Important Library Tax Renewal Meeting Set for February 12

Your award-winning East Baton Rouge Parish Library system is at a crossroads, and your voice matters! On Wednesday, February 12, at 4 p.m., the Metro Council will consider a resolution to renew the Library’s dedicated property tax millage. This public meeting will be held in the Council Chambers of the Governmental Building at 222 St. Louis Street.

What You Need to Know:

• This is a Renewal, NOT a New Tax. The Library is simply asking to continue its dedicated funding at a lower rate than in the past 30 years.

• The Proposed Rate is Lower. The request is for a millage renewal at 10.5 mills, compared to the previous 11.1 mills.

• It Funds All Library Operations. This tax covers everything—from keeping the lights on to major repairs, improvements, and services for the next 10 years.

• Next Steps: If the Metro Council approves the resolution, voters will decide on it in the October 11, 2025 election.

The Mayor’s Alternative Proposal: A Potential Funding Shift

While the Library is seeking to continue its dedicated funding, the Mayor’s Office has proposed an alternative resolution that would redirect all of the Library’s tax funds into the City-Parish General Fund.

Under this plan:

• The Library’s funds—both future and past voter-approved tax revenues—could be used for any City-Parish department or project.

• There’s no guarantee of how much funding the Library would receive each year.

• Library funding could fluctuate from year to year and change with different administrations.

On February 12, the Metro Council will introduce this proposal, with further discussions planned for March. If it advances, voters will have the final say in the October 11, 2025 election.

Why Your Input Matters

The East Baton Rouge Parish Library has long relied on this funding to keep its services running. The upcoming decision will determine how well the Library can continue supporting the community in the years ahead.

Make sure your voice is heard! Attend the Metro Council meeting on February 12 at 4 p.m. or stay updated at ebrpl.com/about/library-millage-proposals.