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Scappoose Public Library

About Measure 5-308

Scappoose Public Library District voters have the opportunity to vote on Measure 5-308, a five-year levy to maintain the library’s current level of operations. Election day is May 19, 2026.

A photograph of the library exterior, with a modified logo that reads "Scappoose Public Library" superimposed in the corner.

If passed, the Measure would authorize a new property tax that would cost property owners $0.10 per $1000 of assessed property value each year for five years. The owner of a home assessed at $350,000 would pay about $2.92 per month or $35 per year. The levy would run from July 2026 through June 2031 and would raise a total of $800,000.

The Library District is an independent library district serving a population of over 12,000 which includes Scappoose and areas outside the city limits. It maintains its own budget and receives no operational funds from the City of Scappoose or Columbia County. Since 1997, the Library has had a permanent tax rate of $0.2536 per $1,000 of assessed property value which funds operations and activities.

Why Now?

An Oregon law - Measure 50 - froze the Library’s permanent tax rate back in 1997. Because it cannot increase its permanent tax rate, the Library District is pursuing this temporary five-year levy to maintain the Library’s current level of operations.

A photograph of a child reading a book in the library.

If the Levy is Passed:

This five-year levy would help maintain the Library’s current level of services including but not limited to:

  • Access to books, materials, and electronic formats for everyone in the community
  • An expanded collection of electronic books and audiobooks
  • Children’s reading events and after-school activities
  • Two children’s storytimes per week
  • Over 25 programs per month for families and adults
  • Retention of library staff
  • 51 open hours per week
  • Public computers and low-cost printing
  • 24/7 Wi-Fi
  • A low-cost public meeting room

If the Levy Does Not Pass:

If this levy does not pass, library services would not be provided as proposed. Property taxes will not be increased.

A photograph of a child and an adult working together on a puzzle.

Need More Info?

FAQ Sheet Click Here

Voter Registration Info Click Here

Information Sessions

  • April 27, 2026 / 7:00–8:00 p.m.
  • April 29, 2026 / 7:00–8:00 p.m.
  • May 2, 2026 / 2:00–3:00 p.m.

This information was reviewed by the Oregon Elections Division for compliance with ORS 260.432.