The future of the Magnolia Springs Public Library (MSPL) is in jeopardy following the recommendation to close it by the Magnolia Springs Library Board. This discussion was brought up at the Magnolia Springs Town Council meeting on Feb. 27 where members of the Library Board and the community expressed their thoughts on the matter.

After extensive deliberation and consultation with the Friends of the Magnolia Springs Public Library, the Board proposed terminating the library's operations as a standalone municipal entity and dissolving the Friends' 501(c)(3) status.

The library has faced recent challenges, with frequent temporary closures becoming increasingly common. The Board's recommendation is primarily based on fiscal responsibility, highlighting the library's usage rate of approximately 3% of the town's population even before the recent closures. Additionally, comments during the meeting noted that the evolving and uncertain nature of both local and state-level library councils has prompted efforts to reorganize and explore alternative means of sustaining services.

The Board members highlighted changes in leadership within library associations at the state level as well as the potential dissolution of the Baldwin County Library Cooperative (BCLC) as factors influencing their recommendation.

"Baldwin County Commission don't want to be in the library business, and they have disbanded, at this point, the Library Co-op," a member of the library board stated at the meeting.

Other comments made by attendees at the meeting said that while it was true that county commissioners have reduced direct involvement, the Baldwin County Commission has committed to continue financial support to match previous funding levels.

During the meeting, a member of the Board read aloud the Library Board's recommendation, stating that the Baldwin County Library Cooperative is undergoing reform by the Baldwin County Commission to become a new legal entity providing joint library services. The recommendation further stated that the full extent and availability of these services remain unknown. Given this uncertainty, the board deemed it irresponsible to recruit a new director and keep the library open.

The Board's recommendation included suggestions for the town's comprehensive plan, urging that new town facilities incorporate space for community group meetings and activities at no charge. They also proposed additional services like a computer lab and a volunteer-led help desk.

"We know that our recommendation for termination of the library may cause unhappiness and a sense of loss," the recommendation said.

It's worth noting that while the current Library Board is proposing a closure, they envision reopening the library with a complete restructuring. This includes integrating a new Library Board and incorporating the Friends of the Magnolia Springs Library. This new library structure would need to take place after any pending decisions and reformations within the Alabama State Library Council and the BCLC. The envisioned model would operate as a nonprofit entity separate from Magnolia Springs and Baldwin County, and be funded by personal and corporate donations, with extended hours to enhance community service.

Regarding the current patrons of MSPL, interim measures have been proposed to address their needs during this transition period. Suggestions include utilizing the Bookmobile, which currently offers mobile library services in Magnolia Springs and could provide a convenient alternative for accessing reading materials and resources. Additionally, the Library Board is encouraging residents to make use of the services available at nearby institutions such as Fairhope Public Library and Foley Public Library.

Unfortunately, Magnolia Springs residents who do not have a library card will not be able to obtain one at the Foley Public Library, as the service is only available to Foley residents. However, any Baldwin County resident with a current library card can access the Foley Public Library's services. Magnolia Springs residents can obtain new cards at Fairhope Public Library and other Baldwin County libraries.

In November 2023, the Magnolia Springs Public Library announced a leadership transition on Facebook, reaffirming their commitment to library service while utilizing the Bookmobile as a temporary solution. Similarly, in December 2023, a Facebook post informed the community of the possible dissolution of the BCLC and ongoing efforts to ensure continuity of interlibrary and Bookmobile services.

Some attendees at the meeting expressed concerns about the library's closure. They noted that while the Fairhope and Foley libraries are alternatives, many elderly residents may struggle to access them. Additionally, attendees highlighted the library's role in hosting programs for young children and attracting young people, emphasizing that there is no other similar space in Magnolia Springs for youth to gather.

"This town without a library is taking so many steps backward," said one commenter present at the meeting.

The library's fate will be determined at the March 26 council meeting.