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Bourbonnais, IL Library Vote: What Could 12 Cents a Day Change?
Bourbonnais, IL – What if the cost of approximately 11 cups of coffee per year could help shape the future of a community library? That's one way to understand the proposed property tax increase Bourb
By Grant Holloway · 2026-10-19T16:40:34.117Z
Bourbonnais, IL – What if the cost of approximately 11 cups of coffee per year could help shape the future of a community library? That's one way to understand the proposed property tax increase Bourbonnais Public Library District voters will consider Tuesday, November 3, with funding for educational resources, youth programs and building improvements at stake.
According to the Bourbonnais Public Library District, the referendum would increase its property tax limiting rate to 0.290% for the 2026 levy year, an increase of 0.134 percentage points.
What Does That Mean for Homeowners?
For a property with a fair market value of $100,000, the district estimates the additional tax would be $44.67 annually.
Broken down, that's approximately 12 cents per day.
For comparison, at $4 per cup, the entire annual increase would equal roughly 11 cups of coffee, or about one coffee per month.
The comparison illustrates the estimated cost for a $100,000 property. Actual tax increases would vary based on property values and applicable assessments.
What Would the Money Support?
Library officials say approval would provide additional financial resources for major repairs, expanded collections, programming and services.
Plans also include a proposed building expansion designed to create quiet study spaces, address noise concerns and increase the footprint of youth services.
These improvements could support educational opportunities and cultural enrichment for families throughout the community.
What Happens if the Referendum Fails?
The district says existing revenue would not cover projected operating expenses.
Without additional funding, library officials anticipate reduced staffing and operating hours, limited programming, deferred building repairs and cancellation of the proposed expansion.
Voters Decide November 3
The referendum will appear on ballots within the Bourbonnais Public Library District in Kankakee County.
Ultimately, voters will determine whether the additional property tax is worth the proposed improvements and continued services.
For a $100,000 home, the estimated annual increase is roughly the price of 11 coffees. The decision, however, could have implications for library services well beyond Election Day.