Results of Libraries on the Ballot in Illinois

Voters once again affirmed that libraries matter deeply to their communities.

While two measures fell short by narrow margins, one community successfully moved forward, underscoring both the strong support libraries continue to enjoy and the competitive, closely watched nature of these local decisions. From the effort to establish a new district to proposals for significant facility improvements and expansion, these results reflect how central libraries remain to civic life, and how engaged residents are in shaping their future.

FISHER

Fisher Community Library: Voters considered a measure to formally establish the Fisher Community Library and create a dedicated public library district to serve residents.

Vote Total:

YES: 386 | 46.17%

NO: 450 | 53.83%

Establishing a new library district requires extensive community organizing, legal compliance, and sustained local engagement. EveryLibrary supported the Fisher ballot committee from the beginning of the process.

Our support included direct consultation through the petition process, strategic guidance from filing through Election Day, and ongoing campaign support. EveryLibrary also built and provided the committee website to ensure residents had access to accurate information about the measure.

EveryLibrary’s campaign strategist attended the Community Information Session in person to stand alongside local leaders and support the effort directly.

GLENCOE

Glencoe Public Library: Voters weighed a 17.5 million dollar referendum to fund a major building project for the library.

Vote Total:

YES: 1,168 | 66.4%

NO: 590 | 33.6%

This referendum represents a significant investment in the future of the library’s facilities, accessibility, and programming capacity.

EveryLibrary provided support for both the official information campaign and community advocates encouraging residents to Vote Yes. Our role focused on strategic guidance, training materials and resources, and strong community outreach.

MAHOMET

Mahomet Public Library: Voters considered an 8.9 million dollar bond measure to support a library expansion project.

Vote Total:

YES: 1,316 | 48.7%

NO: 1,386 | 51.3%

As communities grow and service demands increase, expansion projects help libraries meet evolving needs for meeting space, youth programming, technology access, and community gathering areas.

In Mahomet, EveryLibrary provided support to the library staff and board during the public information phase of the campaign. This included direct consultation, training materials, educational resources, and guidance on compliant communications.

EVERYLIBRARY IS HERE TO HELP

EveryLibrary remains dedicated to helping Illinois libraries and community leaders navigate the ballot process through expert training, advocacy, compliance guidance, and strategic support.

This work is only possible thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters.

If you believe in the power of libraries and want to help communities protect and strengthen them at the ballot box, consider making a contribution. Your support allows us to continue this critical work across Illinois and nationwide.