An investigation has been opened into misuse of public funds in the Three Rivers Regional Library System.
Jim Cote, chairman of the Three Rivers Regional Library System, confirmed the Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been called in to investigate the case.
Pierce County Library joined the Three Rivers System in July.
Cote declined to give specifics citing the ongoing investigation, including whether the missing funds were specific to a branch in the system.
He did confirm that staff members alerted the Board of Trustees that library funds may have been improperly used for personal credit card purchases.
“We immediately informed the appropriate authorities and have taken steps to secure library resources and facilities. Our library board takes this incident very seriously, and we are fully cooperating with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and local police,” Cote said. “The library holds transparency and community trust in the highest regard and is sharing this statement to inform the public and funders about steps we will take to ensure this never happens again.”
Cote expressed his thanks to library staff and to law enforcement officials who are guiding this process.
The Georgia Public Library Service has also been notified and is offering support and assistance.
