- Event Overview: James City County residents attended a community session on Monday at the James City County Recreation Center to discuss a proposed 25,000-square-foot library addition to a new government center.
- Attendance and Format: Approximately 80 people participated in an open house-style session, viewing displays and asking questions.
- Project Details:
- The library addition is estimated to cost $49.58 million, in addition to the government center’s $189.5 million.
- It would be the third branch of the Williamsburg Regional Library system, alongside the James City County Library (Croaker Road) and Williamsburg Library (Scotland Street).
- Purpose and Need:
- The regional library system aims to replace the aging Williamsburg Library and has needed more space since 2019, as per the county’s capital improvement plan.
- The new library would enhance convenience by sharing space with the government center.
- Community Input:
- Residents like Garland Dalton attended to learn about the project’s plans.
- Library system employee Pam Scott highlighted the excitement of expanding access to books and services.
- Library Services:
- Beyond books, the library offers computer and Wi-Fi access, resume support, reading groups, lectures, and support for Williamsburg-James City County Schools and social services.
- Leadership Perspectives:
- Library Director Sandy Towers emphasized building a modern library for the community.
- County Administrator Brad Rinehimer noted the library’s evolving role and strong community support, countering perceptions that libraries are underused.
- Regional System and Funding:
- The Williamsburg Regional Library serves James City County, Williamsburg, and York County, with York County as a funding partner.
- Discussions are ongoing to tweak contracts, with hopes York County continues support due to residents’ use of the facilities.
- Next Steps:
- A second input session is scheduled for 4:30–7 p.m. July 9, 2025 at the James City County Recreation Center.
- Further information and a survey are available at wrl.org/new-library and jamescitycountyva.gov/4104/Proposed-CountyGovernment-Center.
Community Discusses Proposed Library
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