Library plans

Between now and Feb. 6, supporters of the Cape Girardeau Public Library will be busy.

They will be educating residents in the library district about the need for a $9 million expansion that would double the size of the existing facility on Clark Avenue.

And they will be asking voters to approve a 15-cent increase in the library's property tax.

The current levy is 16.65 cents for each $100 of assessed valuation.

The existing library was opened in 1980. In the intervening 25-plus years more and more programs have been added. In addition to checking out books, library patrons use computers, rent DVDs, get books on tape and use the library's meeting room.

An example of the demand for meeting space is the fact that the library's meeting room was used 469 times by 52 organizations in 2005, and at least once a week a request for the room has to be turned down.

The library addition would double the meeting space, as well as provide space for many of the library's other innovative programs, many of which did not exist in 1980.

In addition to educating voters about the library's expanding programs and its space crunch, supporters of the proposed tax increase will need to spread the message of the proposal's impact on property-tax bills.

A homeowner with a house valued at $100,000 would pay $28.50 more a year in property taxes. But all but 2 cents of the proposed increase would sunset after 20 years, giving taxpayers relief from nearly all of the increase after the expansion is paid for.

The proposed library tax increase is no flash in the pan. Library board members have been working on how best to meet space and equipment needs for several years. The proposal takes into account the findings of a consultant who looked at the programs the library offers and the expectations of its patrons.

When the Feb. 6 special election rolls around, voters should be well-informed about his plan.

If they are convinced of the need, they will support the tax increase.