Library funding at risk without new tax measure

During a recent city council meeting, public speaker Cecilia Harris urged council members to consider a half-cent tax increase on the upcoming ballot to secure sustainable funding for essential services, particularly the local library. Harris highlighted the strong community support for library services, emphasizing their role in providing vital programs such as child development, literacy improvement, and free access to technology.

Harris noted that the library serves a diverse population, including both the housed and homeless, and called for the East Side Library to also operate seven days a week, similar to the central library. She requested that the library be explicitly mentioned in the ballot language to ensure it remains a priority for funding once the tax measure is passed.

The council members responded positively, with one member moving to support the staff recommendation to place the tax increase on the ballot. The discussion reflects a growing recognition of the library's importance in the community and the need for ongoing financial support to maintain and enhance its services.