Samuels Public Library Hosts Community Forum Amid Ongoing Changes

Samuels Public Library welcomed community members to a public forum aimed at providing updates, answering questions, and addressing ongoing concerns about the library’s operations and future. With a packed agenda, library leaders discussed statistics, upcoming events, and recent developments surrounding a newly formed Warren County Library Board.

Melody Hotek, president of the Samuels Public Library Board of Trustees, opened the forum by thanking the Friends of Samuels Library (FOSL) for their support. She emphasized the organization’s independence from civic groups and advocacy organizations, noting, “We are big believers in the First Amendment… but they do not speak for the library.”

FOSL, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, plays a vital role in supporting the library through fundraising efforts, volunteer work, and special events. Members operate the library bookstore and annual bake sale, with all proceeds funding projects beyond the library’s operating budget. “They are kind of our wingman,” Hotek said, highlighting their contributions to enhancing library services.

The purpose of the forum, she explained, was to ensure transparency and keep the community informed. “Some of our patrons receive our newsletters, others follow us on social media, and some prefer to get their information in person,” Hotek said. “We can all agree that it’s always best to go straight to the source.”

She also set the tone for a civil, fact-based discussion, reminding attendees to ask one question at a time to allow for broad participation. Written questions could also be submitted for further discussion. “Let’s do some fact-finding, ask your questions, and come together as a community,” she said.

Hotek then introduced Erin Rooney, the library’s director. Rooney, who took on the role in 2023, previously served as the Adult Reference Manager and has years of experience in various library departments. She holds a master’s degree in library science and has been instrumental in keeping Samuels Public Library at the forefront of modern library trends while preserving its deep historical roots.

Library Director Erin Rooney shared key figures from the past six months, showing an increase in visitor numbers, checkouts, and database usage. Between July and December 2024, the library saw a 3% increase in visitors, totaling 65,516. The number of checkouts also grew by 4%, while database usage surged 28%, reflecting the growing demand for digital resources.

“Our mission is simple: to bring people, information, and ideas together to enrich lives and build communities,” Rooney said.

Hotek praised Rooney’s leadership, noting her deep knowledge of modern library trends and history. “Erin always says libraries are like magic—books come and go, programs are announced, events seem to just ‘happen,’” Hotek said. “But the reality is that this is a complex institution with many moving parts and a lot of hard work behind the scenes.”

Beyond books, the library continues to be a hub for community engagement and support. In addition to its growing programs, the past six months saw a 50% increase in COVID test kit distribution, likely due to a challenging flu season. Volunteerism also surged, with over 5,600 hours donated—a 26% increase, underscoring the community’s deep connection to the library.

Board Trustee Scott Jenkins recently described the library as the fabric of the community, woven from years of support and partnerships. Hotek agreed. “Samuels Public Library ties together businesses, civic groups, and volunteers. And as a partner with the county, it brings residents an award-winning institution staffed by dedicated professionals.”

Reflecting on both the past and future of the library, Hotek assured the audience: “We have a long history of running this library well—and we are not going anywhere.” Hotek continued, “Have I mentioned yet that your library won 2024 Library of the Year?”

Honoring the Past: A Look at Samuels Public Library’s History

Local author Colleen Snyder took attendees on a journey through Samuels Public Library’s rich history, tracing its evolution from a subscription-based service in 1799 to the award-winning institution it is today.

“Most people know Samuels Public Library has been around since 1799, but few realize how it got to where it is today,” Snyder said. “I wanted to uncover the building blocks—the key moments that shaped this institution.”

She highlighted milestones such as the Chester Street Ladies of 1921, the establishment of Ivy Lodge in 1953, the Villa Avenue location in 1980, and the construction of the Pricer Road facility in 2009.

The library’s early years were marked by frequent relocations, from City Hall to a local drugstore to above a harness shop—where poor lighting, heat, and narrow stairs posed constant challenges.

One of the most influential figures in the library’s history was Mrs. C.L. Melton, who helped rally support through Silver Teas to raise funds and expand the book collection. In 1953, Dr. Bernard Samuels secured a stable home by purchasing Ivy Lodge, believing in expanding access to knowledge for the community. Later, a surprise $250,000 donation from Walter Samuels helped fund the Villa Avenue location, which the library outgrew before moving to its current site in 2009.

Snyder closed with a quote from a 1901 Warren Sentinel article:

“It [the library] disseminates knowledge, inspires a taste for reading, and gaining information. It gives the town a tone and reputation and draws many from useless, if not vicious, habits.”

She also announced a new project, “Echoes of the Past,” which will collect personal stories and memorabilia from residents. “If you have a story to share, we want to hear it,” she said.

Her presentation underscored an important theme of the forum: Samuels Public Library is more than a building—it’s a vital part of Warren County’s history, shaped by generations of community support.

Library’s Financial Picture and County Partnership

A major focus of the forum was the library’s financial situation. Eileen Grady, Director of Operations, presented a breakdown of the FY2026 budget, explaining that most of the county’s funding goes toward salaries and basic operational costs.

