Oct. 17, 2017

The library is a great source of information and a boost for imaginations. The Kitsap Regional Library has reaching out to communities in order to spread the word about the Nov. ballot for a proposed levy. The proposed levy will raise the library’s regular property tax by eight cents per thousand dollars of the assessed value. The levy will add approximately $3.43 million to the 2018 KRL budget. Their goal is to try to shore the funding for the next five to ten years.

KRL has tried to get levies approved in 2007 and 2011 but both had not reached the final development stage. Branches had to cut Sun. hours, maintenance had to be delayed and staff members haven’t gotten a pay increase in nine years. If the levy doesn’t pass, the library would have to close an additional day per week, the library’s operation would be a disadvantage, it could even lead to the closure of two locations and the elimination of the bookmobile services.

“A lot of people in our community rely on the free access to information and technology we provide. If we are required to close a second day a week, that’s less opportunity for them to look for jobs, to get help with their homework and just so many different things,” said Director Mark Hughes. If the levy doesn’t pass, the library would have to close an additional day per week, the library’s operation would be a disadvantage, it could even lead to the closure of two locations and the elimination of the bookmobile services.

If the levy does pass, students and patrons can look forward to the revival of Sun. hours, an expansion of the educational programs, faster and better technology, internship programs, improving the facilities and employees who haven’t gotten pay increases in nine years (without the cost of living increases) will be having their salaries aligned to match the region and industry.

“It’s really important to the community as a place where people can enjoy reading and learning. Also to sometimes learn to read in fun ways with the special activities the library has on occasion,” said Freshmen Angela Eustaquio. The library currently offers 800 different programs for patrons and students, one of their programs are the “Read With a Dog” program where every third Saturday, citizens can come in to read to a dog. All of their programs are educational based or fun programs to allow patrons to relieve stress. 

 “I fully support this increase in order to provide resources or any kind of research that the community needs,” said one of their potential voters. The Kitsap Regional Libraries has served over 260,000 citizens, with the levy approved it could greatly improve their operations. An example is digital sign ins, only one branch has it but with the levy, they could implement it to different branches that could allow students to have easier access to technology. 

Any one who is a resident, 18 years or older and have no felony convictions are able to vote. Residents will be getting their ballots on Oct. 20 and ends on Nov. 7. In order for the levy to pass, the levy must have over 50% of the votes in its favor. For more information, go to their website: levy.krl.org and await your ballot.