If you've been going to the library more often since these hard economic times hit (free books, movies, and cds), better double-check the hours: we're getting closer to the Jan. 2, 2010 date on which Chicago Public Library will cut hours at 76 neighborhood branches. Instead of being open 64 hours per week, most library hours will be cut down to 48. For areas with two libraries, hours will be staggered: one will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the other, noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday hours will stay the same, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The three larger libraries in the system, Harold Washington Library Center downtown, Sulzer Regional Library in Lincoln Square, and Woodson Regional Library in Brainerd, won't experience any cuts to their 68 hours per week. To see your local branch's hours, try the Chicago Public Library website. more ›

Blue-cart recycling is still over a year away for 359,000 homes without service under Mayor Richard Daley's proposed 2010 budget. In 2008, the city launched a switch to the blue-cart recycling program from the old blue-bag method that was supposed to be completed by 2011. Now, a little under half of Chicago's 600,000 homes with city garbage services are also part of the city's blue-cart recycling program. The city council has also talked about also delaying pickup of the carts in some households that already have the program from every other week to every third week. more ›

With the release of his 2010 budget approaching next week and a budget gap of over $550 million in the city budget, Mayor Daley's going to have to get creative if he wants to close that gap. He'll have to be even more creative now that's he promised he won't raise any taxes, fines, or fees. Said Daley yesterday, "I understand that times are very tough for people. I don't feel right asking them to pay for city government right now." The most likely option being bandied about, it seems, is still dipping into reserve funds from the city's parking meter and Skyway leases. more ›