Glen Lake Community Library pursues millage renewal
From staff reports
In the upcoming Aug. 4 election, voters in Empire, Glen Arbor and Kasson Townships will consider a funding proposal to support the ongoing operations of the Glen Lake Community Library. The Library is seeking a renewal of the current millage of 0.2861 mills, to be assessed for six years beginning in December of this year. Income from the millage comprises almost 90% of the library’s operating income, and a renewal would generate approximately $380,000 in the first year. Property taxes, collected via a dedicated millage, are a common funding mechanism for public libraries. In Michigan alone, over 390 libraries benefit from such local funding, with a state-wide average assessment of 0.9287 mills.
The Glen Lake Library has been supported by a dedicated millage since 1996, when area voters first approved a proposal to fund significant facility improvements and expanded services. Since then, an operating millage has been reapproved twice, in 2016 and 2021. The 2021 proposal, which passed by a 4 to 1 margin, set the millage rate at 0.30 mills. However, the millage rate has been gradually reduced to the current rate of 0.2861 mills as local property values have increased. This rate reduction is mandated by the Headlee Amendment, passed by the Michigan legislature in 1978. The Glen Lake Library Board of Trustees determined that a renewal of the current millage would be adequate to cover projected operating costs. Careful management of expenses has made this possible, even as usage of the library has increased.
The growth of the library has been dramatic since the opening of an entirely new building in September of 2020. The expansive facility, construction of which was funded entirely through grants and private donations, offers a diverse range of materials and services. While traditional collections of books and media are still a mainstay, electronic books and streaming movies are also now available. Children’s programs are offered throughout the year, along with a full schedule of lectures, classes, concerts, author visits and more. With dedicated study, work and meeting spaces, the library has become an increasingly popular destination. Last year, more than 20,000 people visited the library, checking out over 40,000 items.
Beyond the numbers, however, the variety of activities that take place at the library illustrate its value. Kids and parents, and often grandparents, make themselves at home in the Young Learner’s area, enjoying books, puzzles, learning kits, and animal puppets. The Lakeshore Readers have a spirited discussion of a recent bestseller. A retiree relaxes in the Reading Lounge, perusing newspapers and magazines, and warming by the fireplace (seasonally, of course). The Empire Area Community Center holds a monthly meeting, fine-tuning their various service programs. A local author presents a fascinating new history of North Manitou Island. A Social Security recipient prints out a benefits statement on our public computers. A patient advocate faxes records to a health care provider. A young naturalist checks out a Birding Backpack, complete with binoculars and field guides. And, in June, poets gather to serenade Asparagus.
Next year, the library will celebrate its 50th anniversary. Established in 1977, the library has grown and evolved along with the Glen Lake area, benefiting from strong local support, while developing into a valuable and inviting community resource. The August 4 millage renewal proposal presents an opportunity to reaffirm this bond. The Citizens for Glen Lake Library Operating Millage, led by committee chair Kathy Drabik of Maple City, are leading the drive in support of the proposal. This group of area residents has coordinated a low-key campaign, adopting the slogan “Libraries are for Everyone”. The Citizens are asking area voters to consider the value of the library when they go to the polls on August 4.
For more information about the library, including the millage renewal proposal, visit GlenLakeLibrary.net, call 231-326-5361, or email info@glenlakelibrary.net. Or, even better, visit the library to explore all it has to offer.
