Issue 7: Replacement levy would support Domonkas Library branch

SHEFFIELD LAKE — Although the ballot language reads "additional levy" for the Domonkas branch of the Lorain Public Library System, this is not a new tax. Issue 7 is a 2.2-mill replacement of the current 2.95 mills being collected from two levies — 2.2-mill and 0.75-mill measures that began in 2016. The levy makes up the majority of the operating levy, generating about $589,000 annually. Money from the levy is used for library operating costs such as staffing, programming, building and grounds maintenance, the purchase of materials for loan and other items. The levy will cost the owner of a $100,000 home about $77 annually. If the levy does not pass in May, cuts will need to be made to staffing, hours, programming and purchases. "We don't want to minimize people's experiences right now," Bonafield said. "We understand people are struggling, but we hope they see the value in what we do." From programs for early readers to teens and adults, the library is more than just a place for books. "Sheffield Lake is not a huge area," Bonafield said. "It's two and a half miles wide. We don't have a city center. I feel the library fills that city center role. It's a place where individuals and families can come and not expect to spend any money. People of all ages come in. With schools on break this week, we have a lot of teens coming in. It's a safe location, and it gets them out of their homes for a while." The benefits and services the library provides to the community are worth the expense of the levy. "We understand people are pinching pennies," she said. "The economy is not great. We offer free Internet in the building that is even accessible in the parking lot when the library is closed. We have hot spots we can loan out. We provide lunches to those 18 and under throughout summer when school is not in and students don't have access to school lunches. That's some of the things we do, not to mention the entertainment aspect." Access to new books and movies is a savings itself. "I know I'd never be able to afford all of the books and DVDs I take home," Bonafield said. Money generated from Issue 7 stays in the community. "Sheffield Lake is a smaller community and people here really do use the library," she said. "They really love it and feel very passionate about it. We have seen a range of services people come to the library for. The library has a big impact in the community." Contact Christina Jolliffe at ctnews@chroniclet.com.