Local residents urge DC Public Library board to rename Capitol View Library for Francell Bellinger

Whitney Bellinger Coleman, identifying herself as the daughter of Francell Bellinger, told the DC Public Library Board of Trustees that her mother—s lifetime of local service warrants renaming the Capitol View Library in her honor.

Bellinger Coleman described Francell Bellinger—s longstanding volunteer work with the Friends of the Capitol View Library, a successful lawsuit that helped secure renovations, quilting and mask-making volunteer efforts for vulnerable residents, and posthumous funds that enabled a Little Free Libraries program in Ward 7. "She did what she could to help the community," Bellinger Coleman said, urging the board to recognize her mother—s local impact.

Friends of the library and neighborhood representatives backed the request. Debbie Lewis, chair of the Little Free Libraries effort, said she worked with Bellinger on renovation and community programs and "definitely support[s] the recommendation" to recognize her contributions. Cecily Jenkins, vice president of membership for the Friends of Capitol View Library, added that Bellinger—s advocacy and role in securing renovations positively affected local families.

Board members acknowledged receipt of the petition and the materials submitted for the renaming request and thanked speakers for providing additional background. The board did not vote on a renaming at this meeting; staff and trustees said they will continue to process the petition through the library—s established review channels.

The public comment segment also included a range of other community items, but the renaming petition drew sustained testimony from multiple Friends members and neighbors.

Next steps: the board and library staff will continue to review the petition and supporting materials; speakers were thanked and the board recorded the public comments for the record.