Library Spending Story Needs More Chapters
Former Library Director Jeff Scott, Library Trustee Chair Ann Silver, Commissioner Mariluz Garcia who is pushing for full funding for the library, with no questions asked. Now that’s great fiscal responsibility on the part of Garcia.
The financial saga unfolding at Washoe County Library raises more questions than a mystery novel. With a base budget of $12 million annually, the library system has accumulated additional funding requests to stay “whole” $1.3 million from the Washoe County General Fund and $3.2 million from the Library Expansion fund — and now we’ve got Baker & Tayler $850,000 and OverDrive, Inc. $300,000 asks from recently-resigned director Jeff Scott that was on the commission agenda.
Washoe County Board of County Commissioners Meeting - Agenda Item #8 - April 22, 2025.
The most troubling plot twist? County commissioners have appare1ntly been rubber-stamping these escalating expenditures without proper oversight, while the public remains in the dark about the library trustees' financial recommendations or concerns.
Before taxpayers are asked to cover another chapter in this costly narrative, citizens deserve a comprehensive external audit to answer fundamental questions: How did expenditures grow so dramatically? What was the money actually spent on? Did commissioners exercise appropriate oversight? And most importantly, did residents receive proper value for these increasing investments? Best question, what the heck is happening at the library, budget wise.
Commissioner Mariluz Garcia’s social media post April 2025.
The resignation of Director Scott creates the perfect opportunity for financial transparency before another dollar leaves county coffers. The question now isn't just about funding libraries—it's about ensuring fiscal responsibility in how those libraries are managed. Washoe County residents shouldn't have to check out this financial mystery from the reference desk—they deserve clear answers and accountability for their tax dollars.
A page out of the 2024 Washoe County budget.