Sylva passes resolution in support of Fontana Regional Library
UPDATE: The initial version of this story noted that the resolution passed unanimously. Due to poor video and audio quality of the meeting, Commissioner Blitz Estridge's "no" vote appeared to be a "yes" vote. The story has been updated to reflect the true vote tally.
Two weeks after spearheading the removal of a resolution in support of the Fontana Regional Library system from the Sylva Board of Commissioners agenda, a move he later called a “rookie mistake,” Commissioner Jon Brown made good on his promise to introduce a new resolution of support, which passed July 24 — more than a month after Jackson County commissioners voted to leave the system over LGBTQ+ content.
Jackson County votes to leave Fontana Regional Library system
Editor's note: this story has been updated with a statement from Cynthia Mason Womble, acting chair of the Fontana Regional Library system board.
In a historic decision that will reshape the future of public library services in Jackson County, commissioners voted Tuesday night to withdraw from the Fontana Regional Library system after months of controversy over content and control.
‘It’s got to go’: Commissioners want to remove Jackson libraries from FRL
Anyone who thought that two years, dozens of meetings, thousands of dollars and hours of public comment to reach a new interlocal agreement between Jackson, Macon and Swain counties for the Fontana Regional Library would spell the end of the controversy over local libraries thought wrong.
Commissioners address library security
A Jackson County commissioner brought up the issue of library security during the commission’s March 4 meeting, citing safety concerns for staff at the Jackson County Library in Sylva.
Jackson, Macon, Swain reach FRL agreement
Macon County has approved a new version of the Fontana Regional Library interlocal agreement that contains changes made by all three counties in the system. This marks the end of almost two years of controversy over the library agreement, libraries themselves and the merits of a regional library system.
Jackson County approves new library agreement
The Jackson County Commission has approved a new version of the Fontana Regional Library interlocal agreement that contains some significant changes to the revisions previously put forth by Macon County.
High-speed internet grants awarded in WNC
Jackson, Swain refuse proposed FRL agreement changes
Neither Jackson County nor Swain County commissions have agreed to approve the changes Macon County proposed to the Fontana Regional Library agreement, citing legal and logistical concerns.
Library board member is an embarrassment
To the Editor:
Diann Catlin is a member of the Macon County Public Library (MCPL) Board of Trustees. It is her job to act professionally and remain neutral in regards to the business of the library. She has not done this.
Swain secures funding for library expansion
Marianna Black Library is set for a major expansion and renovation thanks to funding from several parties, including a large allotment in the state budget.
