April 7, 2026

Vote YES for
South Milwaukee
Library

Restore funding. Expand hours. Invest in our community.

Check Your Registration How to Help

The Situation

Imagine More

Since 2019, the South Milwaukee Public Library's budget has been cut by nearly 20%. It now operates just 44 hours per week — the fewest of any library in Milwaukee County. A YES vote changes that.

With restored funding, the library could offer:

  • More children's programming and summer reading initiatives
  • Expanded teen programs like Creative Chaos and NERF nights
  • Additional fitness classes, craft sessions, and community events
  • More staff to serve you better
  • 54 hours per week — open when you need it
  • New programs we haven't even been able to dream up yet

Already Happening

At Your Library

🧗

Fitness Classes

Weekly Barre, Tai Chi, and Yoga — free for everyone.

🎬

Friday Movies

Classic films and new favorites with free popcorn.

🎨

Craft Sessions

Book-themed crafts and creative workshops.

🎯

Teen NERF Wars

After-hours foam dart battles. Yes, in the library.

🎵

Community Events

Cultural celebrations, live musicians, and more.

📱

Tech Workshops

Digital skills, online safety, and device help.

This is just a sample. Visit smlibrary.org for the full calendar.

The Numbers

A Small Investment, A Big Return

$5
per month
for a $225K home
$4.26
returned for every
$1 invested
20K+
residents
served
23%
more hours
with restored funding
"A library is not a luxury but one of the necessities of life."
— Henry Ward Beecher

From toddlers discovering their first picture book to seniors learning new technology, from job seekers finding support to teenagers finding community — the library is where South Milwaukee comes together.

Get Involved

How to Help

Vote YES on April 7

The single most important thing you can do. Check your registration and find your polling place.

Check Registration →

Spread the Word

Talk to your neighbors and family. Share this page. Every conversation counts.

Yard signs & buttons available!

Join Us for Canvassing

February 28 at noon — meet at the library. No experience needed, just enthusiasm and comfortable shoes.

See All Events →

Important Dates

Mark Your Calendar

February 28 — Canvassing Day

12:00 PM — Meet at the Library

March 15 – April 5 — Trivia Tournament

Sundays 2–5 PM at Moran's Pub

March 24 — Early Voting Begins

Through April 3. Absentee ballot deadline: April 2.

April 7 — Referendum Vote

Polls open 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Have Questions?

Questions & Answers

What does a YES vote actually do?
A YES vote approves a $425,000 property tax levy increase to restore the library's funding to pre-pandemic levels. This means expanded hours (from 44 to 54 per week), additional staff, and more programming for all ages. See the city's official page →
How much will this cost me?
About $60 per year — or $5 per month — for a home assessed at $225,000. That's $27 annually per $100,000 of assessed value. Less than a single streaming subscription.
I don't use the library much. Why should I vote yes?
Libraries increase property values, support workforce development, provide free resources to residents of all ages, and strengthen the social fabric of the community. A well-funded library benefits everyone — even those who don't walk through the doors.
Who is behind this campaign?
A group of South Milwaukee residents — not affiliated with the library or city government. Donations go through the Friends of the South Milwaukee Library, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Where do I vote?
Visit myvote.wi.gov to find your polling place and check your registration. Wisconsin allows same-day registration with proof of residence.