B(Editor’s note: This letter, addressed to the Sampson County Commissioners, was also submitted as a letter to the editor by its author.)

Dear Editor:

ookmobile patrons in Harrells received letters on Friday, March 19, stating that service would end March 29. I cannot believe that patrons were not give more warning of this development. It is inconceivable to me that a service I have used since I retired here over 12 years ago would deliver a letter of this magnitude on their last visit.

I am a retired school administrator and have also served as a school public relations director. I understand that budget cuts happen and can appreciate the decisions that have to be made. I have had to do this numerous times.

I do take issue with the lack of forethought by the director to meet the needs of a rural population. Service could have been maintained by lengthening the time between visits or establishing a central meeting location. Staff from the main branch and other branches could have been used as rotating substitutes.

I have bragged to friends that I worked with in the Research Triangle area about our bookmobile. It provides a service that is an asset to senior citizens and those of us that live a long distance from a library facility. I am computer literate and utilize this avenue, but enjoy reading books!

I am requesting a report of the circulation of books for the main library, the three branches and the bookmobile for 2009. I would also like for you, the commissioners, to study the needs of the total county and your obligations to serve all of its population in a fair manner.

I lived in Raleigh for over 30 years and used the library there. I also have property in Duplin and Pender counties and have used their facilities. I have always been treated with respect at these sites. The two times I have visited the Holliday facility I have been concerned with the lack of knowledge and public relations skills exhibited by that staff.

The director talked with me today and led me to believe that the county is responsible for this decision. I would ask you to rethink you position. The bookmobile staff has always been most courteous and helpful. They not only provide a service for the rural population but they display a positive image for the county.

The Sampson County Library certainly does need a positive representative! It is my hope that this is director (Heather) Bonney’s decision and not our commissioners. I have read the communication from the director several times and I sense that this was more her decision than a board decision.

I eagerly await your response.

Sarah Eakins Ragan

Harrells