The Rochester Public Library is seeking approval from the people of the community for a proposed tax levy increase aimed at funding the public library and its referendum. The ballot will open to all Sangamon and Christian County residents on November 5, 2024, consisting of a .25% to a .42% property tax on the community to go towards the library funds. On average, homeowners would pay an extra $37 per month with the tax increase.
The Public library has dealt with fighting rising inflation prices since 2013, causing a dire budget problem. “After more than five years of budget cuts we face difficult times.” said one of the Rochester Library’s staff. Since the last 5 years of the building’s presence, the library board has reduced hours and staff, services, programs, and technology. Even with the library’s growth in usage over the last years since the coronavirus, budget cuts are still made each year causing them to ask for a tax levy increase.
If the tax levy is voted yes the Rochester library will use the new budget to finance the proposed 2023 expansion plan that has been brought back to life. As noted on the Public Library’s website, an additional 7,100 sq ft is planned to be built. With the additional space, the library is planning to add a craft & story room, maker space room, and even an adult collection with new computers as well as much more.
The Library hasn’t had an updated since the year it was built in 1995, and It’s approaching its 30th year. Many mechanical systems have finally reached their end and are breaking down. Only in 2015, two heating and air conditioning units were replaced. The district plan was last updated in 2017 but never got anywhere due to underfunding. The Rochester library would not answer any questions legally on the topic but does wish to be a neutral party in the 2024 voting ballot questionnaire.
