Area of Impact: Funding
Our services rely on consistent funding; without it, we experience cycles that disrupt longer-term continuity of service and progress toward our goals. Our funding resources need to support ongoing and increasing costs related to personnel, collections, facilities, technologies, programs and information services.
Our Goal
Align existing financial resources to support current and future community needs, and explore funding resources beyond the City’s general fund and seven-year levies.
How We Will Make an Impact
We will:
- Develop a 2026 levy proposal to support the community’s Library needs from 2027-2033.
- Explore opportunities to supplement or replace seven-year levy funding cycles.
- Seek additional private giving in collaboration with The Seattle Public Library Foundation.
- Modernize and streamline internal systems to ensure effective management of public and philanthropic funds.
- Partner with The Seattle Public Library Foundation and the Friends of the Seattle Public Library to advocate for the benefits and importance of libraries.
What’s Next
2025-2026 Priority Activities
- Assess community and organizational needs to inform the development of the 2026 library levy renewal proposal.
- Ensure strategic organizational alignment with The Seattle Public Library Foundation and the Friends of The Seattle Public Library to secure added private giving and advocacy.