It was about libraries again at the second of two listening sessions in West Point, prior to adoption of the city’s annual budget in December.

“We’re working on a proposal of how we can grow and provide for the needs of West Point,” said Hawkes Library board member Deborah Robertson. “We should have it within two weeks.”

Robertson said the proposal should include short- and long-term goals for the library, which is unaffiliated with any regional library system.

“We would like an increase in our budget so we can grow,” she said. “We’d ask you to keep an open mind and don’t make any decisions yet.”

West Point has grappled in the past with how exactly to support library services, since the city straddles Troup and Harris Counties and is adjacent to Alabama. Tax money from West Point residents goes to Troup and Harris counties to support libraries there, but the city gives an annual appropriation – and plans to again this year – to the Hawkes Library in West Point and nearby Bradshaw Library in Valley, Ala.

“Some people don’t like us sending money over the state line,” said Councilwoman Judy Wilkinson.

Two residents at the first listening session Tuesday wanted the city to support the two libraries, but particularly the one in Valley. The regional libraries in Troup and Harris counties are at least 20 miles away, making them inaccessible for some people who live in West Point, the residents said.

The city’s first official budget hearing at 6 p.m. tonight at City Hall. A second hearing will be held at 6 p.m. Nov. 27 at City Hall before the budget comes up for vote Dec. 10.

A copy of City Manager Ed Moon’s budget presentation along with the proposed 2013 budget, is up for review on the city’s website, www.cityofwestpointga.com