by KYW's Mike Dunn

Mayor Nutter has met privately with advocates for the Free Library branches that he plans to close.  Afterward, Nutter said he won't back down on his controversial plan.

The mayor met behind closed doors for more than an hour on Friday with members of Friends of the Free Library about his plan to shutter 11 library branches (see related story). 
  
After the session, Nutter said he's not budging, just talking:

"The closures will take place.  And at the same time, we're in a much more serious discussion and dialogue about how we better utilize nearby facilities, enhance library services at schools and recreation centers."

Amy Dougherty of the Friends of the Free Library says they at least did get a promise that the actual branch buildings won't be immediately sold:

"So we got a little bit, but we think we're going to get some more in the future."

That more would be the city's help in securing private philanthropy to aid the communities affected by the branch closures.

(Photo: Library supporters express their view during City Council hearings on Nutter's budget plan on Thursday, Nov. 20th.  Photo by KYW's Mike Dunn)