Speakers at Beltrami County's meeting said proposed reductions to regional library funding would have a direct, human impact on residents who rely on library services.

Sherilyn Warren, who identified herself as a branch manager at the Midgee Public Library, told the board that a proposed 40 percent cut to staff at the regional library system would translate to the equivalent loss of roughly 3.6 positions out of nine, and could reduce the Bemidji library's weekly open hours from 56 to about 35. "When I say that we're losing 3.6 employees, that doesn't mean we're losing 3.6 people. That could be 5 employees depending on the hours that they work," Warren said.

The concerns were echoed by other residents. Christie, who said she tutors students and holds a master's in literacy, described recurring problems with the library's digital checkout limits that prevent patrons from checking out e-books after roughly 1 p.m. most days. "What does that mean when I'm tutoring at 7 p.m.? It means we can't use the library to get books," she said, adding that the limitation affects her ability to provide tutoring services and can push money out of the local economy when families pay commercial services instead.

Sherry, a longtime library supporter, framed the issue as one of community values: "Do we value education and the promotion of literacy?... Do we value a safe, quiet space where you can just be and not have to buy something?" she asked the board.

Cheryl Schaeffel offered usage statistics: she said approximately 14,000 people hold library cards in Beltrami County (which she said is about 30 percent of residents), and that 9,000 used the library's internet services in 2024 (which she described as about 20 percent of residents). "The library provides those resources," she said, linking the services to the county's stated mission to promote community and family strength.

Randy Berg, who said he attended the prior work session, urged the board to consider alternatives to cuts, including tapping reserves or recalculating the levy, and argued the county has an obligation to fully participate in the Kitchigami Regional Library System: "Because Beltrami County has libraries, it must be a member of a regional library system, and it must provide funds to maintain that system," Berg said.

Board members did not take immediate action on the library comments during the public comment period. Several speakers urged the board to consider the social-service functions the libraries provide beyond book lending, including access to computers for benefits applications, socialization opportunities for isolated residents, and safe spaces for people escaping domestic violence.

The speakers' remarks during public comment were limited to five minutes each; the board heard multiple callers and then proceeded with the published agenda.