2026 Preliminary Budget
The annual budget keeps our libraries running and thriving, supporting the services our neighbors and community members rely upon every day.
It is through critical community funding that the library maintains its great work: creating open and welcoming spaces, maintaining expansive collections of books, materials and resources, designing engaging programs for people of all ages, and providing modern technological resources for the general public.
These funds also ensure our experienced staff are informed and ready to support the growing needs of our community.
"The King County Library System has always been guided by strong financial stewardship, transparency, and innovation. These values shape our 2026 Budget Book and every decision we make."
- Heidi Daniel, KCLS Executive Director
Proposed Budget Overview
The library's projected budgeted expenses for 2026 are $166.2 million, a 1% increase from last year, in line with inflation. Key cost drivers this year include growing demand for digital materials, inflation, and higher insurance costs. Our largest changes from 2025 reflect staffing adjustments tied to our new staffing model and the cost of ongoing capital projects.
With planned expenses outpacing our projected revenues, the library anticipates using $11.2 million from our reserves to balance the 2026 budget.
Revenue Overview
KCLS revenue is stable with no major changes expected in 2026, at a total projected revenue of $155 million. Variations in federal funding has had little effect on the budget, and investment income continues to perform well.
96% of revenue, $145.6 million, is community funded through property taxes. Property tax remains steady and is limited to a 1% annual increase.
"We remain committed to meeting the needs of King County residents and doing so responsibly. Our mission is unchanged—and we need renewed community investment to carry it forward."
- Heidi Daniel, KCLS Executive Director
Strategic Priorities
In 2025, the KCLS leadership team developed four strategic priorities. These priorities serve as a North Star for the organization’s work for 2025-2026.
Elevate customer experiences for our service area communities, centering those most negatively impacted by inequity to amplify the value of the Library.
Reimagine physical and virtual library spaces with an emphasis on accessibility and empowering multilingual communities.
Unify internal processes for managing change, data, internal communication and policies, using an Equity Impact Tool to inform decision making.
Enhance staff experience and engagement at KCLS, fostering communities of belonging and well-being by expanding our trauma-informed approach.
Key Dates
Learn more about the library budget in upcoming public budget hearings in November. The Board of Trustees meets on December 17 to vote for budget approval, with the approved budget going into effect in January 2026.
Budget Reports