Ohio voters reaffirm support for libraries, approving 18 of 20 local levies

Voters across Ohio once again showed strong support for their public libraries, approving 18 of the 20 local library levies on ballots statewide Nov. 4, according to the Ohio Library Council.

The approved measures included one bond issue, 13 renewals, three replacements and one additional levy. Collectively, the measures passed by wide margins, with an average voter approval rate of 63%. 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.”

The strong show of support comes amid financial challenges following a $25 million funding cut to the Public Library Fund in the state’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget. With more than half — 52% — of library funding now coming from local property taxes, community support remains vital to maintaining services.

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

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

In Stark County, voters approved the Massillon Public Library’s 2.9-mill, five-year replacement levy with 3,186 votes in favor and 2,003 against — a 61% approval rate.

In Tuscarawas County, the Tuscarawas County Public Library’s 1-mill continuing replacement levy passed with 5,809 votes for and 5,266 against, a 52% approval rate. Voters also renewed the Newcomerstown Public Library’s 2.5-mill, five-year levy by a comfortable 66% margin, with 488 in favor and 248 opposed.