But Nelson added that he is not opposed to the idea and would welcome discussion on the matter.

"That's not to say that, could we do some talking and come up with some very creative solutions; boy, that's really possible," he said.

Pleasant Grove Library cataloger Jean Draney said smaller libraries such as hers see great advantages in a more integrated system.

"Obviously (for) smaller libraries like we are, that would be a great benefit for us," Draney said. "We've always contended that that would be helpful."

Draney acknowledged that it might be a "not-so-sweet" deal for the larger libraries.

"Right now I don't think the larger libraries need us very much, but we need them," she said. "I think it's probably what we need to address and try to implement because it actually gives more service to more people that way."

In addition to a countywide card, the library committee suggested that mayors look at even more integration of library services in the future, including a combined catalog and possibly involving the libraries at Utah Valley State College and Brigham Young University.

County residents are currently allowed to use both libraries but must pay a fee to check out materials — $20 at UVSC and $50 at BYU ($10 for high school students).

"For your average community member, when you come into the library, you have access to just about everything," said BYU library spokesman Mike Hooper.

Library spokespeople at both schools said they would be open to the idea of a partnership with the city libraries.

"I think it's a possibility," said UVSC director of library services Michael Freeman. "I'm certainly open to ideas and discussions on the issue."

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E-mail: mdecker@desnews.com