Vote Yes on Proposition 1 by August 4
Our libraries are critical to the strength of our communities, providing education and children’s reading programs, free access to books and technology, spaces to gather and learn, and online resources available to all.Proposition 1 on the August 4th, 2026 Primary ballot is a replacement levy to continue vital services to families, seniors, students, job seekers, and communities across Snohomish and Island counties.
Public libraries are one of the last places where everyone is welcome; free, open, and shared by all. Today, they’re busier than ever, serving as lifelines for learning, connection, and opportunity. But they’re at a crossroads.
In Washington, libraries are funded by local, voter-approved levies. The last levy lid lift passed in 2018, and without renewal in 2026, essential services are at risk. As independent public agencies, library districts rely on community support to keep doors open, retain dedicated staff, and provide the books, resources, and programs people depend on.
For many residents, libraries are the only reliable source of:
- Free internet access
- Computers and printers
- Digital literacy assistance
- Research support
- Safe public gathering spaces
- Storytimes and literacy programs
Sno-Isle Libraries Depend on Local Funding
Unlike many public services, Sno-Isle Libraries are an independent library system. Local library levies provide the vast majority of funding needed to keep libraries open, staffed, and serving our communities.
The current levy is limited by statewide 1% cap on revenue growth and can no longer keep pace with rising costs, increased use, growing demand for digital materials, and inflation. This replacement levy will ensure libraries can continue to provide the services people rely on every day.
The measure aims to restore the levy rate to $0.47 per $1,000 of assessed property value. The last library levy was restored in 2018. This is the normal way public library districts are funded in Washington state.
The Need is Growing
Every day, thousands of residents use Sno-Isle’s 23 community libraries, and online and bookmobile services, including:
- Borrowing books, audiobooks, and e-books
- Accessing the internet and Wi-Fi
- Applying for jobs
- Using computers and printers
- Attending Storytime and youth programs
- Finding a safe, welcoming public space
Last year alone, there were more than 1.7 million Wi-Fi connections in Sno-Isle libraries.
Community Impact
Our communities rely on our libraries every day.
The library is the only institution that serves all people throughout their entire lives – from early learning, to homework help, to parenting and job resources, to programs for adults and seniors. Sno-Isle Libraries remain committed to free and equal access to information.
For Kids & Families Storytime and youth literacy programs help children develop critical reading skills and prepare for success in school.
For Students Libraries offer homework help, study spaces, research tools, and internet access.
For Job Seekers Many residents rely on libraries for internet access, printing resumes, completing applications, and accessing online services.
For Seniors Libraries provide connection, classes, technology assistance, and welcoming spaces that reduce isolation.
For Rural Communities Bookmobiles and outreach programs help ensure access to library services across the district.
For Everyone Sno-Isle Libraries are committed to free and equal access to information for everyone, without political or ideological bias.
Libraries protect the freedom to read, learn, and explore ideas — values that are increasingly important today.
Facts & FAQ
Is this a new tax?
No. This is a replacement levy that renews and restores funding for Sno-Isle Libraries as the current levy expires.This measure restores an existing voter-approved levy.
The 2018 levy cannot keep pace with higher costs and growing demand. Sno-Isle has stretched dollars to keep libraries open and buildings safe. The population grew 15% since 2018 and is expected to grow another 15% in the next decade. These growing communities rely on libraries to offer accessible hours and safe places, books and materials for homework help and lifelong learning, and storytimes and early literacy programs to raise young readers.
Why is additional funding needed?
The current levy was approved in 2018 and no longer keeps pace with inflation, rising operating costs, increased use of library services, digital resource costs, and growing community demand.
The levy funds day-to-day library operations and services that communities rely on, including librarians, collections, technology, outreach, and safe public facilities.
Opponents compare today’s budget to 2018 without accounting for inflation, population growth, rising costs of digital services, expanded usage, and increased demand for community programs.
How much will this cost taxpayers?
Estimated monthly increases are approximately:
- $7/month for the median home in Island County
- $10/month for the median home in Snohomish County
The levy will still represent less than 5% of a typical property tax bill.
Are libraries being fiscally responsible?
Yes. Sno-Isle Libraries are independently governed, publicly audited, and accountable to taxpayers.
The levy funds day-to-day library operations and services that communities rely on, including librarians, collections, technology, outreach, and safe public facilities.
Why can’t Sno-Isle just “do less with less”?
Doing less means reducing services people rely on every day:
- Fewer open hours
- Reduced Storytime and youth programs
- Longer wait times for books and e-books
- Reduced staffing
- Less access to technology and internet services
- Cuts to outreach and bookmobile services
- Deferred maintenance
Libraries are busy and important to our neighborhoods. They can never be replaced by AI or the internet.
Libraries today provide far more than physical books. They offer internet access, digital materials, technology support, educational programming, meeting spaces, and community services used by thousands of residents every day.
What happens if the levy fails?
Without replacement funding, Sno-Isle Libraries would likely face significant service reductions affecting staffing, open hours, books and collections, Bookmobile service and community access.
How You Can Help
Our population is growing, costs are rising, and the need has never been greater. Community volunteers are stepping up to protect this vital resource.
Now we need you. Help sustain and strengthen our public libraries for everyone.
Vote yes on August 4.
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Questions? Email info@yesforlibraries.org
Vote on August 4!
Paid for by Yes for Libraries | PO Box 432
Edmonds, WA 98020 | info@yesforlibraries.org