On November 7, 2023, the Garnet A. Wilson Public Library of Pike County will propose the renewal of its operating levy, costing $20.62 for the owner of a home valued at $100,000. The levy accounts for 40% of the library’s operational funding, has a 10-year span, and will not increase taxes.
In 2009, libraries financially took a hit due to the economy and the library’s first levy was introduced to help restore operating funds. Thanks to the support of the community, the levy was passed in 2009, and again in 2013 with an overwhelming majority of 72% in support.
With the passing of the original operational levy in 2009, the library was able to extend its operating hours, and with the renewal, maintained those hours, allowing greater accessibility for community members with varying schedules and commitments.
With 40% of funding going towards operational need, the library has been able to focus money from the Public Library fund on expanding outreach, creating programs for all ages, bolstering digital services, and offering new, updated materials for public use.
“Providing facts of the library’s operational funding is vital for the community to see where tax money is going and how it affects library funding as a whole.” states Library Director, Natosha Massie. “For the library, a stable and predictable source of revenue allows for better long-term planning and budgeting. This stability is important in times of economic uncertainty.”
Community members can find the amount of taxes paid by looking at the Pike County auditor’s website, searching for their property and selecting “Where Your Taxes Go.”