Spokane Public Library services at risk
A Special Budget Message from Executive Director Andrew Chanse. November 6, 2025
Spokane Public Library services, as you know and enjoy them, are at risk due to another possible insufficient budget allocation from the City of Spokane.
In 2024, we saw 1.2 million visits, 1.1 million checkouts, and nearly 70,000 program attendees. Spokane Public Library is a deeply valued institution for the community. However, Spokane Public Library is facing increased costs and insufficient funding.
The City of Spokane provides 82% of the library’s budget through its general fund. That funding stayed flat in 2023 and 2024. In 2025, it was reduced by 5%, and the city’s proposed 2026 budget keeps that reduction in place. If approved, this proposal will force the library to reduce services and public hours.
Voters have said in four separate elections that they want to invest in library services … Without an increased budget for 2026 and 2027, the library will be forced to implement a reduction in force and significant reductions in service levels, including eliminating programs, hours, and partnerships.
I urge you to share your support of adequate library funding by contacting your City Council person (contact information can be found here) and copy trustee@spokanelibrary.org and director@spokanelibrary.org.
Spokane Public Library has always been one of the city’s most trusted and beloved institutions—but that legacy now depends on the City of Spokane upholding its responsibility to fund the services voters have repeatedly said they value.