Community members rally to protect Columbia County library's access and funding

The Columbia County Board of Commissioners meeting on April 1, 2025, featured a passionate plea from a community member advocating for the local library system. The speaker highlighted the importance of libraries as vital resources for education and community engagement, particularly in light of upcoming National Library Week.

The discussion centered around concerns regarding recent changes to library guidelines, which the speaker argued lacked transparency and could lead to censorship of materials, particularly those featuring diverse perspectives. The speaker expressed frustration over the absence of public input on these guidelines and emphasized the need for community support to protect the library's mission.

In addition to advocating for the library, the speaker noted the absence of author visits over the past year and called for increased participation from commissioners who are "friends of the library." The speaker underscored the library's role in fostering democracy and providing essential services, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.

The meeting also included a motion to approve the employment agreement for Amanda Hamm as the director of the Greater Clarks Hill Regional Library System, a decision that reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen library leadership and services.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the community's commitment to preserving library resources and ensuring access to a diverse range of materials, while also addressing the need for transparency and public involvement in library governance.