All Seattle public libraries are closed this week to save money and prevent layoffs. They'll also be closed for a week in December.

The librarians are unhappy about the shutdown. They'd rather be working, and getting paid.

"It's getting harder and harder for employees to lose that pay. Health care costs are rising and employees don't want to take any more cuts because it is such a hardship," said Clerical Supervisor Carrie Tuckwood.

Picketers said the city should provide enough money to keep the libraries open.

"We believe that the City Council and the mayor should step up to the plate and fully fund libraries, especially the new branches like this one on Capitol Hill," said labor representative Bill Dennis. "They need to be staffed and they need to be open."

All Seattle libraries will re-open Tuesday, Sept. 2.