YOU CAN HELP KEEP OUR LIBRARIES OPEN!
The San Juan County Library System has requested an increase in the tax levy to start in 2020. This would be the first tax increase for the county libraries in more than 10 years.
The requested tax increase will cost the average homeowner approximately $12 a year more than they are currently paying. That is less than the cost of one hardcover book or DVD.
If you love your libraries and the services offered, please voice your support at the Public Hearing on Wednesday, December 4th at 6:00pm in the County Administration Building in Monticello.
Why this increase is needed:
--The cost of supplies and services, as well as of books, audio books, e-materials and DVDs has increased over the last decade, but the tax revenue has not.
--The Library Fund has diminished over the past few years so that any major repairs to a library building may cause cutbacks in services at all libraries, countywide.
--A patron survey done in 2018 showed that residents of San Juan County appreciate their libraries and would like to see more services offered. Currently, with income from taxes being stagnant for so long, adding services is currently not possible.
What happens if there is no increase?
--Without an increase in tax income for the Library System, it is unlikely that the current services at all seven county libraries can continue much longer, resulting in reduced services and/or library hours.
--Should one of the library buildings require major repairs, it is possible many services would have to be reduced.
--Improvements and growth of the Library System would not be possible.
PLAN TO ATTEND THE PUBLIC HEARING ON DECEMBER 4TH AT 6:00pm TO VOICE YOUR SUPPORT OF THE LIBRARY SYSTEM!
Libraries are the heartbeat of a community!
