Save Samuels PAC Ramps Up Efforts to Protect Local Library Amid Political Battle

A local group dedicated to protecting Samuels Public Library is taking its fight to the next level. “Save Samuels,” a grassroots movement that began last year in response to book-banning concerns, has now officially formed a political action committee (PAC). The Save Samuels PAC was created to support candidates in the upcoming Board of Supervisors elections who share their mission of keeping the library independent and well-funded.

Samantha Good, president of the PAC, explained the transition. “We made this decision because we feel the only way to change the way things are moving is to advocate for representatives who support Samuels Library,” she said. The PAC was officially registered on January 17, allowing them to raise funds and endorse candidates.

The conflict surrounding Samuels Public Library began in 2023 when the Warren County Board of Supervisors delayed library funding, citing community concerns about book content. The library responded with changes, including new categorization and parental controls. Despite these adjustments, tensions remain high as the county moves forward with a newly formed library board, which Save Samuels members believe is an attempt to exert political control over the institution.

“The Board of Supervisors claims this isn’t about book banning anymore,” Good said, “but four out of five members on the new library board either have a history of supporting book bans or are vocal about their stance against certain books.”

Another Save Samuels advocate, Rebecca Altizer, believes the issue is bigger than just local politics. “Throughout history, those who go after books were never the good guys,” she said. “Targeting books, especially LGBTQ+ literature, is a direct attack on a specific group of people.”

The group has also raised concerns over transparency. Good pointed out that the new library board did not post its meeting agenda online and for now, does not allow public comments at meetings. “If they’re truly committed to being open and transparent, why shut the public out?” she asked.

Save Samuels PAC has already scheduled several community engagement events, including an “Ink and Drink” fundraiser on March 14 at Stone Branch Center for the Arts. They will also have booths at local events such as Lone Pine Day in April, Family Fun Day on May 10, and the Wine and Craft Festival on May 17.

With elections approaching, the PAC is searching for candidates to challenge current Board of Supervisors members in the Fork and Happy Creek districts. Their goal is to find individuals who support library independence and oppose book bans. They plan to distribute surveys to all candidates, make responses public, and endorse those who align with their mission.

“We’re not tied to any political party,” Good emphasized. “We just want elected officials who will protect our library.”

As the battle over Samuels Public Library continues, Save Samuels PAC is preparing for a crucial election season. With community support growing, their influence could play a significant role in shaping the future of the library and its governance.

For more information, visit SaveSamuelsLibrary.com.