Keep our beloved library at its current location

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The Issue

For many of us in the community, the library at 4 Library Road is more than just a building filled with books. It's a cherished institution that represents the hard work and dedication of countless individuals who have contributed to its establishment and growth. This library owned by the board/county and beautifully situated on a hilltop, has played an integral role in our lives, offering a place of knowledge, gathering, and inspiration. 

The proposal to relocate this beloved library to Rush River Commons under a lease threatens to disrupt its very essence. It introduces uncertainties and potential long-term financial burdens that leasing entails, moving it away from a location that is perfect not only in visibility but also in communal value and cultural significance embedded in 4 Library Road.

Our library stands as a testament to community spirit and history. Its current location is owned, not rented, ensuring that every investment made directly benefits the library and its patrons without the detour of lease agreements. The site at 4 Library Road is surrounded by views and directly off 211, making it an easily accessible resource for everyone, from youth to seniors. Its potential for improvement rests on community-focused enhancements rather than the uncertainties of any leasing agreement.

Let's protect this invaluable asset for our community. Please join us in preserving the library's current location by signing this petition. Together, we want to ensure our library remains a community anchor at its rightful home for future generations. 

The Decision Makers

Rappahannock County Library Board of Trustees
Rappahannock County Library Board of Trustees
Responded
Thank you for your support of the Rappahannock County Public Library. Your feedback has been received and is under review by the Library Board of Trustees. If you are interested in learning more about the history of this project and the opportunity the Board is considering, we encourage you to visit www.rappahannocklibrary.org/expansion-renovation/ and review this 1-page outline: HIGHLIGHTS OF DRAFT AGREEMENT OF BUILD OUT AND MOVE TO RUSH RIVER 2 as of 23 July 2026 1. Black Kettle will build the Library in accordance with the Site Plan, Elevation Plan and Interior plan views that have been agreed to between the Library and Black Kettle’s architects, with features based on the Library’s study completed by Library staff and the Library’s architect. The building will be built to suit the Library’s stated requirements. 2. Black Kettle will pay all construction and permitting costs. In addition, Black Kettle is taking all the investment and construction risk for the project. 3. Black Kettle will gift the lease to the Library; i.e., NO RENT will be due or paid by the Library for the duration of the Library’s lease. 4. Library will pay $500 per month ($6000 annually) in fees, for common area maintenance, increased every twelve months by three percent (3%) per annum. The interest on the Library’s current endowment will cover this cost indefinitely. 5. Lease is for an initial ten (10) year term, with seven additional 10 year term renewals at the Library’s option for a total of eighty (80) years. 6. Black Kettle will be responsible for maintaining and repairing the building and the project. Library will be responsible for maintaining and repairing fixtures installed by Library and any damage caused by Library or its patrons. 7. Library will pay its utilities and insurance, as usual. 8. Library will not have to close or move during the period of construction. Space will be move-in ready. Library will furnish the space with its equipment, furniture and library materials and items. 9. Library space will be 8000-9000 square feet of custom designed space in accordance with the Library’s space needs study. 10. Library will be guaranteed twenty (20) designated parking spaces, with many more spaces available for use by Library patrons on a first come, first served basis. 11. The location is less than one mile away from the current library and will be easily accessible from Route 211. In addition, it will be accessible on foot for residents of the Town of Washington via foot paths and trails. 12. The new Library will be fully ADA accessible.

Supporter Voices

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