Concert to raise money for libraries

The Riverside Regional Library in Jackson will host Texas folk duo Byrd & Street for their "Save Missouri Libraries Concert" this evening from 5p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Library director Jeff Trinkle said that, although there will be no charge for admission, donations will be accepted, with funds going to helping sustain area libraries in the face of state funding cuts.

"The reason it's called 'Save Missouri Libraries' is because public libraries are facing reduced funding," he said. "Right now it looks like state aid will be reduced by 70 percent."

He said that although the cuts will affect libraries of all sizes, they will especially hurt libraries in smaller communities who rely more on state funding.

"This state funding is critical for smaller libraries," Trinkle said.

Byrd & Street, based in Austin, Texaas, are four-time Texas Music Award nominees, three-time Kerrville Festival New Folk finalists, and their songs have been recorded by other artists including Paul Stookey of Peter, Paul and Mary fame, according to a Riverside Regional Library press release.

For more information, contact the Riverside Regional Library at 573-243-8141.

1997 E. Jackson Boulevard, Jackson, MO.