Newton County Library Board urges funding increase amid staffing and service cuts

The Newton County Board of Commissioners met on April 8, 2025, to discuss the budget appropriations for the library system, highlighting urgent funding needs and the impact of years without financial increases. Library officials, including Board Chair Lace Keaton and Treasurer Frank Turner, presented a compelling case for increased funding, emphasizing the critical role libraries play in promoting literacy and community engagement.

Keaton opened the discussion by expressing concern over the library's stagnant funding, which has remained unchanged for 16 years. She noted that the library system has seen a significant decline in staff, from 41 employees to just 12, which has severely limited services and operational capacity. Keaton underscored the importance of libraries in fostering literacy, sharing a poignant story about civil rights leader John Lewis, who was inspired to advocate for change after being denied a library card as a teenager.

Turner provided a detailed financial overview, revealing that the library's budget has not kept pace with inflation, effectively reducing its purchasing power. He stated that the current funding of $916,000 only allows the library to afford $455,000 worth of goods and services. Turner warned that without additional funding, the library would face dire consequences, including potential service cuts and further staff reductions.

The library's director, Keaton, shared statistics from the previous fiscal year, including 220,000 items circulated and nearly 81,000 visitors. She highlighted community programs, such as literacy kits for children and partnerships with local organizations, which demonstrate the library's commitment to serving the public despite resource constraints.

Commissioner Long acknowledged the library's challenges and noted that the county's growth and development pressures complicate funding decisions. She emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to enhance library services while balancing the budgetary needs of other county departments.

The meeting concluded with a call for the Board of Commissioners to consider the library's funding request seriously, as the future of library services in Newton County hangs in the balance. The library board members and community advocates urged the commissioners to recognize the essential role of libraries in fostering education and community well-being, appealing for a commitment to increase funding in the upcoming budget.