Vote August 5, 2025
Why is funding needed for the Library now?
State law limits the Library’s annual property tax revenue growth to 1% per year, which has not kept up with rising costs. Since voters last approved a levy in 2017, the Library has worked within these limits while continuing to meet community needs. The 2025 levy provides vital funding to maintain hours, collections, and programs. Without it, essential services—like early literacy resources, collections, and technology access—will be reduced, and delayed maintenance could lead to limited access and may not reflect the evolving needs or expectations of community members, starting as early as next year.
How much will it cost?
Kitsap Regional Library is funded primarily through property taxes, currently set at $0.27 for every $1,000 of assessed property value. If approved, the tax rate will increase to $0.39 per $1,000 of assessed value for 2026. For a property valued at $500,000, this would mean an annual increase of approximately $60.
The levy will not fund new construction, such as a library in Port Orchard, which is being built with private fundraising and grants.
If Yes: Proposition 1 Passes
Expand Learning for Kids, Teens & Babies
- Improve early learning support for parents, babies, and toddlers to build a strong foundation for success in school.
- Enhance after-school and summer programs to bridge educational gaps.
- Increase career development opportunities for teens, providing hands-on learning experiences.
Improve Access to Technology
- Update computers, internet services, and printing resources.
- Expand digital learning resources for all ages.
Enhance Library Spaces & Collections
- Improve library buildings to continue to provide functional, accessible spaces for learning and meeting.
- Maintain a broad collection, including books, ebooks, magazines, audiobooks, and learning kits.
Check out frequently asked questions about the Library leading up to the election.
If No: Proposition 1 Does Not Pass
Without increased funding, the Library will face cuts to collections, programs, and technology. Delayed maintenance will reduce access, make spaces less welcoming, and limit the Library's ability to serve the community.
Reducing Books, Programs & Services
Limiting Critical Technology Upgrades
Delaying Essential Maintenance & Improvements
Your Community-Funded Library
Kitsap Regional Library is a locally funded system of nine libraries providing free access to books, technology, programs, and welcoming spaces to all. Serving more than 107,000 households, opens a new window across Kitsap County, the Library supports learning, curiosity, and connection for residents of every age and life stage.
In 2024, there were more than 86,000 active cardholders—accounts used by individuals, families, educators, book clubs, and more. This number includes Student Library Accounts—a partnership with three school districts providing every student and teacher with access to public library resources.
The Library’s shared collection includes more than 300,000 physical items and over 60,000 digital items, opens a new window—including books, ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, movies, music, and learning tools—all free to borrow with a library card., opens a new window More than 2.5 million items are borrowed or renewed each year, a reflection of how deeply the Library is woven into daily life across Kitsap.
Through mobile services, opens a new window, we bring the Library directly to healthcare facilities, group homes, and individual residences, reaching those who may have physical challenges visiting a branch. Personalized support is available every day, whether it’s help with technology, finding your next great read, applying for a job, learning digital skills, or navigating life’s challenges.
Ninety-six percent of the Library’s $18 million annual budget comes from local property taxes, an investment that keeps this essential public service open, equitable, and thriving.
