Friends of Samuels Library urge support for community library funding at Warren County meeting

The Warren County Board of Supervisors meeting on December 10, 2024, highlighted significant community concerns regarding the future of Samuels Public Library and its funding structure. A key discussion point was the potential impact of proposed changes to the library's governance, which many community members fear could jeopardize its operations and the diverse resources it offers.

Residents voiced strong support for maintaining the library's current nonprofit status and governance model, emphasizing the importance of a public library that reflects the community's needs and values. Diane Doitman, a North River District resident, passionately defended the library's role, stating that it should serve all community members without censorship or exclusion based on race or religion. She underscored the library's importance as a resource for everyone, particularly in light of recent discussions about book censorship.

Chris Estes, president of the Friends of Samuels Library (FOSSIL), presented a compelling case for the library's continued independence, highlighting the organization's financial contributions and volunteer efforts that enhance library services. Estes noted that FOSSIL plays a crucial role in funding programs and events that are not covered by county or state budgets, thereby enriching the community's access to literature and educational resources.

The meeting also addressed concerns about the Board of Supervisors' recent decision to withhold future funding for library operations, which has raised alarms among library supporters. Community members expressed that such actions could lead to a significant decline in library services, as the library relies heavily on donations and volunteer support to function effectively.

As the meeting concluded, attendees called for collaboration between the Board of Supervisors and library trustees to ensure that Samuels Public Library continues to thrive as a vital community resource. The discussions underscored the library's integral role in fostering literacy, community engagement, and access to information, with residents urging the board to prioritize the library's needs in future funding decisions.