Eugene Public Library newsletter highlights Comics College, Love Your Library, levy debate

The Eugene Public Library’s February newsletter spotlights a slate of programs for all ages while also flagging upcoming public information on a library levy likely headed to voters. The newsletter lists a “Love Your Library” art show and contest, a levy-info episode of the Inside Eugene podcast, in-person meetups to discuss levy-funded services, and the launch of “Comics College” - the latter noted in the bulletin but with its description truncated in the copy provided to the newsroom. The library’s Instagram invited the public to upcoming events and warned: “We can't wait to see you there! ⭐ Look out for more information to come soon about the library levy that will likely be on your May 2026 ballot!”

Routine monthly programming continues at the system’s three locations, with offerings ranging from support for young readers and parents to teen activities, entertainment for all ages, and tools and skills training for individuals and small businesses. Most Downtown Library rooms are equipped with hearing loop systems compatible with personal hearing aids, and the library will provide loop receivers or arrange an ASL interpreter with two business days’ advance notice by phone at 541-682-5454. The newsletter encourages residents to sign up for eNews and points to volunteer and donor options through the Eugene Public Library Foundation and Friends of Eugene Public Library.

The levy debate, which will determine funding for roughly 17% of the library’s budget, was the focus of a Jan. 28 City Council discussion. The current five-year levy approved in 2020 charges 15 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, about $37 per year for a typical house, and would expire in June if not renewed. Reporting differs on which replacement the council actually advanced at the Jan. 28 meeting.

Lookout Eugene reported councilors supported a 2-cent increase to 17 cents per $1,000 - a rate it said would raise about $3.86 million annually and cost the average home roughly $49 per year - and that Councilor Mike Clark moved to advance that option while directing staff to research the cost of adding a book-vending kiosk. Lookout quoted Clark: “There’s an awful lot of people who are waiting for us to act.”

By contrast, the Register-Guard reported councilors selected what it called the second-highest option at that meeting, a 19-cent levy that would generate about $4.3 million per year and cost an average homeowner $54 annually, and said Eugene voters would decide on the levy in a May 21 election. The Register-Guard also published a voter survey showing 76% satisfaction with the library and 61% usage among respondents. Linda Ague, president of the Friends of Eugene Public Library, framed the outreach challenge and opportunity this way: people notice small price differences like “stores selling products for $14.99 instead of $15,” and “We have a task in front of us to make sure people understand the value of the money that they will be asked to spend,” adding she doesn’t “think that will be hard” given kiosk popularity elsewhere.

Until city council minutes or the staff levy packet are released, the official council action on Jan. 28 remains unclear. Readers should expect the library to publish full program details, registration info, and formal levy language in coming weeks; those seeking accessibility accommodations can contact the library at 541-682-5454. The council’s next steps and any staff cost estimates for kiosks will determine whether voters see a 17-cent, 19-cent, or another levy option on this spring’s ballot and how the library plans to allocate renewed funds for services across Eugene.