WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A new ballot measure could shape the future of local libraries.

The Whatcom County Library System’s Board of Trustees (WCLS) recently approved a levy lid lift resolution for the primary election ballot on Aug. 5.

The proposition would increase the existing levy rate from 26 cents to 42 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value.

WCLS hasn’t lifted its library levy rate in 16 years, but it says the rising cost of library materials, staff wages and other supplies left it no choice but to go to the voters.

If the levy fails, the library says it will have to cut staff and reduce its open hours.

Only Whatcom County residents who live outside the Bellingham city limits will vote on the levy lid lift. It will require a simple majority in order to pass this August.