Library Funding

[Mary Lobo]

Dear Board Commissioners,

I am writing because funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library is of tremendous importance to all children and adults living in our community. The library  is a great equalizer since it enables all county residents to research and read about topics they're interested in learning about. Moreover, the library is the site of many cultural events, including reading sessions for children every week. In an age when people, especially children, need more time with books and less time with screens, it is important for the county to financially support the wonderful and free access to literature for all residents of Orange County at the Chapel Hill Public Library.

It is of vital importance that the county maintain its support for the library by continuing to fund it and support the place that supports the community.

Thank you,

Mary Lobo

[Courtney Broadwell]

Dear Orange County Commissioners,

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

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

This has been a critical connection point for me as a new parent, and I believe it's important to continue to offer this space as a resource for information, groups, and community building.

The proposed funding reduction of $621,323 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,

Courtney Broadwell

27514

[Isabelle Grise]

Dear Orange County Commissioners,

As a resident of Chapel Hill, 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. CHPL supports members of our community at all age levels, from storytime programs geared toward infants all the way to senior citizen programs that build media literacy. These are our community’s children. These are our community’s elders. This is every person in between.

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,

Isabelle Grisé

109S Shadowood Drive

Chapel Hill, NC

[Marianna Whitson]

Dear Orange County Commissioners,

As a resident of Chapel Hill, 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 uses the library weekly, and it is such an important space for the entire community to learn and gather and take advantage of the amazing programming. 

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,
Marianna Whitson
406 Weaver Mine Trl

Chapel Hill NC 27517

[Jean Hamilton]

Dear Mary Lobo,

 

On behalf of the Orange County Board of Commissioners (BOCC), thank you for sharing your viewpoints about the county budget and phasing out the funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library. 

 

We appreciate the feedback as budget season continues with Budget Public Hearings on May 12 and May 28 and Budget Work Sessions on May 14, May 21, May 26, and June 4. These meetings as well as our regular business meetings provide an opportunity for resident to learn about how our county staff and the BOCC address budget choices. There will also be Budget Information Sessions on May 14, May 20, and May 21 for residents to drop in, ask questions of budget staff, and share their perspectives.

 

Sincerely,

Jean

 

Jean Hamilton, Chair

Orange County Board of Commissioners

---

From: Mary Lobo <mwy...@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 5, 2026 4:47 PM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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.

[Jean Hamilton]

Dear Courtney Broadwell,

 

On behalf of the Orange County Board of Commissioners (BOCC), thank you for sharing your viewpoints about the county budget and phasing out the funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library. 

 

We appreciate the feedback as budget season continues with Budget Public Hearings on May 12 and May 28 and Budget Work Sessions on May 14, May 21, May 26, and June 4. These meetings as well as our regular business meetings provide an opportunity for resident to learn about how our county staff and the BOCC address budget choices. There will also be Budget Information Sessions on May 14, May 20, and May 21 for residents to drop in, ask questions of budget staff, and share their perspectives.

 

Sincerely,

Jean

 

Jean Hamilton, Chair

Orange County Board of Commissioners

---

From: Courtney Broadwell <courtney...@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 5, 2026 7:10 PM

To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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,

[Carolyn Ferrell]

Dear Orange County Commissioners, 

I am very concerned about the proposed funding phase-out for the Chapel Hill Public Library and I was shocked to learn yesterday that this idea is even on the table.

I strongly urge you to vote to continue to fund our library, which is an essential resource in our community for all residents of Orange County. I moved to Chapel Hill 6 years ago, and our library is one of my very favorite places. I go just about weekly to read, check out books and movies, research, and learn, and I enjoy seeing people of all ages doing the same. 

Please reconsider your proposal and continue funding the Chapel Hill Public Library, which is an investment in education, economic opportunity, and the well-being of everyone in our county. 

Thank you for your service to our community. 

Kind regards,

Carolyn

Carolyn Ferrell

1128 Sourwood Drive 

Chapel Hill, NC 27517

(843) 345-3353

carolyn...@gmail.com

[Emily Newman]

Dear Orange County Commissioners,

As a resident of Chapel Hill and a native North Carolinian, 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. As a parent, the library is a
wonderland of possibility, acceptance and imagination for my young
children. It is also such a space of solace for parents to come and
allow the magic of the library to take over for a little while. From
baby storytelling to afterschool book exploration, the library has
been essential in our lives. Additionally, as a caretaker of an older
parent, the library has served as an intergenerational space everyone
can share.

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,

Emily Newman
Chapel Hill, NC - 27517

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Resident,

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

 

Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

 

From: Isabelle Grise <griseis...@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 12:47 PM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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,

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Resident,

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

 

Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

 

From: Marianna Whitson <marianna...@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 5:09 PM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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,

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Resident,

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

 

Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

 

From: Carolyn Ferrell <carolyn...@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, May 7, 2026 10:23 AM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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, 

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Resident,

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

Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

-----Original Message-----
From: Emily Newman <emilys...@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, May 7, 2026 11:31 AM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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.

