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 Glenn Withrow said. "But this is a bright light in Chapel Hill," he said of the library.
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," Withrow said. 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."
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.
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"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."
The Board of Commissioners is scheduled to hold a public hearing and work session on the budget at 7 p.m. on Monday in Hillsborough.