Library Budget Information Sessions on May 1 & May 7
Albany Public Library is hosting two budget information sessions ahead of the May 15 vote on the proposed 2019 budget.
The sessions are:
• May 1 (Tues) | 6:00-7:00 pm | Washington Ave. Branch | 2nd Floor Community Room
• May 7 (Mon) | 6:00-7:00 pm | Pine Hills Branch | 1st Floor Large Meeting Room
The public is invited to attend the sessions to learn more about next year’s proposed operating budget of $7,153,022.
This spending plan is an increase of 2.0 percent over 2018. If approved by voters, the increase means that the owner of a home assessed at $150,000 would pay an extra $4.89 more in library taxes in 2019.
The proposed budget includes funding for:
• Staffing to open some branches for additional morning and evening hours
• Additional eBooks for the digital collection
• Increased programming and activities, including early literacy initiatives
• More opportunities for groups to use meeting and study rooms
• Service to the North Albany neighborhood while the library board continues discussions with staff and the public about how to best serve this community
City voters go to the polls on Tuesday, May 15, to cast ballots on the library’s budget. There are no library trustee positions up for election this year. The library’s vote is held in conjunction with the City School District of Albany.
Stephanie Simon
Stephanie Simon is manager of APL's Communication and Creative Services Department, which provides content and information for the library's website, social media, publications, videos, podcasts, and other outlets. Stephanie also manages APL's public relations and marketing efforts.