Spokane libraries merit continued voter support

Will the ballot measure to renew the library levy make Spokane a better community?

Book it.

The measure asks Spokane voters to lift the annual property tax limit to continue the expansion of operations and services that began as a result of a 2013 special election. That assessment was adopted by two-thirds of voters and expires this year.

Consider that Chapter 1.

Chapter 2 would be a yes vote to renew the levy at the current rate for seven years. Ballots will be mailed next Wednesday and are due on April 25.

To understand the need, return to 2012 when the libraries were running on reserves. The City Council had myriad budgetary pressures, including public safety, and library operations suffered. Branches were put on limited hours, and the East Side, Hillyard and Indian Trail locations were in danger of closing.

The council agreed to let voters decide the fate of library operations, and they responded with resounding support. As a result, those branches have remained open and for more days and longer hours. The Shadle branch began opening on Sundays.

Progress will continue if voters agree to 7 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. That amounts to $14 a year for the owner of a $200,000 house. That’s less than the cost of a new book. The assessment raises about $1 million a year.

If you’ve been to the library lately, you know it’s about more than checking out books.

Customers can also find music, movies and e-books. They can use the meeting rooms. A budding entrepreneur can tap knowledgeable staff to research and devise a business plan.

The levy has allowed the library to expand its reading, learning and technology services. Digital streaming became available. The library purchased more books and e-books and expanded its collaboration with schools, community organizations and retirement centers.

Because of its multitude of services, the library has become the best place to search for a job.

The community has responded by using libraries more. Since 2013, library visits are up 41 percent. Use of library computers and Wi-Fi is up 89 percent, and there’s been a 6.6 percent increase in materials checked out.

The levy lid lift accounts for 11 percent of the library’s budget, so a no vote would be a significant cut. The specter of limited hours and possible branch closings would return. The positive momentum of the past four years would be lost.

Spokane’s libraries have been modernized, but staying current requires continual change. Each branch needs upgrades to keep pace with the digital information demands.

The library’s leadership has followed through on its promises of four years ago. It should be trusted to continue to improve services.

Say yes to Chapter 2, and keep this positive story moving.