At Plymouth District Library, we believe in being good stewards of public resources—and in making it easy for our community to understand how those resources support the services you count on.
Here’s a quick overview of where our funding comes from, how it’s used, and how we plan ahead to keep your library strong and welcoming for years to come.
Where the Money Comes From
The majority of our funding—about 95%—comes from local property taxes. This local investment ensures that the library remains a free and open space for learning, connection, and discovery for all residents.
These taxes are a part of three operating millages that voters approved in the 1980s and 1990s to support library services in perpetuity. While those approvals provide lasting support of library services, a Michigan law known as the Headlee Amendment gradually reduces millage rates when property values increase faster than inflation. As a result, the library receives a little less each year—even though the community’s needs continue to grow.
Still, we’ve been able to maintain a balanced budget, offer strong services, and avoid asking for any new tax increases for over 30 years.
In addition to property taxes, we also receive support from:
- State aid and stabilization funds
- Generous contributions from Friends of the Library, local grants from private philanthropy, and individual donations from community members
- Interest on library investments
- Fines and fees (around 0.25%)
We know that every tax dollar matters, and we’re committed to using your investment wisely and transparently.
How We Use Your Support
Our budget supports the day-to-day services you’ve come to rely on: a helpful staff, up-to-date materials and resources, and a safe, well-maintained facility. You can view our monthly financial reports and review past audits in our Board Document Archive.
We also make room in the budget for long-term improvements that reflect what our community wants and needs. Right now, that means interior upgrades designed to create more welcoming, flexible spaces for all.
A More Usable, Comfortable Library Coming Soon
With thoughtful planning and strong financial management, we’ve been able to begin a multi-phase interior improvement project this year. Here’s what’s happening:
PHASE ONE – UPPER LEVEL (June–August)
- More study rooms
- Better access to technology (relocated from “The Lab”)
- A new Silent Reading Room and expanded quiet study areas
- Fresh paint and carpeting
PHASE TWO – MAIN LEVEL (September)
- New carpet and paint
- Improved seating areas within the collection
- Clearer visibility of staff for easier support
PHASE THREE – LOWER LEVEL (September–January)
- Fresh paint and carpeting
- A new integrated play space and a larger fish tank
- Additional quiet study areas
Please Note: The library will be fully closed September 2–14 for construction activities that affect all floors.
We appreciate your patience during these upgrades and are excited to welcome you into a refreshed, more functional space as each phase is completed.
Looking Ahead
Thanks to thoughtful financial planning and years of responsible budgeting, we’re able to move forward with these improvements without asking for additional funding from residents. Our reserve fund and investment earnings are being used to support this project, while everyday library services continue as usual. These updates are part of a long-term vision to ensure your library stays welcoming, responsive, and ready for whatever the future brings.
Your ongoing support—whether through taxes, visits, donations, or kind words—makes everything we do possible. We are proud to serve this community, and we’re always happy to answer questions about how we manage public resources.
Let us know what you think or stop by to learn more. This library belongs to you.