Fairfield says it will shorten the hours at both branches of its public library due to the absence of a state budget.

The Fairfield Public Library and Woods Branch Library will close early beginning Aug. 14.

The main library, which normally closes at 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 6 p.m. on Friday, and 5 p.m. on Saturday, will now also close at 5 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. 

The Fairfield Woods Branch will close at 8 p.m. on Monday and Wednesday and 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Both branches will also open late on Saturdays, at 1 p.m. rather than 9 a.m.

First Selectman Michael Tetreau says financial insecurity directly spurred the move. The town was expecting $5 million from the state. It hasn't received anything, he says.

On the other hand, Tetreau says the town has avoided any layoffs. On July 1, the town implemented other cost-saving measures: a hiring freeze, a stoppage of repaving and a halt to other capital projects. Legislators are also working to save up to $5 million in the town budget.

"If the state passes a budget, then we'll be able to work with real numbers, but we can't wait," Tetreau says. "We have to start saving money now."