Euclid Public Library Seeks to Renew Operating Levy in May

Euclid Public Library looks to renew its 5.6 mill levy this spring. 

This May, the Euclid Public Library will ask residents to renew its current 5.6 mill five-year operating levy that supports services and programming for more than 47,000 residents in the City of Euclid.

The library’s 4-mill renewal levy and 1.6-mill additional levy initial ask was approved in November 2014 by more than 63% of the voters.

“We are grateful for the support of our residents, and we have been diligent and responsible with the funding we have received despite cuts to library funding and reduced revenue from property tax,” said Euclid Public Library director Kacie Armstrong. “We discovered ways to save money and expand our offerings without impacting the level of service to our community.”

Since 2014, Euclid Public Library has identified new ways to provide patrons with cutting-edge services. EPL expanded its program offerings for adults and families, increased skills and job readiness training through Ohio Means Jobs, and began passport acceptance services in fall 2016. Additionally, in early 2018, EPL launched personal Wi-Fi mobile hotspots check out to library cardholders.

David Piskac, fiscal officer for the library, stated, “The operating renewal, which generates $3.1 million each year, will not increase taxes, and will cost the taxpayer $115.85 annually, based on a $75,000 property valuation.”

In addition to traditional offerings such as books, internet, and computer access, Euclid Public Library provides early literacy and STEAM programs in community schools and supports Euclid preschools and daycares, and homebound patrons by way of Outreach Services – one of the few remaining libraries in the area to offer the needed service.

For more information about the Euclid Public Library and a listing of services and programs, please visit www.euclidlibrary.org.