CHPL funding

18 views
Skip to first unread message

JD

unread,
May 6, 2026, 1:51:27 PM (7 days ago) May 6
to ocb...@orangecountync.gov
Dear Commissioners,

I am a long-time Orange County resident and property taxpayer.

I am writing to you upon learning that Orange County's funding of the
Chapel Hill Public Library might be cut off.

As a retired person, the library is now a VERY IMPORTANT resource for me.

Please DO NOT discontinue Orange County's valuable support for the library.

Respectfully,

Jackson Dube

Janina Marcenaro

unread,
May 12, 2026, 5:35:52 PM (19 hours ago) May 12
to ocb...@orangecountync.gov
Dear Orange County Board of Commissioners,

I live in Carrboro, and have considered myself lucky to have access to one of the best libraries in North Carolina.
Access to educational resources is essential to build and sustain a successful community. The excellent schedule available and the superb librarians would not be possible, if funding cuts are implemented. 
Additionally, the library provides the space for community meetings, voting precinct, quiet work areas, computer and printer access for those less fortunate to afford fast internet. The list of resources lost is endless, impacting mostly the young, who are the future of our world. They deserve a safe area to continue enriching their lives.

I hope the cuts are reconsidered, and on the contrary, that resources are allocated to continue to enhance the services provided by our wonderful Chapel Hill Public Library.

Respectfully,
Janina Marcenaro
P.O. Box 16924
Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Wil Glenn

unread,
May 12, 2026, 6:16:44 PM (18 hours ago) May 12
to Janina Marcenaro, ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK

Dear Janina,

Thank you for sharing your perspectives regarding the county budget and the proposed phased reduction of funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library.

The Orange County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) will receive and consider your feedback as part of the ongoing budget process. Public input is an important part of these discussions, and your engagement is appreciated.

For more information, view the link below that includes key facts about the recommended library funding transition:

https://www.orangecountync.gov/DocumentCenter/View/38653/Chapel-Hill-Public-Library-Funding-Transition--Key-Facts

 

The budget schedule includes Public Hearings on May 12 and May 28, as well as Budget Work Sessions on May 14, May 21, May 26, and June 4. These meetings, along with the BOCC’s regular business meetings, provide opportunities for residents to learn more about the county’s budget priorities and decision-making process.

In addition, Budget Information Sessions will be held on May 14, May 20 (virtual: https://orangecountync.gov/BudgetSession), and May 21. These sessions allow residents to ask questions of budget staff, learn more about the recommended budget, and share their perspectives.

Thank you again for taking the time to participate in the process.

 

 

Wil Glenn

Community Relations Director

Orange County Government
Office Phone: 919.245.2302

Mobile Phone: 919.430.4900

Email: wgl...@orangecountync.gov

signatureImage

 

Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

 

From: Janina Marcenaro <scotj...@yahoo.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 5:34 PM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: CHPL funding

 

CAUTION: External email. Do not click links or open attachments unless verified. Report suspicious emails with the Phish Alert Button located on your Outlook menu bar on the Home tab.

A Heger

unread,
May 12, 2026, 7:46:34 PM (17 hours ago) May 12
to ocb...@orangecountync.gov

Dear Orange County Commissioners,

As a resident of Orange County, I am writing to express my concern about the proposed phase-out of funding for Chapel Hill Public Library and strongly urge you to vote to continue to fund the library.

I believe the library is an essential resource in our community, for all residents of Orange County.

Our family visits the library at least once a week. It is such a special place for our twin 6 year olds who have grown up in that library. It was one of the first places we returned to as the pandemic was coming to an end and it remains a space where we feel a sense of community.

Friends that visit us are often brought along to the library because our kids want to show them “our favorite place.” I am often reminded during these visits how truly incredible the Chapel Hill Public Library is. Most towns and cities have libraries, but not all of these libraries feel so connected to community and so full of friends and neighbors. Not all libraries are surrounded by beautiful trails, art work, and native flower gardens. Not all libraries have a children’s section full of life or such welcoming, warm librarians. The CHPL is unlike any other public space this community. It’s a place where all can gather, work, connect, and learn. It is a palace for the people. 

We are living through a time of disconnect. Libraries are part of the glue that can bring us all back together. 

The proposed funding reduction of $621,323 (half during fiscal year 2027 and the remaining half at the beginning of fiscal year 2028) is 72% of the library’s total operating budget. This reduction would have a significant impact on library services, including hours, programs, and access to resources, especially for the 14,813 county residents who, if funding were lost, would have to either pay for an account at Chapel Hill Public Library or lose access.

I respectfully ask that you reconsider this proposal and continue funding Chapel Hill Public Library. Investing in the world-class Chapel Hill Public Library is an investment in education, economic opportunity, and the well-being of everyone in our county.

Thank you for your time and for your service to our community.

Sincerely,
Ashley

9085 Trout Lily Lane
27516


Ashley Heger
she/her

Wil Glenn

unread,
May 12, 2026, 8:28:30 PM (16 hours ago) May 12
to A Heger, ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK

Dear Ashley,

Thank you for sharing your perspectives regarding the county budget and the proposed phased reduction of funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library.

The Orange County Board of Commissioners (BOCC) will receive and consider your feedback as part of the ongoing budget process. Public input is an important part of these discussions, and your engagement is appreciated.

For more information, view the link below that includes key facts about the recommended library funding transition:

https://www.orangecountync.gov/DocumentCenter/View/38653/Chapel-Hill-Public-Library-Funding-Transition--Key-Facts

 

The budget schedule includes Public Hearings on May 12 and May 28, as well as Budget Work Sessions on May 14, May 21, May 26, and June 4. These meetings, along with the BOCC’s regular business meetings, provide opportunities for residents to learn more about the county’s budget priorities and decision-making process.

In addition, Budget Information Sessions will be held on May 14, May 20 (virtual: https://orangecountync.gov/BudgetSession), and May 21. These sessions allow residents to ask questions of budget staff, learn more about the recommended budget, and share their perspectives.

Thank you again for taking the time to participate in the process.

 

 

Wil Glenn

Community Relations Director

Orange County Government
Office Phone: 919.245.2302

Mobile Phone: 919.430.4900

Email: wgl...@orangecountync.gov

signatureImage

 

Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

 

From: A Heger <ashh...@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 7:46 PM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: CHPL funding

 

CAUTION: External email. Do not click links or open attachments unless verified. Report suspicious emails with the Phish Alert Button located on your Outlook menu bar on the Home tab.

Dear Orange County Commissioners,

Sincerely,

Reply all
Reply to author
Forward
0 new messages