Update as of November 25, 2025
Thanks to your vocal support for adequate library funding over the past two weeks, the Spokane City Council voted to allocate an additional $500,000 to the library budget for 2026. We understand that this is a complicated budget season and economic climate and are grateful for the support of city leaders. (Thank your City Council representative here.)
Although we did not receive the full amount requested, this increase will bridge the gap and provide stability for the programs and services we deliver to the community every day. This means we will be able to continue current library operations, hours, and service levels for the entirety of 2026.
Our fight for fair library funding is not over. While the adjustment for 2026 gives us a reprieve from immediate service cuts, we will continue to work with Spokane City Council to ensure that we don’t face the same dire circumstances in 2027.
The response from you, our library customers, has been remarkable. We are grateful for the trust you have placed in us as well as your recognition of the value and impact of the library mission in our community.
Ensuring ongoing adequate funding for one of Spokane’s most valued institutions will take work, conversations, continued commitment, and creativity, but I’m certain we are up for the challenge. Your voice and vote matter, and we remain steadfast in upholding our community commitments.
Budget Update on November 7, 2025
Spokane Public Library services, as you know and enjoy them, are at risk due to another possible insufficient budget allocation from the City of Spokane.
In 2024, we saw 1.2 million visits, 1.1 million checkouts, and nearly 70,000 program attendees. Spokane Public Library is a deeply valued institution for the community. However, Spokane Public Library is facing increased costs and insufficient funding.
The City of Spokane provides 82% of the library’s budget through its general fund. That funding stayed flat in 2023 and 2024. In 2025, it was reduced by 5%, and the city’s proposed 2026 budget keeps that reduction in place. If approved, this proposal will force the library to reduce services and public hours.
Voters have said in four separate elections that they want to invest in library services:
- In 2013, voters approved a property-tax funded levy that funds 18% of operations; the levy was renewed by voters in 2017 and 2024.
- In 2018, Spokane approved $77 million capital bond to renovate four libraries and build three new libraries throughout the city. These projects were completed on time, and on budget. (Note: bond dollars cannot be used for operations.) We have tried to absorb the inadequate funding without impact to the public, but we have reached the point where the public will begin to see the effects.
To maintain our current level of services, the Library Board of Trustees submitted a proposed budget to City Council that includes an increased allocation of 15% to fully sustain our operations. The 15% increase makes up for the 5% reduction from 2025 and appropriately right-sizes the budget for 2026 to deliver on services as promised in our levy ask.
Simply put, the library is no longer able to sustain services without an adequate level of funding from the City of Spokane. Without an increased budget for 2026 and 2027, the library will be forced to implement a reduction in force and significant reductions in service levels, including eliminating programs, hours, and partnerships.
I urge you to share your support of adequate library funding by contacting your City Council person (contact information can be found here) and copy trustee@spokanelibrary.org and director@spokanelibrary.org.
Spokane Public Library has always been one of the city’s most trusted and beloved institutions—but that legacy now depends on the City of Spokane upholding its responsibility to fund the services voters have repeatedly said they value.
Sincerely,
Andrew Chanse
Executive Director
FAQs
How is the library funded?
The library is funded by a general fund allocation from the City of Spokane and a voter-approved levy
- A voter-approved levy provides 18% of the funds necessary to operate the library. The current levy is in place through 2027.
- A general fund allocation from the City of Spokane provides 82% of the budget.
- Supplemental funds from Spokane Public Library Foundation and Friends of the Spokane Public Library provide nominal funds for special events, programs, and services.
What percentage of the City of Spokane’s General Fund does the library receive?
Spokane Public Library currently receives 3.5% of the City of Spokane’s general fund. Pie chart taken from the City of Spokane’s 2025-2026 Budget Overview.
What about the voter-approved library bond?
Spokane voters approved a $77M bond in 2018 that allowed Spokane Public Library to build three new libraries and renovate four libraries and bring library services up to the standard you see today. These projects were completed on time and on budget. Bond funding cannot be used for operations.
What about the Spokane Public Schools bond or Parks Levy?
Those recent ballot measures on the November 4, 2025 ballot do not include any library services or projects.
How can I show my support?
Share your appreciation and support of maintaining adequate library funding by directing comments to your City Council person (contact information can be found here) and trustees@spokanelibrary.org.
