Two library boards are at odd over how the county’s library system should be run and are confusing many residents over who actually has control over the system.

County Administrator Theron Gay tried to explain the ongoing squabble, but said he plans to remain on the sidelines.

“Years ago, the county created an oversight board to supervise the libraries, and incorporated an eastside library board when approval was given to build that library,” Gay said.

But a new coordinating board has now emerged on the scene that says it represents the libraries and would like to have approval over how library monies are spent.

“They’re not a part of the system and we have moved forward with a construction contract for the new library,” Gay said.

Many residents are wondering if this is merely small-town politics at work, but Gay doesn’t want to get into that argument.

“We’re following the guidelines of the state, since the county has the authority to set up the board to oversee the libraries. Until we’re told different, we’ll move ahead with the construction.”

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