Editor’s note: This letter is addressed to Heather Bonney, director of the Sampson County public library system. It was requested to run as a letter to the editor.)

I received your letter concerning bookmobile services and I am confused. I understand a hiring freeze, but I assume the salary for a Bookmobile Librarian would already be in place for this year. Therefore, I do not understand your postponing seeking a replacement for the Bookmobile. From where would the salary have come if the Bookmobile Librarian had not left?

Over the past year, there have been several rumors that the Bookmobile would be discontinued. Commissioner Jefferson Strickland and Commissioner John Blanton, as well as printed quotes from the Library, indicated that the Bookmobile was vital to Sampson County. Recent events make me wonder if we (the patron of the Bookmobile) were given correct information. When Library staff have been questioned about the Bookmobile, they appear to be either afraid to answer or have been told not to answer.

I challenge you to compare the number of patron assigned to each of the branch libraries: Clinton, Roseboro, Newton Grove, Garland and Bookmobile. Also, compare the circulation of each Branch. This should prove whether or not the people of Sampson County utilize the Bookmobile.

According to The Sampson Independent article printed March 26, 2010, there is money available to purchase new computers. It seems that people who actually read are not being considered. I do not live within 10 miles of any branch library. I believe that if you drew a 10-mile circle around each branch library, I think you would realize that you are leaving out approximately one-half of our large county. The Bookmobile has been a faithful servant of the people of Sampson County.

I realize that we cannot live in the past. If it is time to take the Bookmobile off the road, the PLEASE do it in a dignified manner, not deceitfully as many of the action thus far seem to indicate. We the people of Sampson County are intelligent and deserve straightforward and reason when decisions that affect so many people are made.

The Bookmobile has meant so much to too many people to see it just cast aside.

Sincerely,

Sheila H. DeBose

Richard R. DeBose