Mill Levies and Elections

Read Guidelines for Mill Levy Elections. It will give you an overview of the Montana Code Annotated and the process for asking for dedicated library mills.
Talk to other libraries who have been through this process. Montana State Library staff can connect you with libraries who have successfully won an election.
Consider the following timeline to get a sense of the time commitment. This timeline is only a suggestion. You may find yourself in a situation where you are forced to work under pressure. This timeline is an ideal.

Libraries who have been successful will tell you that winning a campaign starts long before you start the paperwork and election process.
Winning a campaign starts by building strong, positive relationships with community members and local government officials.
It begins with excellent customer service and identifying and communicating how the library adds value to the community.
Our resources about advocacy may be of assistance as you begin this process.

Every Library is a nonprofit that supports library initiatives. Their books and webinars can help you craft a message, recruit volunteers, and run a campaign. They will assist libraries who are trying to win an election.
Contact Montana State Library staff for additional assistance:
- Tracy Cook, Lead Consulting and Learning Librarian
- Pam Henley, Statewide Consulting Librarian
- Suzanne Reymer, Statewide Consulting Librarian