The St. Joseph Public Library system is asking voters on Tuesday to renew a portion of its operating levy.

A special election will be held Aug. 8 for Buchanan County voters to decide whether to continue a .15 cent levy for a period of 20 years for the St. Joseph Library to operate and maintain facilities. If approved, the levy would continue in 2020. As we previously reported, Library Director, Mary-Beth Revels said the levy was initially approved by voters in 1999.

The total library levy is .42 cents, of that .27 cents is permanent. Revels said the in total it generates about $3.2 million a year. She said the library realizes the community appreciates the inclusion of a sunset clause so the .15 cents is up for renewal every 20 years.

Buchanan County Clerk Mary Baack-Garvey anticipates a voter turnout of around 10 percent Tuesday. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. CLICK HERE to view ballots and polling locations.