What happens if the Library Levy does not pass?

From staff positions to Peak Picks, from seismic safety to language learning programs, Levy funding touches every part of our Library. The Levy is not merely additive — it is essential to SPL operations.

Ballots featuring Seattle Proposition 1, the proposal to replace the expiring 2019 Levy with a new measure, arrived in mailboxes last week. Votes are due two weeks from today on August 4.

While the new 2026 Levy offers enhancements that patrons have asked for — including an expansion of digital materials, programs to help people build literacy skills, and essential capital improvements at libraries — it is also important to consider what would happen if this Levy is not approved:

• More than one-third of the Library’s funding in 2027 (and beyond) would disappear. SPL would be forced into drastic budget reductions.

• Library staff jobs would likely be lost. A quarter of the 600-plus positions at SPL, including one-third of all children’s and teen librarians, are Levy-funded.

• Branches might close or see significantly reduced hours due to staffing shortages. Free programs like Story Time, author events, and many others would likely be scaled down substantially.

• Half of the budget for books and materials would be lost, significantly increasing hold times and decreasing the range of reading options, including the likely elimination of Peak Picks.

• The City would be forced into a long and complex process to restore funding. Cuts are highly unlikely to be addressed in the regular budget process, given the City’s revenue situation.

• While another ballot measure could be brought forward and approved eventually, the Library and its patrons could feel these adverse budget impacts for a year or more.

Seattle voters have a critical choice to make about the future of our Library between now and August 4. Learn more about what the 2026 Levy funds and find your ballot drop box (like the one outside the Central Library pictured above), then get out and vote!