[Vanessa Mills-Webb]

Dear Orange County Commissioners,

I am writing to implore you to retain all funding to the Chapel Hill Public Library. We moved from Boston to Chapel Hill eighteen years ago and I have been a member of the library since that time. I have been impressed with the outreach and resources of this library which is an important part of this community.

The proposed reduction in funding over the next two years would represent 72% of the library’s operating budget. In addition, 14,813 county residents would lose access or have to pay for membership. The library is an important resource for the whole county, and the benefits for the members would be hard to reproduce in other programs.

Every time I visit the library it is full of people of all ages, and it is a happy and peaceful space. The lovely new library in Carrboro opened about a year ago and statistically CHPL has seen no drop off in community engagement and membership. In addition, it is clear from just looking around at all the new developments, that the population in this area is growing rapidly. The library must keep pace with the town’s growth and not suffer a decline.

Chapel Hill Public Library offers far more resources and services than just lending books, it caters and cares for people of all ages and abilities: There are programs engaging and introducing kids to books and the love of learning. They have story time, and puppet shows, adventure backpacks, and summer programs. Teens have their own space and dedicated librarians, their own book clubs and game nights. Teens need a safe space to belong and thrive. I know that it was immensely helpful when my kids were that age.

For young adults through to our senior community, there are presentations, lectures, book clubs, tech support and research help. The library will even go to the senior center and preschools to bring the resources to them. There are also programs for neurodivergent and people with disabilities, and employment for them in the cafe in the lobby. There are open areas, study spaces and meeting rooms that facilitate the community. There is a tech lab and printers and copiers available to the public. I know that the budget doesn’t affect the spaces that already exist but the spaces allow programs such as the ones mentioned above and also things like senior chair exercises, free computer classes and tech support and Spanish programs, and an early voting venue. It contributes to the education, economic opportunity and well being of our county. In short, the library, it’s amazing staff and programs is a shining star in our community.

Thank you for reading this email, and thank you for your hard work for our county, I understand you have a lot to deal with. Please consider the things I have mentioned, and please continue the funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library.

Respectfully Yours,

Vanessa Mills-Webb
410 Overland Dr, Chapel Hill

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Vanessa,

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


Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanessa Mills-Webb <vmill...@icloud.com>
Sent: Sunday, May 10, 2026 10:10 AM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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.

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Linda,

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

 

Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

 

From: Linda Carmichael <lcmi...@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, May 11, 2026 11:48 PM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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 County Commissioners:

 

Please do not cut funding for Orange County libraries.

They are key learning hubs for our children and families and a gathering place for Orange County citizens.

 

Thank you for representing citizens of Orange County through your time and voice.

 

Sincerely, 

Linda Carmichael 

247 Summerwalk Circle 

Chapel Hill, NC 27517

 

 

Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer

[Tabitha Alexander]

Dear Commissioners,

As a resident of Chapel Hill, 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 was simply heartbroken to find this out.    

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

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.

Please look for other ways to reduce funding — not the library.   Recycling comes to mind — what is actually recycled, and having people pick thru recycling just to make sure it isn’t contaminated isn’t a good use of our funds.   Make that simple - cardboard and glass only.   

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

Sincerely, 

Tabitha Hall Alexander

401 Whitehead Cir

Chapel Hill, NC 27514

tahale...@me.com

919/265-7636 

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Tabitha,

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

 

Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

 

From: Tabitha Alexander <tahale...@me.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 8:52 AM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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 Commissioners,

[Joe Hyde]

Dear Orange County Commissioners,

I am a homeowner and voter in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I am writing to encourage you not to eliminate county funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library, as has been proposed. 

My family visits the Chapel Hill Public Library about two or three times a week. My daughters particularly enjoy story time and other events conducted for families with young children. My wife and I frequently check out materials both in paper and digital format, and we benefit from the services offered by the public library's excellent staff. Any reduction in the hours of operation, the resources available, and the services provided by the public library would work a hardship on my family. I believe that it would have a similar effect on others in Orange County. The decision has symbolic as well as actual consequences. Money devoted to the public library indicates commitment to a well-informed and educated citizenry. It would not do credit to the home of the nation's oldest public university to cut funding for the public library.

I am requesting that you continue funding the Chapel Hill Public Library.

Thanks,

Joseph L. Hyde 

Chapel Hill, NC 27514

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Joseph,

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

 

Sign up for Orange County News and Updates.

 

From: Joe Hyde <eugen...@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 2:21 PM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library 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,

[Glenn]

Dear Orange County Commissioners, 

As a resident of Chapel Hill, 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 funding it. I believe the library is an essential resource in our community, for all residents of Orange County. 

As a local preschool teacher, mother, and active community member, I strongly oppose cutting funds for the CHPL. The library is a staple in our community for people from all walks of life. Almost every day after school, my son and I go to the library to play chess, build Legos, walk the trails in Pritchard Park, or attend events. This library is a staple of his and many other children's childhoods. 

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,

Glenn Connolly

116 Vintage Drive

Chapel Hill, NC

27516

[Wil Glenn]

Dear Glenn,

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: Glenn <glen...@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 7:23 PM
To: ALL_BOCC_MANAGER_CLERK <OCB...@orangecountync.gov>
Subject: Library Funding

 

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Dear Orange County Commissioners,