Sampson County's Board of Commissioners made significant strides in enhancing library services during their budget workshop on June 13, 2025. Thanks to recent private sector donations, library hours will be restored to pre-cut levels, allowing for improved access to community resources.

The meeting highlighted the need for additional staffing to support the restored hours. Library Director Kelsey outlined a plan to hire three part-time employees to ensure that library services remain robust. This staffing adjustment is crucial as it allows the library to maximize available funding while maintaining service levels. The commissioners expressed their support for this temporary staffing solution, emphasizing the importance of honoring the generosity of donors who made these enhancements possible.

In addition to staffing discussions, the board explored innovative ways to increase library usage and community engagement. Commissioners suggested transforming library branches into remote customer service sites for county government services. This initiative aims to make essential services more accessible to residents, particularly in underserved areas like Garland and Newton Grove.

The board also acknowledged the need for ongoing evaluation of library services and usage metrics. Tracking foot traffic and service utilization will help demonstrate the libraries' value to the community and support future funding efforts. The commissioners stressed the importance of driving traffic to the libraries, noting that increased patronage is vital for sustaining services in the long term.

As the meeting concluded, the board reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing library services and ensuring that community needs are met. The discussions set a clear path forward, with plans to revisit staffing and service strategies in the coming months, ensuring that Sampson County libraries remain vital resources for all residents.