Issue Brief: SJR 2-F and the Future of Florida's Public Libraries

The Florida Legislature convenes in special session beginning the week of June 2, 2026 to consider SJR 2-F, a proposed constitutional amendment that would dramatically expand Florida's homestead exemption and establish a pathway toward the eventual elimination of property taxes on homestead properties.

For Florida's public libraries, the stakes are significant. While much of the public discussion has focused on homeowner tax relief, the proposal raises broader questions about local self-government, community priorities, and the future of public services funded through local revenues.

Public libraries are funded primarily through local revenues and serve more than 23 million Floridians through 541 library locations, 22 bookmobiles, millions of annual visits, workforce development programs, digital access services, literacy initiatives, and educational programming. They also contribute hundreds of millions of dollars annually to Florida's economy and support thousands of jobs.

Our new issue brief examines SJR 2-F through the lens of civic infrastructure, economic development, and local governance. It explores how changes to local property tax revenues could affect public libraries, county law libraries, library districts, state and federal grant opportunities, philanthropic fundraising efforts, and the long-term ability of communities to invest in the institutions they value.

The brief also examines an often-overlooked question: whether reducing local fiscal capacity could make it more difficult for libraries to leverage outside investments such as state construction grants, federal E-Rate funding, private philanthropy, and community fundraising.

At approximately $33 per resident annually, Florida's public libraries are among the most cost-effective public institutions in the state. Before policymakers and voters consider permanent constitutional changes to local government finance, it is important to understand what is at stake for the libraries and civic infrastructure that serve communities across Florida.

Download the Issue Brief "SJR 2-F and the Future of Florida's Public Libraries" (opens PDF) today and learn more about how SJR 2-F could affect Florida's public libraries, local governments, and communities.