Staff and volunteers at the Tamaqua Public Library have resorted to extraordinary measures to make up for recent cuts in state funding.

"Both our Fall and Christmas book and video fundraisers serve as two of our primary fundraisers," said Gayle Heath, director, Tamaqua Public Library. "To get the most out of it, we've chosen to sell some of the books online via Amazon and EBay.""For us, this is a needed revenue source," added Heath. "We are trying to make every penny count."Gayle's son, Zachary, who is taking environmental systems engineering in State College, donates his time selling the books online. "Our quick turnaround, shipping and accurate online item descriptions have resulted in us listed as one of EBay's highest rated sellers," said Heath. "Zachary dedicates his own time, money and resources into this project."Heath added that state cuts started back in 2009 and have continued at the reduced level ever since. "Most recently, local funding has diminished as well," said Heath. She added that both the Tamaqua Area School District and the county have cut funding by 50 percent. "Our collection budget was over $33,000 in 2008, now it is $19,800," said Heath. "This is what we use to supply books and items to our patrons."All our inventory is donated by the generous donations of the community.Donated books and videos can be dropped of at the library during normal business hours; Monday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.In addition to books and videos, monetary donations can be mailed or dropped off at the library, 30 S. Railroad Street. Make checks out to Tamaqua Public Library.