new books and videos and reduced hours. Library branches in Caledonia, LaRue and Prospect also face reduced hours and possible closure.