Amid the endless firehose of political chaos at the federal level, you may have missed one very important race happening right here, in Seattle. On August 4th, Seattle voters will either approve or reject Proposition 1, and in doing so, will decide the future of our city’s public library system.
The 2026 Seattle Library Levy is a $479.76 million package that accounts for one third of the library’s overall funding for the next seven years. The funding supplied by the levy will support the library’s ability to remain open and accessible for the many people who seek its services. In addition, it funds seismic retrofit projects and ADA improvements to ensure Seattle’s 27 libraries remain safe and welcoming. Beyond the nuts and bolts of this levy, Prop 1 is an opportunity for Seattleites to send a clear message: public libraries deserve our support!
No city can truly thrive without trusted institutions and public servants. Libraries and library staff are uniquely equipped to meet the varied needs of the communities they serve – ranging from social service referrals to early learning to simply a safe space for folks of all ages and walks of life. Amidst the federal government’s attack on institutions and channels of public information, it is even more important to stand behind public libraries and the sense of community they foster.
The library is one of Seattle’s most loved and most trusted institutions. In 2025 alone, it logged 3.4 million in-person visits with an average of 24 check-outs per minute. With over 430,000 active patrons, the library is a pillar of our community, offering resources and programming for families, teens, immigrants, and seniors. This levy funding will allow the library to keep pace with rising demand by expanding its offering of both physical and digital materials.
There is no official opposition campaign to Proposition 1. In fact, there isn’t even a “no” statement in the voter’s pamphlet. However, we cannot assume this measure will skate towards victory. Last week, the Seattle Times Editorial Board recommended a no vote on the levy, citing concerns that the price tag is too large, and urging the City Council to instead approve a smaller
package to send to the ballot next year. However, there is nothing in this levy that is frivolous or unnecessary. 70% of the funding will go towards merely maintaining the same services provided by the expiring 2019 measure. The remaining 30% is allotted for capital improvements, expanding popular programming, and keeping pace with anticipated future needs due to our growing population and the high cost of electronic materials.
Let me be clear: if Prop 1 fails, our library system — and the over 400,000 people who rely on its services — will pay the price. At the end of the day, Seattle voters face a binary decision. A yes vote will go towards ensuring the library can keep its doors open, and its buildings vibrant and staffed. On the other hand, should the levy fail, the library will be forced into staff cuts, branch closures, and reduced collections.
The Seattle Times editorial board further believes we can’t afford to invest in libraries when the cost of living is so high, but libraries are an important resource especially when other costs are rising because they offer free resources in the form of wifi hot spots, internet access, books, digital subscriptions, museum passes, and career development tools. And, if approved, the 2026 Library Levy will represent only 7% of the total property tax a homeowner pays.
At a time in which equitable access to information and education are under threat from the federal government, this year’s Library Levy offers an opportunity to affirm that here in Seattle, we still believe that children’s literacy, accessible public resources, and safe community spaces are worthy investments. Please vote YES on Prop 1 by August 4th.
Jonnika Kwon is the campaign manager of Yes Seattle Libraries
