Latest / Stagflation Conversations with Fexingo: High Inflation, Slow Growth, and 1970s Echoes
Why Stagflation Is Reshaping the Public Library System
For episode 100, Lucas and Luna explore how stagflation is quietly squeezing America's public libraries. With inflation at 4.5% and local government budgets tightening, libraries face higher costs for books, energy, and staffing—while demand surges as patrons seek free internet, job-search help, and cooling centers. Lucas breaks down the numbers: real library funding has fallen 8% since 2021, circulation is up 15%, and programming attendance is at record highs. Luna spotlights a surprising case: the Denver Public Library system, which cut weekday hours by 20% even as foot traffic jumped…
The skinny
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