Investing in Places That Bring Us Together
Whether you’re bringing your child to story time, studying for an exam, applying for a new job, learning a new skill, or simply finding a quiet place to work, the Broward County Library system is part of everyday life for tens of thousands of people across our community. With 37 branches countywide, the library provides free access to books, technology, educational programs, and welcoming community spaces.
As Florida voters consider Amendment 3 this November, you may have questions about what it could mean for public libraries. This page explains the proposal and why it matters to you and the Broward County Library system.
Amendment 3 would affect not only Florida's property tax system, but also our libraries. Property taxes help fund Broward County services—including public libraries—so changes to those taxes could affect the resources available for library branches, programs, technology, collections and other services. No replacement source of funding has been identified.
What is Amendment 3?
Amendment 3 is a proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution that would make significant changes to homestead property taxes.
If approved by voters:
• Beginning January 1, 2027, the homestead exemption for non-school taxes would increase from $50,000 to $150,000.
• Beginning January 1, 2028, that exemption would increase again to $250,000.
• Beginning in 2029, the exemption amount would increase with inflation.
• Homeowners who purchase a home on or after January 1, 2027, would generally wait five years before becoming eligible for the new exemption.
• The amendment also directs the Florida Legislature to develop a plan for eliminating homestead property taxes, but it does not establish a timeline or identify a replacement source of funding.
What could this mean for Broward County Library?
Broward County Library is funded through Broward County's general budget, which includes property tax revenue. If Amendment 3 passes, it would significantly reduce the funding available for county services, like the library system, because there is currently no replacement funding identified.
Future budget decisions would be made by the Broward County Commission, but reduced funding could affect library operations, programs, collections, technology, hours, and other services residents rely on.
Note, the proposed amendment language states “This amendment requires counties and municipalities to use property taxes solely for public safety, education and schools, infrastructure, natural resources, bond debt service, retirement benefits for employees, and operations and administration. Other expenditures may be approved by county officers or county or municipal governing bodies unless prohibited by general law, notwithstanding Article VII, Section 9(a) of the Florida Constitution, which allows counties and municipalities to levy property taxes for their respective purposes.”
This means the library system is not explicitly listed as one of the core services that may be funded with property tax revenues.
Opening Doors Across Our Community
Broward County Library is one of the largest public library systems in Florida, serving 5,000,000 residents every year across 37 branches.
Did you know your library provides all of this for free?
• Children’s storytimes and early literacy programs
• Science and technology kits for children
• The Summer Learning Program
• Homework help and online learning tools
• Dedicated teen spaces and programs
Computers, Technology and Digital Access
• Public computers and Wi-Fi
• Makerspaces and creative technology
• Streaming movies, music and digital learning platforms
Job Search, Career and Educational Resources
• Resume and technology classes
• Job search and career resources
• English-language learning resources
• Citizenship resources
Books, eBooks and Research Resources
• Books, eBooks and audiobooks
• Research materials, newspapers and magazines
• Local history and genealogy collections
Classes, Cultural Programs and Community Spaces
• Meeting rooms and study spaces
• Cultural programs, workshops and exhibits
Every day, Broward County Library helps children learn, students succeed, job seekers find opportunities, seniors stay connected, and neighbors come together, all at no cost to the people who use these services.
Why Public Library Funding Matters
Public libraries are places where everyone is welcome, regardless of age or income. Funding helps keep branches open and supports collections, technology, educational programs, and staff, and ensure free access to information, learning, and community resources.
Private donations through the Broward Public Library Foundation help expand library programs and opportunities, but they are intended to enhance public libraries, not replace the public funding that supports daily operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Broward Public Library Foundation support or oppose Amendment 3?
Our purpose is to educate. The Broward Public Library Foundation is providing this information so residents can understand Amendment 3 and its potential impact on Broward County Library. We encourage voters to learn about the proposal and make their own informed decision.
Will libraries close or will services be reduced if Amendment 3 passes?
Future funding decisions would be made by the Broward County Commission through the budget process. Because no replacement funding has been identified, reduced revenue could affect library services, programs, hours, collections, or future investments.
Isn't the library free?
Yes. Library services are free for residents to use, but they are funded through public investment.
Doesn't the Foundation pay for the library?
No. The Foundation enhances library programs through private donations, while Broward County funds the day-to-day operation of the library system. You can find a list of the programs funded by the Library Foundation here.
Where can I learn more?
Visit https://www.broward.org/countyfunding to learn more about the proposed amendment and how it could affect local services.
