91´«Ã½

Ballot measures are a type of state or local legislation that is approved or disapproved directly by voters. Ballot measures are sometimes known as referenda, initiatives, or propositions.

Like other types of legislation, ballot measures can have significant impacts on libraries. In some cases, a ballot measure may be required to approve certain library policies, such as issuing bonds, setting tax rates, or creating a library district.

In Your State

Procedures for ballot measures vary by state. Your 91´«Ã½ state chapter or may be able to refer you to information about ballot measures in your state.

Advocacy on Ballot Measures

Library organizations, such as 91´«Ã½ state chapters and Friends of the Library organizations, can advocate for or against ballot measures. While 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations are prohibited from electioneering in candidate elections, advocacy on ballot measures is not electioneering. However, check your state laws, as state campaign finance disclosure requirements may apply to certain activities.

For libraries that are units of local or state government, state laws may limit how public resources (such as library funds, facilities, or staff time) can be used in relation to ballot measures. For instance, in some states it may be permissible to use public resources only to provide objective information about the effect of a ballot measure, not to advocate for or against the measure. In that case, library workers who wish to advocate on a ballot measure must do so on their personal time and without using library resources. Again, check your state laws.

For more information

• Nonprofit Vote:
• Bolder Advocacy:

Voting on Ballot Measures

Library supporters can advocate for libraries by being informed about measures on their ballot, registering to vote, and participating as a voter. For more information, see 91´«Ã½’s Reader. Voter. Ready. campaign.

Tip: Depending where you live, ballot measure elections might not take place in November (when elections for Congress and President are held). Instead, ballot measure elections might occur at other times of year. Always keep your voter registration up-to-date, stay informed about local elections, and participate in every election.

Resources

• From Awareness to Funding: Voter Perceptions and Support of Public Libraries in 2018
• Library Campaign Training Institute webinar recordings (2016)
  • Part 1:
  • Part 2:
  • Part 3:
  • Part 4:
• 91´«Ã½ Advocacy & Issues

Contact

Contact 91´«Ã½'s Public Policy & Advocacy Office: advocacy@ala.org