Heidi Daniel presents King County Library System's annual report to council members

The King County Committee of the Whole meeting on August 26, 2025, focused on significant developments in cultural funding and the annual report from the King County Library System (KCLS).

During the meeting, Councilor McQueen highlighted the positive impact of recent funding initiatives, noting that 27% of sustained support funding has reached areas outside of Seattle, fostering diversity and inclusion in cultural organizations. McQueen emphasized the importance of tracking data to evaluate the effectiveness of these investments, expressing optimism about the potential for broader community impact.

The meeting also featured a presentation from KCLS Executive Director Heidi Daniel, who provided an overview of the library system's operations and achievements. KCLS operates 50 locations and circulated 20 million items last year, with a notable increase in digital circulation. Daniel reported that KCLS ranks second in the nation for eBook circulation, reflecting the community's commitment to literacy.

The library's budget, primarily funded by property taxes, totals approximately $147 million, with a significant portion allocated to public services. Daniel addressed challenges related to rising eBook costs and the impact of a 1% revenue cap, which limits growth in line with inflation. Despite these challenges, KCLS has expanded services, including adding Sunday hours to libraries in Sammamish, Mercer Island, and Vashon Island to improve access for underserved communities.

Overall, the meeting underscored King County's commitment to enhancing cultural engagement and library services, with a focus on equity and community needs. The discussions set the stage for ongoing efforts to support diverse voices and improve access to resources across the region.