Voters in Eugene will soon decide whether to approve a new property tax measure aimed at increasing funding for the city’s public library system.
Measure 20-381, set to appear on the May ballot, would generate an estimated $4.3 million annually over five years for the Eugene Public Library. The proposal builds on previous voter-approved levies and comes as the library has faced budget reductions in recent years.
Supporters say the funding is essential to maintain core services. Dana Fleming, director of the Eugene Public Library Foundation, emphasized that the measure would provide stable, guaranteed funding through the five-year period.
If approved, the levy would help preserve current operating hours, hire an additional children’s librarian focused on early literacy, and revive programs like “Story Time 2-Go.” It would also expand resources for young children, particularly those aged 0–5.
Fleming noted that with declining literacy rates and reduced school funding across Oregon, strengthening early learning tools has become increasingly important.
The proposal also includes plans to install two lending kiosks, allowing residents to pick up and return books more conveniently. The first kiosk is expected to be located in the Churchill neighborhood, offering expanded access without the higher costs of opening a full branch.
The current library levy — approved by nearly 77% of voters in 2020 — is set to expire on June 30. According to officials, it is the primary funding source for library hours, materials, and new book acquisitions.
Without renewal, library leaders warn that residents could see reduced hours, fewer staff, and scaled-back services.
The new levy would cost homeowners 19 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, up from the current 15 cents. For an average homeowner, that translates to about $54 per year.
The upcoming vote will determine whether the community continues its investment in library services or faces potential cutbacks in the years ahead.
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