Librarian takes a swipe at trustees over contract dispute

Libraries and toilet paper don't seem like two topics that would generate much controversy. But the combination of the two - toilet paper in the library - has the manager of the Hulbert Community Library a bit chafed.

Georgie Drees, manager of both the Tahlequah and Hulbert libraries, recently submitted a press release to the Daily Press requesting donations of toilet paper, paper towels and trash bags for the Hulbert facility.

According to Drees, the town of Hulbert has provided those materials to the library since the facility first opened almost a decade ago, but suddenly stopped doing so about six weeks ago.

“No toilet paper, no paper towels, no trash can liners - and they also said they would not replace light bulbs when they burn out,” said Drees. “They had supplied all these things in the past, and I'm curious as to what changed.”

What changed, according to Hulbert Town Trustee George Truitt, was the trustees' interpretation of their contract with the Eastern Oklahoma Library District.

At their August meeting, the trustees renewed that contract, which stipulates the town of Hulbert is to provide “custodial service as frequently as necessary to meet requirements for cleanliness and safety that are appropriate for a public facility, but no less than twice weekly and more frequently when the need exists.”