Libraries face massive budget cuts after WC1 voted down
A $4.5 million funding gap looms over the Washoe County Library System following the recent failure of ballot measure WC1. The measure would have renewed a property tax that supported library services for nearly three decades.
The original tax, approved in 1994, allocated two cents from every $100 of assessed property value to the library system. This funding has been used to expand and maintain library services.
“Over the next few months, I will be putting together proposals on service reductions with my library team and library board,” Libraries Director Jeff Scott said. “When the Expansion Tax expires on June 30, 2025, those cuts will be enacted. More information will be released as we work through this tough budget.”
A citizen petition seeks to maintain the funding dedicated to libraries, rather than allowing the tax dollars to flow into the county’s general fund.
“Many voters were confused by the ballot language, which some felt implied a tax increase rather than a continuation of existing funding,” said Bradley Leavitt, who launched the online petition. “Some who voted ‘no’ are now expressing regret online. Advocates emphasize that libraries remain a cornerstone of community life, particularly for those who rely on free resources.”
The tax has been used to build the Northwest Reno, South Valleys, Incline Village and Spanish Springs libraries. It has also funded renovations at five other libraries. Scott in July warned what could happen if the ballot measure did not pass: Libraries will face a multitude of cuts including layoffs, the elimination of the book and technology budgets, and library branches will lose weekend and evening hours.
Scott now says the $4.5 million budget shortfall means drastic cuts for the library system.
“This funding was essential in keeping weekend and evening hours at our branches,” he said. “Now, with a $4.5 million deficit, our $17 million budget is reduced to a little over $12 million. This budget includes 23 library staff, $1.4 million in books (the entirety of our book budget) and $200,000 of our technology budget. This loss will result in a reduction of public services.”
Leavitt’s petition urges county commissioners to redirect funds back to the library system, aiming to ensure its services remain accessible to all community members.
