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Library trustee applicant interviews spotlight concerns over safety, Wi‑Fi hours and bookmobile service
Summary
Applicants interviewed for a library trustee vacancy praised the system's services but raised concerns about safety and unsanctioned use of library grounds, continuous Wi‑Fi access after hours, cuts to the bookmobile and the need to preserve children's access to library programming.
The Board of Commissioners hosted interviews with applicants for a vacancy on the regional library board and heard public comment and questions that focused on library safety, hours of Wi‑Fi access and reductions to outreach services.
One applicant, Sally Stetson, told commissioners she is a long‑time educator and a lifelong library user and said the library's programs — from story hours to digital lending and park‑based events — are valuable community services. Stetson urged support for outreach programs such as the bookmobile and highlighted the library's role in offering free internet access for residents without home connectivity.
Public commenters and applicants described security problems at some branches and nearby parks, saying visible homelessness and disruptive behavior had at times interrupted children's programs and made patrons uncomfortable. Multiple speakers suggested weekday or nightly Wi‑Fi curfews and said security presence in libraries before COVID had improved safety; others warned that turning off Wi‑Fi overnight could deny service to people who legitimately need late access for work or travel.
Speakers also discussed concerns about book selection and parental control. Several interviewers and the applicants said parents should decide what material is appropriate for their children and that libraries should provide a broad range of materials while maintaining sections and shelving that help families and caregivers make age‑appropriate choices.
Why it matters: library board members set policy and budget priorities for a regional system that serves a widely dispersed population; trustees influence decisions on outreach, security policy and collection development.
Next steps: interviews continue in the coming weeks; the county will notify applicants after the trustee selection process is complete.
