Public Library Officials Say City Libraries Face ‘Drastic’ Cuts Without Tax Extension

Pasadena’s Department of Libraries and Information Services wants to extend a special real estate tax set to expire next year that accounts for 20% of the library system’s budget by placing a measure on the November 8 ballot.

About $2.8 million annually of the Pasadena Public Library’s budget comes from the Special Library Parcel Tax, which is set to expire in February 2023. The Special Tax has been in effect since July 1993.

Approval by two-thirds of Pasadena voters is necessary to approve the extension.

The Department of Libraries said the City Council will need to act before Aug. 8 to meet the deadline for the measure to be placed on the Nov. 8 ballot.

“Continuing this funding source will keep libraries open and well-maintained, help support fire safety systems, provide up-to-date library materials, continue to offer access to computers, Wi-Fi, and retain qualified librarians,” the Department of Libraries said in its report to the City Council, which has including the recommendation in its agenda for Monday, July 11.

Today, almost 140 years from the time it was established, the Pasadena Public Library now boasts of a variety of media, including books, magazines, art, music, and digital articles.

The main library and its eight branches also provide free access to Wi-Fi and computers. Residents can also check out Chromebooks or hotspots from their local branch, or utilize printing services. Youth and educational programs such as Steam @ the Library, Storytime, and Homework Help are free.

The Pasadena Public Library branches also provide free exhibition and meeting spaces, as well as video and board games for checkout. To sum up, over the years the Pasadena Public Library collections have vastly expanded beyond shelves of books.