“We have no debts, no defaults, no scandals, and no losses,” Grady emphasized, adding that the library maintains rigorous financial oversight through an independent auditor.

The proposed FY2026 budget includes a 3% cost-of-living salary adjustment and an increase in building maintenance funds as the facility ages. Despite these necessary expenses, the library continues to offset costs with grant funding, donations, and volunteer work, saving taxpayers an estimated $250,000 per year.

All of the financial information is posted on the Samuels Public Library website.

Community Concerns Over Governance Changes

A portion of the forum focused on the Warren County Library Board (WCLB), a newly established entity that began meeting in late January. While still in its early stages—working to establish officers, bylaws, and a mission statement—many residents and library patrons remain unclear on its purpose and function.

Library trustees have also been contacted by WCLB members seeking information. Hotek noted that she was recently invited to discuss Samuels Public Library’s finances at a future WCLB meeting and explained her approach to the request.

“As President of the Library Board of Trustees, my first responsibility is to this library, our director, and my fellow trustees,” she said. “We meet bi-monthly, and our five committees meet in the off months. I attend all of those meetings, and last Wednesday, I had a Development Committee meeting—that was my priority.”

She also emphasized the need for preparedness when discussing financial matters. “I asked for questions in advance so I could bring the right people and documents,” she said. “Would I need our treasurer? Someone from the Finance Committee? Our Director of Operations? Providing numbers requires preparation—it’s standard practice.”

Hotek also addressed speculation that she had been avoiding the meeting. “I have yet to meet Mr. Belk, and I choose to give him the benefit of the doubt. I’m sure he did not intend to insinuate that I was avoiding his request. That said, we will consult legal counsel on how to handle future interactions.”

Unanswered Questions and Transparency Concerns

While acknowledging that the county has the right to form the WCLB, Hotek emphasized that clear governance structures must be established to prevent government overreach and protect the library’s independence as a charitable nonprofit.

“If the Board of Supervisors (BoS) wants the WCLB to determine library funding, we are willing to work with them,” she said. “But there are still many unanswered questions.”

Among the most pressing concerns:

• What is the library’s role in this process? Is it now expected to educate the WCLB on how to run a library—something that takes years of study and experience?
• How will this impact operations? Answering questions and second-guessing motivations takes valuable time away from running the library.
• Where is the financial transparency? The Board of Supervisors has not provided any numbers on the savings they claim.
• What will it cost taxpayers? No concrete figures or budgeted line items have been provided for the start-up costs of a separate county-run library.

“How much is this ultimately going to cost taxpayers?” Hotek asked. “Any guesses?”

As the situation unfolds, Samuels Public Library remains committed to transparency and responsible stewardship of community resources. A lawsuit challenging the ordinance that created the WCLB is set for May 2, 2025, and library officials will continue monitoring developments closely.

Exciting Programs and Future Events

Among the library’s most popular programs in the past six months was SammiCon, a Harry Potter-themed event that drew local authors and illustrators. Looking ahead, the library is preparing for:

• A job fair on March 6, in partnership with Virginia Workforce Development.
• An Irish language class with local author Connie Marsha on March 22.
• The return of the Bigfoot program on April 8, featuring a speaker who has spent years searching for the elusive creature.
• The Summer Reading Program, themed Color Our World, which will focus on arts and crafts.
• SammiCon 2025, with a new theme centered on animation.

Additionally, the library’s Studio 330 Makerspace and Memory Lab continues to expand, offering digitization equipment, sewing classes, and embroidery clubs. “The memory lab is really a place to bring your old photos, VHS tapes, and other memories back to life,” said Tina Claflin, the studio’s coordinator.

A Strong Commitment to the Future

Despite the ongoing challenges, library leaders assured the community that Samuels Public Library remains committed to serving Warren County residents. Upcoming fundraising efforts include:

• Library Lovers Month Matching Grant—Every donation is matched up to $6,500.
• Ladies of the Library Tea—A March event honoring the historical role of women in building the library.
• Taste for Books (April 26)—A major annual fundraiser featuring a red carpet, live swing band, and themed displays from local businesses.

A Question We Hear Often: Will My Donation Stay with the Library?

“Absolutely!” said Melody Hotek, president of the Samuels Public Library Board of Trustees. “Every donation made to Samuels Public Library stays right here—securely in our accounts. The County has no control over our funds, and your contributions directly support the programs, services, and future plans we’ve outlined today.”

Hotek expressed deep gratitude for the community’s generosity, emphasizing the impact donations have on sustaining the library.

“Your support is helping us get through this challenge,” she said. “It allows us to continue offering programs and services beyond basic operating costs.”

Many donors have designated contributions for specific purposes, such as maintenance, legal expenses, and books, while others have left it up to the library to allocate where needed.

“No matter how you’ve chosen to give, we thank you,” Hotek said. “And we’re especially grateful to your friends and family outside the area who have stepped up in support. We see you, and we know you are watching, advocating, and standing with our staff and trustees.”

She closed with a strong commitment to the library’s future. “Together, we will ensure that Samuels Public Library remains the heart of this community for generations to come.”

For more information, visit www.samuelslibrary.net.