FREDERICKSBURG, Texas — Some folks in Fredericksburg are unhappy after a beloved library cat named Pepper was told to pack her treats and toys and hit the road.

A viewer told us that the Gillespie County Commissioners Court and a judge held a closed meeting on Tuesday and decided their beloved kitty named Pepper must go.

We reached out to the Pioneer Memorial Library and were told by an employee that, “as a county employee, we can neither confirm nor deny that this happened.”

We have emailed the Gillespie County Judge for a comment and are awaiting their reply.

A change.org petition that was created to try and save the kitty from being evicted got just a few less than the 300 signatures they were trying to obtain.

You can still sign the petition CLICK HERE.

The petition reads, “Pepper, a beloved rescue cat, has brought joy and comfort to Pioneer Memorial Library goers. However, she is now at risk of losing her home. We are writing to call on town and County officials to allow Pepper to continue living in the place she has come to know as home. 

Pepper is not just a cat; she’s become an essential part of our community. She provides companionship to library goers, fosters a welcoming environment, and encourages younger visitors to engage with the library. An American Library Association survey found that library animals, like Pepper, significantly improve the atmosphere of public libraries, making them more approachable and friendly spaces.

In the face of these benefits, the decision to remove her is devastating. The right to a safe home is essential for everyone and every being, including our beloved Pepper. We believe there is a way for Pepper to continue to live at the Pioneer Memorial Library without causing any disruptions.

We plead with  local authorities to reconsider this decision. Let’s keep Pepper in her rightful home and preserve the unique spirit she brings to our library. Please, sign this petition to support keeping Pepper at Pioneer Memorial Library.”

Libraries across the country have cats to help them control rodent and insect population inside the buildings. Strays and rescues find permanent homes among the stacks of books, while others provide a much-needed service to the community in the form of therapy pets.

“Pepper the cat also has quite the local fan club, with people bring her food and treats and she gets a lot of attention,” said one library patron. “In turn Pepper provides a sort of therapy that is priceless for all that encounters her.”

We will update this story as we learn more about Pepper and whether she will land on her feet.