MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Public libraries, they are a common sight in American culture. Many people remember renting countless books from them throughout their lives and today residents can use them for computer access and even get digital books.

But were do libraries get the money from to keep up and maintain this public service? According to Haslett Head Librarian Ann Chapman most of it comes from tax dollars.

"This millage is 90 percent of our operating budget so its critical," she said.

Libraries, like many other public services rely on millages for funding.

"It funds staffing and all our services, it funds books, movies and music, magazines, hard copy and digital," Chapman said.

For the Capital Area District Libraries, which has 13 branches including in Okemos and Haslett, it is time to renew their millage which is taxed annually and was last collected in December of 2013.

Okemos Head Librarian Betsy Hull said that without this millage her and other libraries would face very difficult decisions.

"When 90 percent of your funding comes from one source that would be a huge reduction in hours and services we provide to the public," she said.

The Millage is a renewal of the previous rate and if passed will be in place for the next four years. If denied, the Capital Area District Library Governing Board would have to find ways to make up those funds.

There was no comment from those opposed to the proposal.

The library millage along with several other items will be up for vote on August 5th.