2025 Levy Information
Letter from the Director
Since I joined the Delaware County District Library in September 2022, I’ve learned much about this amazing system and the people it serves. First, Delaware County is the true embodiment of a community. They are a connected group of businesses, non-profits, charities, governments, and more who know what it means to serve your neighbor and work together for the benefit of others.
Second, I’ve learned that the Delaware County District Library staff have heart. They give their all into whatever they do. Whether it’s preparing a storytime for our youngest learners, or teaching a retiree in the Maker Studio how to use a 3D printer, the staff strive for the best and are excited to deliver it.
Finally, I know our patrons deserve the best library system we can provide. In our 2025 levy document, you’ll see my plans for the future of the Delaware County District Library system and the road map that a new levy will take to get us there. I’m excited for you to join us on this journey and look forward to your support.
Sincerely,
Key Facts and FAQs
Promise #1: Convenient Access
Strategic Plan Priority #1: DCDL is accessible and convenient. We are committed to meeting our community where they are, and finding ways to deliver the materials and services our patrons want, when they need them.
- Expanded Operating Hours. Patrons desire more hours, uniformly across the DCDL system, expanded every day of the week, including the addition of Sundays.
- After-Hours Access. Sometimes traditional hours just don’t work for every person. After-hours lockers or book pick-up vending machines are a great alternative to still get what you need when you need it.
- Expanded Maker Studio Services. The Maker Studio has grown in popularity since its introduction in 2019. The community needs access to it beyond its current hours and with broader services.
- Expanded Outreach Services. The Outreach Services Department has more than two dozen Bookmobile stops. The pre-K and aging communities can be reached with more stops and specialty services provided.
Promise #2: Increased Services
Strategic Plan Priority #2: DCDL is a dependable steward of the public trust. We anticipate and are responsive to the evolving needs and expectations of current and future Delaware County residents.
- More Popular Print & Digital Materials. When there are more of the items you want on the shelves or online, wait times are shorter and you get the materials you want faster.
- Notary & Passport Services. The top two requests DCDL patrons made during the strategic planning process were for notary and passport services.
- More Online Resources. Databases are more than research. Subscriptions include family genealogy and veteran records, virtual homework help, automobile repair manuals and more.
- Increased Programming. Storytimes are one of the primary building blocks for early literacy. They need to be at convenient locations during times that work for each family.
Promise #3: Facility Upgrades
Strategic Plan Priority #3: DCDL connects our community. Not only is the library a great place to learn, it’s a great place to connect with other people! We want every community member to know that they belong at DCDL.
- Renovations. Delaware, Ostrander and Powell branches continue to need upgrades. Each branch was either built or had its last large renovation project between 1991 and 1993.
- More Study Spaces & Increased Access. Study spaces and large community rooms are in high demand at every single DCDL location. Not only do our patrons require more room, but they need hours that work with their schedule.
- Upgraded A/V & Streaming. Patrons have the desire to watch library meetings and attend library programs, even when they can’t leave their home. Streaming services should be entertained at all branches.
- Enhanced Outdoor Spaces. Our libraries have some wonderful outdoor spaces and outdoor partnerships with our hosting municipalities. We will explore how to continue optimizing our use of green space to maximize program attendance and capacity.
Nearby Library Levies by the Numbers
The Value of a Library Card
Every year, Ohioans save thousands of dollars by using their local public libraries. Delaware County District Library also communicates the value of your library card every time you check out.
Take a look at the bottom of your receipt and you’ll find a running tally of how much you’ve saved so far this year by using your library card!
In a 2021 report conducted for the Ohio Library Council by Howard Fleeter & Associates, a public library return on investment (ROI) was computed by assessing the statewide value of library materials and services to library patrons, then comparing the value with statewide library operating expenditures.
FAQs
When will the library be on the ballot?
This issue will be on the May 6, 2025 ballot.
How will this levy be worded on my ballot?
The ballot language will read as follows:
An additional tax for the benefit of the Delaware County District Library for the purpose of current expenses that the County Auditor estimates will collect $10,459,000 annually, at a rate not exceeding 1.00 mill for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $35 for each $100,000 of the County Auditor’s appraised value, for 15 years, commencing in 2025, first due in calendar year 2026.
When is the last day to register to vote?
The voter registration deadline for the May 6, 2025, primary election is Monday, April 7, 2025. You can register to vote at the Delaware County District Library or at the Delaware County Board of Elections. You can also check your registration here.
Where can I go for more information?
You can start with our 2025 Levy Plan! If you have additional questions, Director Bryan Howard would be glad to hear from you. You can contact him by email at director@delawarelibrary.org or by phone at 740-362-3861.
Mission Statement
We open doors to imagination, knowledge, connection, and discovery.