Evanston Library Proposes 3.15% Tax Levy Increase
Homeowners should prepare for a potential tax hike as the library board prepares for a final vote in November.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Administration
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The Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees held a Truth in Taxation hearing regarding a proposed 3.15% property tax increase. The adjustments would raise the library operating budget to $9.7 million and increase debt service funding for the coming fiscal year.
Why it matters
Local library funding shifts directly impact household tax bills and the scope of public services available to Evanston residents. The board is seeking these budget increases to cover essential operating needs and debt service obligations for the library system.
The proposed 3.15% property tax hike includes raising the operating levy from $9.48 million to $9.7 million and increasing the debt service levy by 14.45% to $626,977. The library board is set to vote on these final figures at its November 18, 2026, meeting.
The players
Evanston Public Library Board of Trustees
The local governing body responsible for setting library budgets, managing tax levies, and overseeing the hiring of executive leadership.
Koya Partners
An executive search firm contracted to facilitate the recruitment of the library's next leadership team.
The details
The board utilizes Truth in Taxation hearings to transparently discuss budget adjustments, even though increases below 5% do not strictly mandate them under state law. Meanwhile, the search for a new executive director continues to address the vacancy that has persisted since February 2026. The board is currently using the search firm Koya Partners to compile feedback from staff and community surveys to inform the selection process.
Timeline
February 2026: Executive director position became vacant.
October 21, 2026: The library board held the Truth in Taxation hearing.
November 18, 2026: The board will vote on the final tax levy and present a search report.
December 2026 - January 2027: Tentative interviews for the director position are scheduled.
The Home Front
The board's voluntary hearing aligns with the Illinois Truth in Taxation Act, which mandates public participation for tax increases. This fiscal review is a critical check for residents as municipal agencies manage rising operational costs against local property tax caps.
Evanston homeowners should review their upcoming property tax statements to account for the potential 3.15% increase in the library-specific portion of the levy. Residents interested in the future of the library's management should monitor the November 18 meeting for updates on the director search.
The takeaway
Local tax levies determine the capacity of essential community resources like the library system. Residents should mark their calendars for the November 18, 2026, board meeting to participate in the final budget vote.
What happens next
The library board will conduct a formal vote to adopt the final tax levy during its meeting on November 18, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local government updates on the Administration page.
Live Poll
Do you believe your local tax increases are justified by the services provided in your community?
