Voters across Ohio approved 12 of the 14 public library levies on the May 5 primary ballot, reinforcing what recent statewide research has already shown. People continue to value their local libraries and the services they provide.
According to the Ohio Library Council, all renewal and renewal-with-increase levies passed, each receiving at least 64% of the vote. Measures seeking new or additional funding also performed well, with more than 70% earning voter approval. Only two of them did not pass. (https://members.olc.org/news/Details/ohio-voters-show-strong-support-for-public-libraries-approving-12-of-14-levies-330118)
“These results send a powerful message,” said Michelle Francis, Executive Director of the Ohio Library Council. “At a time when there is active discussion about eliminating property taxes in Ohio, voters made it clear they are willing to invest in services that matter. Ohioans trust their libraries to be good stewards of their tax dollars and are willing to support them at the polls.” (https://members.olc.org/news/Details/ohio-voters-show-strong-support-for-public-libraries-approving-12-of-14-levies-330118)
Across the Lake to River Region, the Rock Creek Public Library in Ashtabula passed its levy in support of the library with a 59% approval. (https://www.olc.org/assets/pdf/OLC+Library+Ballot+Results+for+May+2026/)
The election results line up with recent statewide research showing strong, bipartisan support for libraries and the local funding that keeps them going. That research found:
- 92% of Ohioans say libraries are important to their community
- 87% say they get their money’s worth from library services
- 71% say libraries provide many of the basic services people rely on every day
- 69% can point to a time the library helped them personally
Nearly half of voters say they or someone in their household used a library recently
Put simply, people are not just aware of what libraries do. They use them, rely on them, and support them (https://www.libraryvisit.org/news/new-research-shows-ohioans-continue-to-value-local-library-services-and-support-local-funding-that-keeps-them-strong/)
Here in Mahoning County, the Public Library of Youngstown & Mahoning County sees that every day. From early literacy programs and homework help to job search support, internet access, and community programming, these are services people depend on.
“This matches what we hear and see every day,” said Aimee Fifarek, Director and CEO of The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County. “Libraries are not just a convenience for people in Mahoning County. They are an essential part of their lives providing essential programs and services for everyone across the County and the State.”
Public libraries across Ohio continue to provide:
- Early literacy, tutoring, and afterschool support
- Job search and workforce help
- Free access to computers, Wi-Fi, and technology assistance
- Everyday services like printing, notary work, and access to government resources
"We are encouraged by the results of yesterday's elections,” said Kim Garrett, Warren-Trumbull County Public Library Executive Director & Fiscal Officer. “Here in Trumbull County, we see that support in action every day. Across our library locations, we welcome hundreds of visitors daily, and they consistently share how much they value and appreciate their library. Whether it’s access to technology, educational resources, early literacy programs, or simply a welcoming space to connect, libraries remain a vital part of community life. We are grateful for the continued trust and support of voters and remain committed to serving our community with excellence, innovation, and care,” added Garrett.
The outcome of the May 5 election reinforces the strong connection between Ohio communities and their libraries, as well as the continued support for keeping those services local and accessible.
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The Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County (PLYMC) has served the Mahoning Valley since 1880 when the Youngstown Library Association was officially created. With 14 branches across Mahoning County, including Main Library in downtown Youngstown, PLYMC is well known for its signature services and programs like Summer Discovery and 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten. PLYMC serves our communities by preparing children for kindergarten, promoting early literacy, assisting job seekers, connecting Valley residents to technology, and providing resources for small businesses.