HELENA, Mont. (AP) The Montana State Library plans to close its doors at the start of the year and will instead be offering its resources over the Internet.

The library has been open since the 1920s and is the main repository for state documents.

The library says very little will be lost in the transition, although certain services such as walk-in access to a number of newspapers will be gone.

State Librarian Darlene Staffeldt says they decided the library could not offer complete digital access to the library along with offering walk-in service. It decided to focus on digital access.

Staffeldt says she expects there may be some critics as word of the decision spreads.

By AP Writer Matt Gouras (Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-12-07 1652CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list