Warren County Board Votes to End Library Funding Agreement, Sparking Community Outcry

The future of Samuels Public Library is now uncertain after the Warren County Board of Supervisors voted to end its current funding agreement. The move sparked an outcry from residents and fueled accusations of political overreach. The decision followed a presentation by Warren County Library Board Chairman Eric Belk, who accused the library’s Board of Trustees of violating transparency laws and attempting to remove county oversight.

While county officials insist they are not shutting down the library, critics argue that the vote is a thinly veiled attempt to control its operations, potentially restricting intellectual freedom and community access. The deeply divided meeting showcased two competing visions for the library’s future—one in which it remains independent and community-driven, and another in which it falls under increased county control.

Belk’s Case Against the Library Leadership

Addressing the Board of Supervisors, Belk denied claims that the county was trying to defund or close the library. “Any suggestion to the contrary is a false narrative,” he said.

Warren County Library Board Chairman Erik Belk makes his presentation to the Board of Supervisors.

He focused much of his argument on a December 17, 2024, meeting of the library’s Board of Trustees, which he claimed was held secretly in violation of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). At that meeting, the board amended the library’s dissolution clause, which had previously stated that if the nonprofit overseeing Samuels Library were to dissolve, its assets would revert to Warren County for continued public library use. The new version, Belk argued, allowed those assets to be distributed to any nonprofit organization, potentially outside of Warren County.

“This change fundamentally alters the intended recipient of library assets,” he argued. “Instead of ensuring those resources remain with the county, they could now go anywhere in the country for any charitable or educational purpose.”

Belk also claimed that Samuels Library leaders had refused to meet with the newly formed Warren County Library Board, ignoring multiple requests for discussions about financial transparency and county oversight.

Supervisors Divided on Library Control

The debate among supervisors reflected the deep divisions within the county. Some, like Supervisor Cheryl Cullers, strongly opposed severing ties with Samuels Library, calling the vote an unnecessary attack on an institution that has served the community for generations.

Supervisor Cullers said, “This issue has been rushed through with no concern for the collateral damage to our county and community.”

She argued that replacing Samuels Library with a new contractor would cause disruptions, potentially harming key programs. “What happens to the homeschool students who rely on the free programs? What happens to the elderly who depend on these services every day? This is not just about money—it’s about people.”

Cullers also pointed out what she saw as hypocrisy in the board’s scrutiny of the library’s finances. “I have been criticized for asking for more transparency in our county’s budget, yet this board is now demanding line-item financial details from Samuels Library that we never required before. The level of misinformation being spread on Facebook is beyond reality.”

Supervisor Richard Jamieson, however, defended the vote, arguing that it was necessary to maintain control over taxpayer-funded services. “We’re not shutting down the library,” he said. “But we have a responsibility to ensure that public funds are being properly accounted for. Samuels Library has refused to cooperate with our newly established library board, and that raises concerns.” He suggested that at least $6.7 million in taxpayer money had been invested in the library over the years, questioning how those funds were being handled.

Jamieson said. “Warren County taxpayers have a rightful expectation that public services paid for with public funds should be under oversight of a public library board. There will not be one second of time in Warren County when public library services are not funded. Claims of defunding the library are aimed at creating alarm and turmoil.”

Stanmeyer said, “It’s basically turning off auto-renew, like when you go on Netflix or Hulu and you go to your subscription and you turn off auto-renew.”

Supervisor John Stanmyer framed the vote as a practical decision, comparing it to turning off an automatic renewal. “We don’t know what the best path forward is unless we re-evaluate,” he said. “This simply allows us to explore our options and ensure we are getting the best possible library services for our residents.”

Residents Push Back, Call for a Referendum

As the supervisors cast their votes, shouts of “Shame on you!” and “We’ll see you in November!” erupted from the packed room. Many residents saw the decision as an attempt to dismantle an institution they cherish.

One speaker, visibly upset, shouted, “This is not what the people of Warren County want!” Others called for a referendum, demanding that voters, not the Board of Supervisors, decide the library’s fate.

Supervisor Cullers attempted to introduce a motion that would put the issue on the ballot in November, allowing residents to vote on whether to continue funding Samuels Library or seek a new provider. However, the motion failed to gain traction.

In response to community concerns, Supervisor Butler suggested that Samuels Library leadership should return to the negotiating table. “If they are willing to work with us in good faith, then there may still be a path forward,” he said.

A Battle Over Intellectual Freedom

The decision did little to ease tensions, as many residents accused county officials of trying to limit access to books and ideas.

Genevieve Elise, from the Shenandoah District, argued that the real goal was censorship. “This isn’t about protecting children. This is about control,” she said. “It’s about silencing voices that make some people uncomfortable.”

Jackie Masella of the Happy Creek District went further, calling the county’s actions a “blatant power grab.” She pointed out that Samuels Library has a platinum rating from GuideStar, the highest level of transparency recognition available, and accused the board of pushing an ideological agenda.

Masella specifically challenged what she saw as an effort to erase LGBTQ+ representation in books and programs. “Frankly, I’d have more respect for you if you just owned it,” she said.

Concerns Over Costs and Services

Beyond censorship concerns, others questioned the financial wisdom of replacing Samuels Library with a county-run or new contractor-run system.

Noelle Williams, a longtime county resident, pointed to Warren County’s struggling education system. “These children failed the Standards of Learning. We were 50 out of 50 states in math and reading,” he said. “And you’re trying to close down a library? Let’s get real, people. These kids need to learn how to read.”

Steve Foreman, of the Fork District, also raised concerns about the financial burden. “What will be the cost of losing the library and taking the responsibility onto this community?” he asked. “Have you thought about it?”

“Everyone is welcome to use the library services free of charge. So why does the BOS insist that the library is incapable of self-governance? The fiction they present is a lack of taxpayer accountability. So my question is, with all the other pressing needs of this county, why do you on the board spend resources on endangering the benefits provided by the library?”, said Steve Foreman.

Bob Hill pressed officials on whether taxpayers would be forced to cover the cost of setting up a new system. “You created a board to oversee. They recommend that the county close the library. What’s that mean for the taxpayers?” he asked. “Some of you have had thoughts about other matters—start thinking about this community and its potential growth.”

What’s Next for Samuels Library?

With the funding agreement set to expire, the future of Samuels Public Library remains in limbo. If the Board of Supervisors moves forward with hiring a new contractor, the transition could disrupt services for thousands of residents. However, supporters of the decision argue that it is necessary to ensure financial oversight and compliance with county regulations.

What is clear is that this battle is far from over. With elections on the horizon, many residents made it known that they plan to hold their leaders accountable at the ballot box. Whether Samuels Library survives as an independent institution or falls under county control will likely be decided not just in board meetings, but in the voting booths come November.

Click here to watch Warren County Board of Supervisors Meeting of March 4, 2024.