Ohio Voters Approve 18 out of 20 Public Library Levies

On November 4, voters across Ohio once again demonstrated their strong support for public libraries, approving 18 of the 20 local library levies on ballots statewide. The approved measures included one bond issue, 13 renewals, three replacements, and one additional levy. Collectively, these passed by wide margins, with an average voter approval rate of 63 percent. The two levies that did not pass were decided by close margins.

“Ohioans continue to show their support for public libraries at the polls,” said Michelle Francis, Executive Director of the Ohio Library Council. “These results make it clear that Ohioans value their libraries and trust them to be responsible stewards of public funds.”

This strong show of support comes amid significant fiscal challenges. Earlier this year, the Ohio General Assembly passed a new state budget that removed the longstanding partnership, allocating libraries a set percentage of the state’s General Revenue Fund. That formula was replaced with a line-item appropriation, cutting library funding by $25 million in Fiscal Year 2026 and making future funding more uncertain.

At the same time, property taxes have become the primary funding source for public libraries. More than half (52%) of total public library funding in Ohio now comes from property tax levies, underscoring how vital local community support is to maintaining library services.

“Despite these headwinds, Ohioans continue to stand by their libraries, and we are incredibly grateful,” Francis added. “Voters clearly recognize that their local libraries deliver exceptional value and play an essential role in their communities.”

Since 2008, 92 percent of all library levies on Ohio ballots have been approved by voters.

Unofficial results of the public library ballot issues on the November 4, 2025 ballot