Forecasting Closures Across Iowa Public Libraries and Museums: Assessing the Impact of HF718 and the End of .27 Cent Local Levies.

The EveryLibrary Institute is releasing an Issue Brief titled "Forecasting Closures Across Iowa: Assessing the Impact of HF718 and the End of .27 Cent Local Levies." This important research investigates the projected effects of Iowa's 2023 property tax reform law, House File 718, on nearly 100 public libraries and museums across the state.

Authored by Cindy Wells, Chair of the Waterloo Public Library Board of Trustees, and Billie K. Bailey, retired Executive Director of the Grout Museum District, this report combines rigorous research with deep local insight. It addresses the critical issue of how communities will cope with the loss of funding for their cultural and educational institutions.

A Snapshot of the Looming Crisis

Previously, Iowa law permitted voters to authorize special levies of up to 27 cents per $1,000 of property valuation specifically dedicated to supporting public libraries and cultural as well as scientific facilities. These levies were essential for funding in over 90 communities across the state. However, HF 718 has eliminated this local authority, merging voter-approved levies into a general fund cap. For many institutions, especially in rural areas, these levies accounted for a quarter or more of their total budgets.

Wells and Bailey conducted phone and email interviews to gather current-year budget data, financial forecasts, and service-level impacts. The findings are alarming: libraries are cutting hours, reducing staff, canceling programs, and postponing maintenance. Museums are experiencing funding losses of up to 90% of their annual budgets, with some already planning for potential shutdowns by 2029.

In Iowa and Beyond

While the 27-cent levy is specific to Iowa, the underlying trend reflects a national issue. Legislatures in several states are attempting to consolidate or restrict local taxing authority, often targeting services like libraries, museums, parks, and public media—institutions that are fundamental to civic life and lifelong learning.

The EveryLibrary Institute believes this report serves as an urgent warning and a practical call to action. As the authors state, “Failure to act decisively risks not only the decline of library services but also the broader erosion of community resources that support education, literacy, and civic engagement.”

The full Issue Brief, which includes impact profiles of numerous Iowa libraries and museums, legislative context, and strategic recommendations, is now available for download:

We encourage Iowa stakeholders—and anyone concerned about the future of public libraries and cultural institutions across America—to read and share this report. Your engagement is vital to ensuring these community anchors are not lost due to fiscal mismanagement or legislative neglect.

Download a PDF of the Issue Brief: "Forecasting Closures Across Iowa Public Libraries and Museums: Assessing the Impact of HF718 and the End of .27 Cent Local Levies".