Supporting Continued Funding for CH Public Library

[Shawn Gavin]

Dear Members of the Orange County Board of Commissioners,

My wife and I use Chapel Hill Public Library frequently and deeply value the services it provides. But just as importantly, every time we visit, we are struck by how heavily used and vibrant the library is. We see people of all ages there, especially young people and seniors, using the space to learn, connect, study, attend programs, access resources, and simply be part of the community.

At a time when so many aspects of society feel fragmented and isolating, the library serves as an important public gathering place and point of connection. For young people, it provides a safe, enriching, and constructive environment that encourages learning, curiosity, and community engagement while helping keep kids and teens productively occupied and out of trouble. For seniors, it offers a welcoming and accessible place for connection, activity, and lifelong learning, helping to reduce the isolation that so often contributes to declining mental and physical health.

The space itself, along with the programs and services it offers, supports education, well-being, lifelong learning, and civic health in ways that are difficult to quantify but enormously important to the strength of our community.

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

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Shawn Gavin

Chapel Hill

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Shawn,

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

 

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From: Shawn Gavin <shawn...@yahoo.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 5:01 PM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Supporting Continued Funding for CH Public Library

 

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