Library levy passes

PORT CLINTON — By nearly a 2-to-1 margin, voters sided with a levy to support the Ida Rupp Public Library. Those supporting the measure equated to roughly 63% of the total vote, according to unofficial results. Supporters fended off an opposition group, which launched a campaign against this levy. Now that it's approved, new tax money will benefit the Port Clinton branch to pursue some much-needed renovations while maintaining its operations, its management team said. This 0.8-mill levy will generate $1.25 million a year for the library's current expenses. This is an increase from the library's previous levy funding of $1.06 million. The passing of this new levy means a $100,000 home owner will pay $28 a year rather than the previous $23. With the levy's support, the library will continue to provide the services the community come to use. This includes digital services, audiobooks, movies, TV shows and newspapers. The library will also continue to provide special programs such as ones that involve inviting guest speaker to come in. The opposition group opposed certain programming at the library, including LGBTQ content. They additionally argued to move certain books they deemed inappropriate to an adult-only section of the library. The levy's funding will also be used to support the library's renovation. According to the library's website, a few changes it plans to make are its furniture, technology, bathrooms and lighting. Supporters of the library and its levy argue Ida Rupp should be a safe place for members of all communities. "Libraries are a hallmark of First Amendment rights and the essence of freedom of speech," Rhonda Watt, a supporter of the library, said. "Libraries are supposed to be safe places to seek information and knowledge." Ida Rupp Public Library replacement levy • For: 5,231 (63%) • Against: 3,025 (37%) Note: According to unofficial results Source: Erie County Board of Elections