FLA October 2026 Newsletter
30 Oct 2026
| A Message from the President |
Dear FLA members and friends,
With the November election just days away, I want to dedicate this month's newsletter to an issue that could have significant consequences for Florida's public libraries: Amendment 3.
As you know, the Florida Library Association has publicly expressed its opposition to Amendment 3, because of concerns about the potential impact it could have, if passed, on local government funding and the library services our communities depend on. Over the past several months, FLA has been gathering information, speaking with library leaders, and participating in conversations about what this amendment could mean for libraries across the state.
In this special edition, we are sharing FLA's official statement, findings from our recent follow-up survey of public libraries, and media coverage on the potential impact of Amendment 3 if passed. Thank you to everyone who has contributed and continues to speak up for Florida's libraries.
Another big thank you to all our members and supporters for your continued commitment to Florida's libraries and for staying informed and engaged in the issues that affect our profession and the communities we serve.
Sincerely,
Marina Morgan
FLA President
| What Florida Libraries Are Telling Us: Amendment 3 Follow-Up Survey |
Following its initial survey in July, the Florida Library Association conducted a follow-up survey to gather more specific information about the potential impact of Amendment 3 on public library budgets, staffing, services, and operations. The survey received 23 responses. While the full financial impact remains uncertain for many libraries, several respondents shared estimates and described the difficult decisions their libraries could face if Amendment 3 passes.
FLA thanks those who participated in the survey and shared their perspectives.
Financial Impact
Several respondents reported potential budget reductions ranging from 10% to 50%.
- One library system estimated a loss of approximately $7 million over two years.
- Another reported a worst-case scenario of $8.6 million in each of the first two years.
- One library anticipated a 44% reduction in its operating budget.
- Another library system was asked to prepare a budget reflecting a 50% reduction, although no final decision had been made.
Staffing, Operating Hours, and Potential Closures
Respondents identified several possible operational changes, including layoffs, hiring freezes, reduced operating hours, and branch closures.
- One library anticipated eliminating 12 staff positions and reducing its operating schedule from six days to four days per week.
- One library system reported that as many as five branches could close, leaving only its main library operating.
- Other respondents expressed concerns that their libraries could cease operations entirely within one or two years.
Programs, Collections, and Services
Potential reductions extend beyond staffing and operating hours. Respondents identified concerns about funding for books, e-books, databases, technology, outreach, and community programming.
- One library reported that it currently offers more than 60 programs each month, serving approximately 2,000 attendees. If the anticipated reductions occur, it expects to offer 20 or fewer programs per month.
- Other respondents described possible reductions or elimination of outreach to schools, daycares, and assisted living facilities, as well as cooperative library services.
Impact on Communities
Respondents emphasized the essential role public libraries play in their communities, particularly in rural and underserved areas where alternative services may be limited or unavailable.
Libraries provide access to computers, the internet, educational resources, children's programming, and community gathering spaces. Several respondents expressed concern about the impact of reduced services on residents who rely on libraries for these resources.
Looking Ahead
Although these projections are not confirmed budget reductions, the responses illustrate the difficult choices some Florida libraries may face if Amendment 3 passes.
Note: These findings reflect the anticipated impacts reported by 23 survey respondents and should not be interpreted as representative of all Florida public libraries.
| Voices from Florida Libraries |
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| Amendment 3 in the News and Additional Resources |
- REFORMA de Florida Statement against Amendment 3
- Florida Amendment 3 Could Put 123,000 Jobs at Risk, EPI Report Says
- Largo draft budget shows what Amendment 3 could cost: library hours halved, 136 jobs cut
- County talks of Amendment 3 impact, solutions
- Amendment 3 could cut Marion County’s library budget nearly in half
- Northeast Florida public safety leaders warn passing Amendment 3 could bring police, fire service cuts
- How Amendment 3 may affect Florida's public libraries
- Florida Amendment 3: How property tax vote could impact library funding
Florida Library Association
111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr.
Lakeland, FL 33801
850-270-9205 | fla@flalib.org
The Florida Library Association is a nonprofit institution, classified as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Our federal tax identification number is 59-1159907. All gifts to FLA are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by applicable laws. The Florida Library Association, Inc. state registration number is CH22102. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Florida State Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352) | www.FloridaConsumerHelp.com
