The Libraries of Stevens County in Washington are set to reduce their service hours by an additional 50 hours per week. This decision follows the failure of an April 2026 levy intended to increase funding for the libraries. The proposed levy sought to raise property taxes by $0.17 per one thousand dollars of assessed value, which voters did not approve.
Impact on Local Libraries
As a result of the levy failure, libraries in Chewelah, Colville, Kettle Falls, Lakeside, and Loon Lake will close on Mondays starting June 15. Northport and Hunters libraries will close on Fridays beginning June 26. These closures are part of a broader effort to address a budget shortfall of nearly $250,000, exacerbated by rising costs, including a projected 14% increase in medical insurance in 2027.
The library district’s budget is heavily reliant on property tax revenue, which can only increase by 1% annually by law. This constraint, combined with a 250% increase in Washington’s minimum wage, has left the district with limited options. Library Director Amanda Six explained that staffing, which constitutes 75% of the budget, must be reduced to balance the budget. Some staff have opted for voluntary layoffs or reduced hours, while others face mandatory reductions.
Community and Staff Impact
The reduction in hours will have significant effects on both library staff and the community. All 31 employees across seven locations will experience unpaid furloughs for six days in both 2026 and 2027, with additional furlough days for nine full-time administrative staff. These measures are expected to save $31,662 annually.
In addition to reduced hours, the library district will not hold storytimes this summer, although the Summer Reading Program will continue. Other programs, including those for infants to senior citizens, will be eliminated. Despite these cuts, the demand for library services remains high, with a reported 854% increase in downloadable usage over the past 15 years and over 24,000 patrons using the library’s Wi-Fi.
For more information on the library closures, residents can visit the Libraries of Stevens County website or contact Library Director Amanda Six directly.
Original reporting: KREM Spokane — read the source article.
