Residents urge Polk County supervisors to keep library funding at current levels

Dozens of residents addressed the Polk County Board during public comment on Sept. 15, urging supervisors to preserve library funding and oppose cuts proposed to the library service rate.

"People spoke up because libraries matter deeply to Polk County. They're not just buildings with books," said Rhonda Mullen of Lincoln Township, asking the board to "keep whole county library strong and stable." Maggie Christensen, also of Lincoln Township, described the library as an "invaluable asset" that helps residents save money and supports teens and job-seekers. "When our public library thrives, our community thrives," she said.

Michelle Merritt, who identified herself as a member of the library board, told supervisors the system is currently funded at 95% and cautioned against lowering support to 70%. "Think of our library going down to 70% — not fully functioning. You're affecting programs, materials, staffing," she said, arguing a funding cut would reduce services for children, seniors and households without reliable internet.

Several other speakers offered historical and community perspective: Nell Anderson recounted local women's club efforts that founded the Amory library and urged continued investment for future generations; Kathy Hink noted the library funding is a pass-through tax and said unused library funds "can't be spent somewhere else." A resident who identified only as Rodver described multi-generational family use of county libraries and urged continued support.

The remarks preceded routine business. Immediately after public comment the board approved Resolution 3826 to set the 2027 library service rate and accepted a donation of archived deed/index books from Northwest Land Title.