Samuels Library Takeover? Warren County Board Set to Vote on Its Future

The Warren County Library Board is set to vote on measures that could undermine the long-standing, public-private partnership between Warren County and Samuels Public Library, stripping it of funding and opening the door to County control. The vote, scheduled for Tuesday, March 4th at 7:00 PM at the Warren County Government Center, could determine the fate of the library’s independence.

For nearly 50 years, Samuels has operated as a public-private partnership, with Warren County providing partial funding while Samuels Library, Inc.—a private, non-profit—manages operations, secures grants, and ensures community access to books and programs. Now, the County Board of Supervisors is moving to end this partnership and assume direct control over library operations.

If these motions pass, the consequences will be severe:
● Defunding the library by terminating its long-term funding agreement, forcing it into a precarious month-to-month contract.
● Forcing legal changes to the library’s structure, giving the County leverage over assets that have been privately funded for decades.
● Opening the door for private bidders to take over operations, which could lead to the County replacing Samuels with a politically controlled or restricted institution.

“These motions are a direct attempt to dismantle a successful partnership and seize control of our library,” said Samantha Good, President of Save Samuels Library PAC. “Samuels Library has thrived as an independent, community-driven institution. The County wants to take that away, putting political interests ahead of the public good.”

This move comes after a year of escalating attacks on the library, including efforts to restrict book access and install a politically motivated board. Now, the County is positioning itself to take over entirely, threatening the future of an institution that has served Warren County residents for generations.

Save Samuels Library PAC urges all residents to attend this critical meeting, speak out, and demand that the board reject these harmful motions.

Meeting Details:
📅 Tuesday, March 4, 2025
⏰ 7:00 PM
📍 Warren County Government Center, 220 N Commerce Ave, Front Royal, VA 22630

“This isn’t just about funding—it’s about control,” added Good. “If they succeed, we lose an independent library and gain a politically censored one. The community must show up and stop this takeover.”

For more information, visit SaveSamuelsLibrary.com or follow Save Samuels Library PAC on social media.