Manatee County Library Supporters Take Action to Keep Libraries Funded

BRADENTON — Three organizations that support the Manatee County Library joined the statewide “Keep Libraries Funded” coalition this week in sounding the alarm on Amendment 3, a November ballot issue that puts public library funding at risk.

The Library Foundation of Manatee County, the Friends of the Island Library and the Friends of the Lakewood Ranch Library are working together to inform library users and supporters of the value of their public libraries and the potential dramatic impact on county funding for libraries and other county services if Amendment 3 passes on November 3.

The Florida Policy Institute estimates that Manatee County will lose $212,000,000 in ad valorem tax revenue in the first year if Amendment 3 becomes law, with more in subsequent years. The County instituted a hiring freeze last January in departments supported by the General Fund, including libraries. Consequently, library hours were reduced systemwide on August 1 with the potential of more cuts to come.

“We want the community to know the value of library resources and services—and how they contribute to the quality of life in Manatee County," said TJ Kornett, President of the Board of Directors of The Library Foundation of Manatee County. "There are story hours for preschoolers, homework help for K-12 kids, enrichment programs for adults, tech training for seniors – and so much more. We want to help the community understand what will be lost if libraries and other vital community services are not adequately funded. We want people to think about that before they vote in November.”

The Manatee County League of Women Voters is presenting information sessions on amendments on the November ballott at each of Manatee County Library’s 7 locations in September and October. Dates and times are available at https://manateelibrary.libcal.com/calendar/events

Amendment 3 would raise the homestead exemption on non-school property taxes, reducing local government revenue across Florida by an estimated $11.9 billion annually. “Quality of Life” services—including libraries, parks, and cultural programming—typically make up 25– 35% of municipal property tax revenue.