In August, the Anythink Board of Trustees voted to refer a ballot measure for additional funding for Anythink Libraries. On Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019, Ballot Issue 6A lost by approximately 3,700 votes.

The library issued the following statement from Anythink Director Pam Sandlian Smith:

“We are overwhelmed by the incredible support we’ve received from our community. Thank you to the thousands of individuals who voted in support of our libraries. Unfortunately, Ballot Issue 6A did not pass. Despite this, the need remains. Anythink is still one of the least-funded library systems of its size in the metro area. We will still struggle with limited hours, wait times, space restrictions and the strains of our growing community. As your public library, it is our responsibility to tackle these challenges while finding ways to continue providing exceptional service, something that will be more difficult as our community continues to grow. Over the next few months, we will take time to intentionally reflect on the community’s feedback while evaluating next steps.”

Library leadership will work together with its Board of Trustees, Anythink Foundation Board, community stakeholders and partners to better understand the needs of the community and the capacity for the library to meet those needs moving forward.