Choose to improve your community ... this investment stays right here!
Support our Local Libraries
Support our community spaces by voting YES to continue the important services available at our local libraries!
Support Our Local Libraries
SUSTAINING LIBRARY SERVICES THROUGH CHALLENGING TIMES
After years of inflation, our libraries in Stevens County cannot maintain current services without additional revenue.
They have never received a levy lid-lift in 28 years.
- Libraries of Stevens County is asking voters to approve a one-time lift of the levy rate from $0.27 per thousand to $0.44 per thousand. For the owner of a $300,000 in Stevens County, this means a monthly increase of $4.25. This is the minimum needed to sustain current library services for the next 10 years.
- WA Libraries do not receive state funding (other than grant-based awards)
- Across the country, public libraries are under threat - from censorship to funding cuts to erosion of the "public good." Biased reporting, scam threats, and misinformation run rampant; yet library staff carefully and swiftly assist patrons daily with these difficult dilemmas.
- Some of the most remote areas rely on our libraries for internet connectivity, gathering spaces, and locker pickup for materials
This is our money... invest it here! This tax stays local.
Investing locally helps us all.
- Infants, babies, and toddlers have access to free books, storytime and songs, and learn crucial fine motor and language learning skills.
- Children are Kindergarten-ready, setting up families and local school districts for academic success.
- Programs offer all ages the ability to explore interests and expand knowledge at no extra cost.
- Public libraries promote lifelong learning and discovery so community members can grow and thrive
NOT PART OF COUNTY GOVERNMENT
Although LOSC serves people throughout Stevens County, it is not a part of Stevens County government. It is a junior taxing district, similar to a fire district or a school district. However, it covers the whole county– serving fifteen school districts, 45,000+ residents, and seasonal visitors & travelers.
This is YOUR library.
This is where we explore, learn, watch, and disseminate information throughout our lives - the access to lifelong learning and entertainment.
This is where you can ask questions and borrow resources - with your privacy protected.
This is where we can access free WiFi, computers, checkout a tool or game, improve your job skills, and more.
This is where book clubs meet, community gathers together, and friends socialize.
This is where you try new hobbies, learn new techniques, and build good habits.
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The Libraries need our support! Here's How You Can Help:
Libraries serve as essential community hubs that provide access to information, resources, and services. Supporting your local library ensures that everyone in Stevens County can enjoy these benefits. Here's how you can help:
- VOTE on Tues, April 28
- Put a sign in your yard/field
- Print and post a sign in your vehicle
- Write a letter to the Editor in support of our libraries
- Talk with your friends and neighbors to encourage them to support their libraries
- Join our efforts!
The Libraries in Stevens County Need YOU!
Want to join our efforts? Make a donation to the committee to help spread the word and support our Libraries!
A YES Vote Means:
- Maintain current level of staffing, open hours and services
- Restore cut services, such as weekend branch hours
- Continue supporting a robust collection of library materials, including physical and digital items, with minimal wait times and online/streaming resources
- Address deferred maintenance and facilities needs, including improved energy efficiencies, such as a new furnace for the Chewelah Library
A NO Vote Means:
- Cut staff, reduce open hours and eliminate services, which may include closing branches one or two days a week
- Reductions in library materials, including physical and digital items, increasing wait times and decreasing selection
- Cannot address deferred maintenance and facilities needs; this may force branches to close during low and high temperatures
- Abandon opportunities for library building projects, as administrative staffing would be insufficient for grant support needs
Support LOSC Libraries with Your Yes Vote
Your vote helps sustain programs, materials, staffing, and access to seven libraries throughout Stevens County. Every resident plays a crucial role in providing resources to our community. Join us in our mission to enhance literacy and access to information by donating today!