West Baton Rouge libraries' future uncertain after tax fails
Apr 02, 2025
PORT ALLEN, La. (Louisiana First)—Some residents and library owners in West Baton Rouge are concerned that the future of both libraries could be in jeopardy.
West Baton Rouge Parish voters shoot down tax renewals for drainage, library funding
Tamie Martin, Executive Director of West B
aton Rouge Parish Libraries, said she's in shock after results from the March 29 elections revealed that the library's tax renewal proposal was voted against.
"I wasn't expected at all. I didn't hear any questions or concerns from the community leading up to the election," she said.
If they had voted 'yes, the library would have received up to another ten years of funding. The tax is their only source of funding. She said she believed the item was caught in the heat of other items on the ballot. "Just really felt like the things at the beginning of the ballot that were statewide influenced a lot of people's votes," she said.
https://www.louisianafirstnews.com/news/political-news/louisiana-voters-to-decide-on-specialty-courts-prosecution-of-juveniles-and-court-vacancies/
With only two libraries in Port Allen and near Brusly, potential closure would impact thousands of people. Martin says there's heavy foot traffic in and out daily. "Last year, we did over 65,000 transactions, meaning that we checked out items to own at least 65,000 occasions," she said.
Martin says the library plays a critical role across the parish: schools use them, those without internet access come there, companies use their conference rooms, and more. "We offer programs for children that include story time and game nights. We offer programs for adults, everything from Zumba to book club," said Martin.
Martin is hopeful that another election to renew the tax will be successful.
"Legally, we are allowed to ask the voters three times. I really think that a second chance to get on the ballot is going to prove successful for us," said Martin.
If no funding comes in or if they can't reintroduce the item, both libraries will shut down after January of next year. ...read more read less
