Results of the First Library Ballot Initiatives in the Trump Era
The first three statewide election days of the Trump era have underscored a vital truth: libraries are not red or blue, not liberal or conservative, not left or right - they are essential.
Voters across Louisiana, Illinois, and Missouri came together to reaffirm their support for public libraries.
These wins reflect a shared commitment to community access, education, and opportunity. Even in a nationally disrupted and locally fraught climate, libraries continue to unify.
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Louisiana
In the recent Louisiana elections held on March 29, 2025, voters in Iberia, St. Tammany, and Ouachita Parishes approved critical millage renewals, ensuring continued funding for their respective library systems. These renewals are vital for maintaining library operations, staffing, programs, and facilities.
Iberia Parish: The 4.50 mills property tax renewal for the Iberia Parish Library System narrowly passed by 88 votes, with 4,480 in favor and 4,392 against. This renewal secures approximately $2.7 million annually, the primary source of revenue for the parish’s seven libraries. Had it failed, the library system faced potential closure due to financial shortfalls. EveryLibrary was able to provide training materials and resources for information-only campaigns.  
St. Tammany Parish: Voters approved (23,194 in favor and 19,068 against) a 4.35 mills library millage continuation, a voluntary reduced from the previous 5.35 mills. This funding will support library services for the next 15 years, including the renovation and expansion of the Slidell Branch and the construction of a new Lacombe Branch. The millage provides 96% of the library’s funding, highlighting its importance to the community. EveryLibrary and EveryLibrary Institute have been providing strategic support in a variety of ways to the St. Tammany Library community over the last 2+ years.
Ouachita Parish: The 7.64 mills property tax renewal for the Ouachita Parish Public Library passed with 55.6% of the vote (8,690 in favor and 6,953 against). This renewal is expected to generate over $10 million, funding maintenance, construction, renovations, and updates across all nine branches, including the main branch on Oliver Road. The passage of these millage renewals ensures that the library systems in these parishes can continue to serve their communities effectively, preserving essential services and planning for future improvements.
West Baton Rouge Parish: Unfortunately, the millage renewal did not pass in the March election. Library leaders plan to bring the measure back to voters later this year, warning that without renewal, library closures could begin as early as 2026. They believe the measure’s failure was influenced by down-ballot voting patterns, with some voters choosing “no” across the board due to the presence of four constitutional amendments on the ballot. As West Baton Rouge prepares for another vote later this year, continued community engagement will be critical to safeguarding library services for future generations.
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Illinois
In the April 1, 2025, consolidated election, several Illinois libraries sought voter approval for funding measures to support and enhance their services.
Area Public Library District: Voters approved a referendum allowing the reallocation of the expiring bond tax rate to the operational fund, with a slight increase. This measure addresses critical infrastructure repairs, ensures long-term financial stability, and enhances materials, services, and technology offerings. EveryLibrary contributed to the campaign by offering training materials and guidance throughout the process.
Ella Johnson Memorial Public Library District: Voters once again rejected the proposal to expand the Ella Johnson Memorial Public Library District with a second location. This time, the district requested $15 million to build a new facility in Pingree Grove—half the amount of last November’s $30 million request, which aimed to fund libraries in both Pingree Grove and Hampshire. Despite scaling back the plan, the revised measure did not receive enough support for the project.
Flewellin Memorial Library: In an effort to secure sustainable funding, expand services, and take control of its future, Flewellin Memorial Library placed a referendum on the ballot to become an independent library district. While the measure received 60% support overall, it narrowly fell short—missing approval by just 31 votes in the unincorporated Township. Despite broad community backing, this slim margin prevented the referendum from passing.
White Oak Library District: After multiple attempts since 2016, voters narrowly approved a tax increase to raise the limiting rate from 17.94 cents to 20.8 cents per $100 of assessed property value. This increase will generate approximately $700,000 to $800,000 annually, enabling the district to enhance services across its branches in Lockport, Crest Hill, and Romeoville.
Missouri
In Missouri’s April 9, 2025 municipal elections, library ballot measures brought mixed results, highlighting both strong community support and ongoing funding challenges.
Cape Girardeau Public Library: Voters overwhelmingly approved the library’s funding measure, with 70.77% (2,138 votes) in favor and just 29.23% (883 votes) opposed. This decisive win ensures the library can continue expanding services, maintaining facilities, and meeting the evolving needs of the community.
Ste. Genevieve County Library: In contrast, the ballot measure in Ste. Genevieve County fell short, receiving only 42.95% (1,184 votes) support compared to 57.05% (1,573 votes) against. The library board and leadership team will now face difficult decisions about where to make cuts as they adjust to a reduced budget.
EveryLibrary provided both in-person and virtual training and support to library boards, Friends groups, and local advocates in Ste. Genevieve and Cape Girardeau, helping to strengthen their campaigns and build community engagement around the ballot measures.
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EveryLibrary remains dedicated to helping libraries navigate the ballot box through expert training, advocacy, and strategic support - ensuring every community can stand up for the funding and resources their libraries deserve. This work is only possible thanks to the generosity of our donors.
If you believe in the power of libraries and want to make a difference, consider making a contribution - your support helps us continue this critical work in communities nationwide. Visit everylibrary.org/donate to give today.