During a recent county council meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to proposed staffing restructuring at the local library, arguing that the changes would undermine essential services and long-term viability.

One speaker, who has extensive experience presenting budget proposals to the council, emphasized that the library has historically been underfunded despite serving more patrons than any other county department. They described the proposed changes as a short-term strategy that would ultimately lead to long-term detriment, warning that the library's core identity and ability to plan for the future would be compromised.

Concerns were raised about the council's historical view of library management positions as unnecessary expenditures, particularly the repeated elimination and reintroduction of the deputy or assistant director roles. The speaker suggested that this pattern indicates a troubling trend that could jeopardize the library's staffing and operational capacity.

Another advocate, Krista Perry, passionately defended the library's role in the community, highlighting its importance as a resource for education and connection. She shared personal experiences of how library services have transformed lives and fostered community engagement, particularly through programs focused on sustainability and health.

Both speakers urged the council to reconsider the proposals and protect library funding, framing the library as a vital community asset that supports lifelong learning and social cohesion. The meeting concluded without further public comments, leaving the future of the library's staffing and funding uncertain.