Here's the memo sent to the metro staff by metro administrative manager Gloria Bell, (Take a look how quick-to-the-point this note is; these days, explanations for these sort of cuts are pretty unnecessary).

Folks,

You all know how tight budgets have become. They are getting tighter. Because of that we have decided to cut all subscriptions to newspapers and magazines that come in from the news dealer. If you wish to read any of the tabloids or out of town papers, either purchase your own or share with co-workers who purchase them to read on their way to work.

Please note, too, that any subscriptions you have regularly purchased and expensed may not be reimbursed anymore. Please check with me before you pay for anything. Most periodicals, including the tabloids and other daily newspapers, are available online through Ebsco masterfile which you can get to through the Research Dept's web page.

Sorry about this but the money we spent on these papers can be put to better use like paying freelancers. As always, thanks for your cooperation and understanding.

Later, a follow-up note was sent out, with the subject line, "Good Suggestion."

Please put any newspapers or magazines that you care to contribute to our "share and share alike" system, on the cabinet tops that used to house the Metro stacks. Thanks.