Answers: Library levy

' This fall, Cedar Rapids voters will be asked whether or not to approve a public library levy, which for years had been set at 4 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, of 27 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. Will you vote for the levy? Why or why not

FROM OUR INBOX

The public library, in Cedar Rapids and throughout the United States, levels the playing field so every person can have access to critical, timely information, apply for jobs, connect with loved ones and much more. I will vote yes!

Joe L.

Cedar Rapids

YES! There are several reasons why continued support of our library is important to our community. My two year old son visits the library once or twice a week with his day care group and the service the library provides to our communities children is invaluable. In his time spent at the library he not only learns about the world around him, but he is able to interact with kids and adults from around the community which is extremely important to our family. He looks forward to his trips to the library each week, and comes home telling us all about everything he learned. Having a library in our city that continues to grow and stay ahead of the curb keeps our city moving forward. If we stop now and rest on our laurels we will be left behind. It's concerning to me that a small number of people in this community who are only looking out for themselves could potentially be holding our community back. A strong library in the community helps to better strengthen our education system, I'll gladly pay a little bit more to make our library just a little bit better.

Mitchel G.

Cedar Rapids

I will vote yes because the library is an important resource for our community.

Abbie C.

Cedar Rapids

No! This unnecessary behemoth has morphed into a gluttonous money-devouring monster! Where will it end?

It's time to take a stand and say 'enough already” and tighten up the purse strings!

Lan N.

Cedar Rapids

I would vote yes for the library levy because the library needs to stay current with its collection, programming and resources to help all citizens. Education is important in our society. Let's continue to support our children, families and businesses by giving them access to a vibrant library.

Jean J.

Hiawatha

If we built fancy new libraries that were not deemed sustainable within the current funding stream then I would have to vote no! While libraries are certainly an important community asset, we need to start by being fiscally responsible instead of employing the if we build it the people will eventually pay when it fails mentality that is seen way too often within government run organizations. Let's not forget about our hotel and ballpark ventures that we as tax payers will continue to subsidize.

Frank S.

Cedar Rapids

I will happily vote yes in favor of a tax levy to support the local library. Since it opened, my family and I have used the Cedar Rapids Public Library as a resource to answer research questions, for assistance with science fair projects, and discover the joy of learning. My family loves the library and wants to see it succeed for years to come. A tax levy is a step in the right direction to secure the library's financial future.

Janet S.

Cedar Rapids

FROM FACEBOOK

' Darcy D.: I do enjoy the library and believe it is a gorgeous space, however, I can't say it was worth the cost if we need to raise our taxes even further to pay for it. I will vote no.

' Christopher O.: Perhaps the library should focus more on using its event spaces and meeting spaces and charging for them? I believe the roof is available for private parties and events. It's a great space yes. Did it need to be so fancy and expensive? No.

' Matt R.: Meanwhile they are spending millions more across the street at Greene Square Park. Why don't you just put those millions of dollars into the library?

' Kerry S.: No I will not support it. The city should have planned better. I pay enough.

' Denny F.: I never thought I would live long enough to say this, but we have enough taxes already.

' Cindy F.: Too much. I would help a little, but this increase in way too much to ask.

' Cindy L.: No way! Renters also use the library. I have never stepped one foot inside of it. Why should I have to pay for it?

' Josh R.: Cedar Rapids property tax already is stupid high. Use the speed cam money.

' Chuck W.: They should show the amount they need to justify the requested amount and not just request the maximum amount they can by law. I am a library supporter but will vote against this if they do not.

' Ben M. No, they built this library knowing what it would cost. Just like every other business they need to make difficult decisions to operate.

' Dawn K.: Undecided.