Franklin County proclaims Earth Day and National Library Week; library director details services and funding needs

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved proclamations recognizing Earth Day and National Library Week and heard a systemwide update from Andrew Vickers, executive director of the Franklin County Library System.

Vickers told commissioners that about two-thirds of the system's funding comes from a voter-approved dedicated library tax established in the 1960s and that this funding equates to roughly $23 per household for library services. He said the system saw strong growth in 2025, with circulation and digital content increases and about 30,000 more visits than the prior year. Outreach efforts included a bookmobile that made 537 stops serving more than 10,000 residents and a "book buggy" that makes nearly 249 stops at preschools and childcare centers.

Vickers identified a capital need: replacing the aging book-buggy that supports early literacy. The vehicle is currently estimated at about $230,000; the library system is seeking roughly $75,000 in additional funds or sponsorships to close the gap. He thanked sponsors including Patriot and noted community support and volunteers.

The commission read and approved proclamations: the chair read an Earth Day proclamation supporting conservation and local partnerships with the Buttonwood Nature Center; commissioners also approved a proclamation designating National Library Week (April 19'25, 2026) and posed for a group photo with library staff and sponsors.

What happens next: Library staff will continue outreach and fundraising for the book-buggy replacement and the commissioners acknowledged the library's request and applauded the system's outreach work.