Wake County Public Libraries’ mission is to instill the love of reading and to foster the pursuit of knowledge for the residents of Wake County. Our libraries serve Wake County residents of every age, income level, location, ethnicity and physical ability by providing a wide range of reading materials, books in multiple formats, programs, online resources and free Wi-Fi, as well as personalized help when you need it seven days a week!
To further that mission, Wake County is putting a bond referendum on the Nov. 5 ballot. It asks voters to decide on a $142 million bond for new libraries, as well as renovations and expansions for existing libraries, when they head to the polls on Nov. 5.
Currently, almost all Wake County residents live within 20 minutes of a Wake County Public Libraries facility. Nearly 99% have a 15-minute travel time, and 84.7% are within 10 minutes of a branch. Projects funded by the proposed bond would bring the percentage of Wake County residents in that 10-minute category up to 87%.
Potential Projects
New Libraries (total $67.1 million)
Goal: Increase the number of Wake County residents who have a public library within a 10-minute drive of their home.
Potential Projects:
- A new community library in Rolesville: Rolesville is the only municipality in Wake County that doesn’t currently have a library, and it is one of the fastest-growing communities. The design would include a Peace and Justice Memorial.
- A new community library in the Friendship area of Apex: This library would help meet the needs of the area’s growing population.
- Replacement of the Athens Drive Community Library: When the Wake County Public School System renovates Athens Drive High School in 2026, a new library will need to be built to serve this area.
- Replacement of the Wendell Community Library: The smallest library in the system is no longer adequate to serve the rapidly growing Wendell population.
- A new facility, TBD. The Board of Commissioners will continue to consider options to address needs throughout Wake County, including addressing digital equity concerns and providing more library services to underserved populations.
Library Expansion (total $12.3 million)
Goal: Meet the demands of population growth on library service.
Potential Project:
Expansion of the Fuquay-Varina Community Library: In fiscal year 2024, this library has seen the highest circulation of all community libraries — and even more than several regional libraries. This will expand the facility from a community library to a regional library.
Existing Library Renovations (total $43.3 million)
Goal: Address aging facilities, building system upgrades (such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning and roof replacement), furniture and other enhancements.
Potential Projects:
Learn More
If you’re interested in having a county official or staff member discuss the Wake County Public Libraries bond at your next meeting, event or gathering, just email [email protected].
You can also email us with any questions.
FAQ
What is a bond referendum?
A bond referendum gives voters the opportunity to decide whether Wake County may use general obligation bonds to finance these projects. A general obligation bond is backed by the full faith, credit and taxing power of the County and is considered public debt. General obligation bonds carry lower interest rates than other bonds or financing methods.
What is the total tax rate impact for the bond?
If voters approve this bond, the estimated amount of property tax liability increase for each $100,000 of property tax value would be $2.50 per year. For example, a home valued at $462,000 would see an annual tax increase of $11.50.
Why is the County placing a bond referendum on the ballot now?
The bond referendum aims to address the growing need for top-notch library services across Wake County. This initiative is a critical component of Wake County’s Strategic Plan, specifically supporting the goal to ensure high-quality education-based facilities, including libraries, by 2029.
Wake County last held a bond referendum for libraries in October 2007 to fund $45 million in renovations, replacements and expansions. This referendum passed with 70% voter approval.
What happens if the bond doesn’t pass in November?
Projects will not move forward unless an alternative funding plan is identified.
If approved, when would work start?
If approved by voters, the $142 million bond will fund various library capital projects beginning in fiscal year 2026.
I’m not sure if I’m registered to vote. How can I find out?
Visit vt.ncsbe.gov/RegLkup/ to search for voter details, including jurisdictions, polling place, sample ballot (when available), absentee ballot information and voter history. You can also call the Board of Elections at 919-404-4040.
How can I find out my polling place?
Visit vt.ncsbe.gov/RegLkup/ to search for voter details, including jurisdictions, polling place, sample ballot (when available), absentee ballot information and voter history. You can also call the Board of Elections at 919-404-4040.
How can I learn more?
Email us at [email protected].