Budget would cut library’s Internet service

Dozens of libraries around the state, including the Haines Borough Public Library, are concerned about recent cuts by the House and Senate finance committees that would eliminate funding used to provide Internet to Alaskans in rural areas.

The two committees have zeroed out funding for the Alaska Online with Libraries Program, or OWL, which provides funding for Internet, videoconferencing services and digital literacy training for library staff.

Library director Patricia Brown said if OWL is…