Fern Ridge Library Director Colin Rea said on April 16 that voters in the Fern Ridge Library service district will be asked to renew a local option levy in the upcoming May election. The measure, known as Measure 20-385, would keep current library operations at the same rate for residents: 35 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value for five years.
The outcome of this vote is important for maintaining library services and programs that many community members use. Rea said he often hears from people who appreciate offerings such as story time, Lego club, and tax help provided by AARP during tax season.
Rea described the library as a welcoming space for all ages. “We like to think of ourselves as kind of like the living room of the community,” Rea said. “It’s a place to come and do everything from work on your taxes to sit quietly and, for some people honestly, get out of the weather, get out of the rain.” He also highlighted his favorite part: “The best part of the Fern Ridge Library is the kids area,” he said.
Rea explained that an election serves as feedback from residents about how well their needs are being met. “For us, an election is kind of like a survey. We’re going to find out whether what we’re doing right now is enough for this community,” he said. “And if they value us enough to continue funding us the way that we’ve been funded.”
Because there is still one year left before the current levy expires, Rea noted there will be two more opportunities after May to seek voter approval if needed. However, he warned that failure to renew could lead to staff reductions and cuts in open hours and programming.
The decision made by voters will determine how library services continue in Fern Ridge over coming years.
