What does the levy do?

Our libraries offer critical programs for Seattle’s kids, families, and most vulnerable residents – which are all supported by our Library levy. Your Yes! on Prop 1 to renew the Library Levy means:

  • About 10,000 additional hours of service systemwide, including more Sunday and evening hours
  • More popular print materials
  • Access to digital materials, including e-books, e-audio, streaming movies and downloadable music, available 24 hours a day online for folks who have mobility or time constraints
  • Up-to-date computers, high-speed internet, Wi-Fi and technology learning systemwide
  • Library buildings that are well-maintained, accessible and earthquake safe
  • Resource connections for teens who need help with housing, transportation, addiction, and more
  • Expanded early learning support and classes for parents, babies and toddlers, preparing them for success in school

Where does the Library Levy invest money?

The Library Levy invests all 27 library branches in every neighborhood across our city, from materials and programs to seismic improvements. It also invests in the virtual library which is available 24 hours a day across the globe.

How much will the levy cost?

Fifty percent of the cost of the levy is paid for by commercial real estate. It will cost the average homeowner about $3 more per month. This investment on everyone’s part will allow us to protect the critical investments we’ve made over the years and renew our commitment to a great neighborhood library system.

Is this a new tax?

This levy is not a new tax; it replaces an expiring levy. Seattle voters understand the importance of libraries and stepped up in the last recession to restore hours and services.

Renewal of the Library Levy will cost about $3 per month more for the average homeowner.

What happens if the Library Levy doesn’t pass?

The Library Levy represents 25% of the Library’s budget so a failure to pass Prop 1 and renew the Library Levy will mean:

  • Reduced library hours
  • Fewer literacy classes and homework assistance
  • Reduced investment in collections, increasing wait times for materials and fewer popular books and digital materials
  • Deferred maintenance on aging and seismically-unstable buildings
  • Delayed upgrades to computers, printers and other technology
  • Cuts to library staff
  • Potential closure of branches

Failure to pass this levy also leaves the library exposed in the case of a recession; we need a continued investment in our libraries to ensure they can weather economic ups and downs and continue providing their services to our community.

Who supports Prop 1?

The Library Levy has been endorsed by the Seattle Library Foundation, Friends of the Seattle Public Library, and more! Our campaign is speaking with groups and earning more endorsements every day though. Please add your name to the growing list here!

Why fund our libraries through a levy?

Seattle voters understand the importance of libraries and stepped up in the last recession to restore hours and services through our Library Levy.  The Levy accounts for 25% of the Library’s overall budget so a failure to pass Prop 1 and renew the Library Levy will mean: 

  • Reduced library hours
  • Fewer literacy classes and homework assistance
  • Reduced investment in collections, increasing wait times for materials and fewer popular books and digital materials
  • Deferred maintenance on aging and seismically-unstable buildings
  • Delayed upgrades to computers, printers and other technology

Why is the Library Levy proposing a ‘Fine Free Environment’?

While our Library will continue to charge fees for lost or damaged books and materials, Prop 1 will remove one of the greatest barriers to access and equity – late fines.

There is significant research about the performance of the over fifty fine-free libraries in the nation, two of which are here at home — Kitsap County and Sno-Isle Library systems.  Sno-Isle has been fine-free for 35 years since and serves a population significantly larger than Seattle. Those libraries have found that late returns have not increased, more materials are returned, and participation among all users has increased significantly. Fines simply don’t turn people into responsible borrowers.

Just as important, when we use late fees in order to raise funds to pay for library operations, we disproportionately impact those who can least afford to pay those fines. Other library systems report that even the fear of a fine is enough to keep many people from using the library. The guilt and shame people fee over library fines creates a negative association with libraries and drives them away.

Given the dramatically increased use of fine-free e-materials, using fines as a source of library operating revenues is an unsustainable revenue source. Today fines and fees account for two percent of the library budget; this is unsustainable. We have to solve that funding problem, and we can do it while achieving greater equity.

It is important to note that the library will still charge a fee for materials that are damaged or never returned. Library users may not keep their materials indefinitely or harm them. This measure simply removes the penalties for late returns.

Our libraries should give all people, regardless of background or income, the opportunity to learn, access resources, and excel. Prop 1 will remove inequitable barriers to access for every neighbor across our city.