Chapel Hill residents push back on proposed county funding cuts to public library

Some Chapel Hill residents are voicing frustration with Orange County leaders over a proposal to cut $621,000 in county funding for the Chapel Hill Public Library during the next two years.

Several residents told ABC11 that they are unhappy with the Orange County Board of Commissioners and County Manager Travis Myren, who has suggested that residents can also use the Southern Branch Library in Carrboro.

The county opened that branch in March 2025 as Myren described it in a 12-page memo as providing “robust library services.”

“It makes no sense,” Chapel Hill resident Deneane Stanley said.

“It’s a great resource in this community. I wonder what the motivation is of the commissioners who are considering cutting back on the funding,” resident Dr. Glenn Withrow said. “This is a bright light in Chapel Hill.”

The Chapel Hill Public Library is operated by the town of Chapel Hill. However, Orange County contributes about 14% of its budget. Library officials said the proposed reduction could significantly affect services, including collections, programs and supplies. It could also lead to part-time staff layoffs and reduced weekend hours.

“My patients come here to get books that are helping them deal with their mental health problems,” said Withrow, a physician. He also said he visits the library a couple of times a week.

Stanley said the library’s free programs are especially meaningful for children.

“It is an adventure usually for children. The programs the library offers for free. They impact our lives,” she said. “And I say that because I grew up in a community that didn’t have a formal library. And I was there every day after school. Every book. I ate it up, ate it up, ate it up.”

Fowler may offer budget amendment

County leaders cite rising costs, inflation, a property tax revaluation, and decreased funding from multiple sources as reasons for the proposed cuts.

County Commissioner Vice Chair At Large Amy Fowler said she believes the county manager’s recommendation was reasonable given the financial pressures.

“Given all those things, you know, I was not surprised, and, you know, I thought he was fair,” she said.

Fowler also said she plans to offer an amendment to restore the library’s funding, paired with a tax increase — a proposal she is unsure will gain enough support.

“I think everyone, in general, loves libraries. But others are feeling more pressure to keep the tax rate down. And I totally understand that concern,” she said. “So, I am really not sure if this amendment will pass. I am hopeful that it does.”

What’s next?

Community meetings: The county is holding three drop-in budget sessions.

• May 14, 6-6:45 p.m., Whitted Human Services Center, 300 W. Tryon St., Hillsborough
• May 20, 6-7 p.m., virtual session via Microsoft Teams at orangecountync.gov/BudgetSession
• May 21, 6-6:45 p.m., Southern Human Services Center, 2501 Homestead Road, Chapel Hill

Public hearing: May 28 at the Southern Human Services Building in Chapel Hill. Meetings start at 7 p.m.

Budget approval: Commissioners could vote on amendments and a resolution to approve the final budget June 4. A budget vote is set for June 16.

More information: Orangecountync.gov/AnnualBudget

ABC11 is The News & Observer’s newsgathering partner.

This story was originally published May 13, 2026 at 10:38 AM.