Library Millage Renewal Q&A

Is this a new tax?

NO. This is a continuation of the current millage for 10 more years.

What is a millage?

A millage is the tax rate used to calculate property taxes. It represents the amount per $1,000 of a property's assessed value that is charged to fund services such as schools, libraries, or public safety.

Who pays the millage?

Property owners throughout St. John the Baptist Parish.

Is this millage proposition an increase?

NO. Property owners currently pay 9.94 mills for library services and will continue to pay 9.94 mills if the millage is approved. The library is asking for the same 9.94 mills that have been in place since 1997.

How long has the Library been funded by a property millage?

St. John the Baptist Parish Library has been funded by property millage since October 1966, when voters approved a tax for the maintenance and operation of the library as a parish institution. 

Does the Homestead Exemption apply?

YES. The first $75,000 of home value is tax-exempt. The Library property millage on a $150,000 home is about $74.55 per year. That is less than the average cost of three hardback books or one dinner for a family of four at a casual restaurant.

Are any other taxes used to support the Library?

NO. This is the only millage dedicated to St. John the Baptist Parish Library. It funds 96% of the Library’s budget.

What does the millage fund do?

The millage funds the operation, construction, and maintenance of all four St. John the Baptist Parish Library facilities - our LaPlace, Reserve, Garyville, and Edgard branches. The millage keeps them all open and operating. 

What will happen if the millage does not pass?

If the millage is not renewed, the Library will not receive funding from the 2027 tax rolls. The LaPlace and Edgard branches would not be rebuilt, and daily operations would only be sustained for a short time. Once remaining funds are depleted,  St. John the Baptist Parish residents would lose access to all library services. 

Do St. John Parish government funds help the Library system?

NO. The Library relies on its dedicated millage to meet budget needs.

How does St. John the Baptist Parish benefit from the Library millage?

Public libraries are inclusive, accessible community hubs where people from any walk of life can learn and connect with one another. St. John the Baptist Parish Library exemplifies this role by providing access to information, tools for workforce preparation, literacy support, and outreach to underserved groups. Here is an overview of what the millage supports:

  • Educational resources, including state-specific test prep materials for K-12, college, and certification exams
  • A MakerSpace with state-of-the-art technology, including sublimation machines, 3D printers, robotics, and a laser engraver
  • A dedicated space and equipment for telehealth appointments
  • Podcast room for audio recording
  • Meeting & study rooms
  • Teaching demonstration kitchen
  • Live, virtual K-12 tutoring
  • Resume & career assistance
  • Excel Adult High School diploma program
  • Volunteer opportunities for teens and adults
  • Computer & Wi-Fi access
  • Copy/Print/Fax services, including wireless printing
  • Genealogy databases
  • E-books, audiobooks, and streaming media
  • Books, DVDS, and play-a-ways available for checkout
  • Free online access to regional and national publications including The Advocate, The Times-Picayune, The New York Times, and Wall Street Journal
  • Relevant programming for all ages
    • Health & wellness classes
    • Monthly horticulture series
    • Language classes
    • Arts & crafts classes
    • Storytime & family events

Who can vote?

All registered voters in St. John the Baptist Parish can participate in the election.

When is Election Day?

Election Day is Saturday, November 15. 

When and where can I vote?

Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday, November 15. 

Early voting is available November 1-8 (excluding Sunday, November 2) from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the St. John Parish Government Complex, 1811 W. Airline Highway in LaPlace, and the Edgard Courthouse, 2393 Highway 18 in Edgard. The deadline to request an absentee ballot is 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 12. 

Is the Library a voting location?

No. Find your Election Day voting location at voterportal.sos.la.gov. 

What if I want more information?

Please email communications@stjohnlib.com