APL Board Approves 2020 Budget with No Tax Increase
The Albany Public Library Board of Trustees has approved a 2020 budget with no tax levy increase.
The 2020 library operations budget is $7,153,022—the same amount as the 2019 spending plan.
Because the budget does not raise the tax levy, the library is not required to put it out for a public vote. Approval by the library’s trustees, which was given unanimously at its March meeting, is all that is required for the 2020 spending plan to become official.
“The library trustees are committed to using taxpayer money efficiently, and this year we were able to approve a budget with no tax increase,” said Karen Strong, president of the APL Board of Trustees. “This amount of funding will allow us to continue to meet community needs, provide a community learning platform, cultivate leadership, and ensure long-term sustainability.”
“Albany Public Library’s administration and board have worked hard to make the most out of our finances so we can continue to operate seven neighborhood branches for the people of Albany,” said Scott C. Jarzombek, executive director of APL.
While there is no budget vote this year, there is a library trustee election on May 21 with three seats available. Two seats carry full five-year terms, while one carries a partial term of one year.
Nominationing petitions for the trustee positions are posted on the library’s website and are available at all branches. Nominations are due to the Clerk of the City School District of Albany by May 1.
The library is hosting the following public forums:
Information Session for People Interested in Running for Trustee
March 26 (Tuesday) at 6:00 pm – Washington Ave. Branch (2nd Floor, Tompkins Lab)
Current trustees will participate in a discussion about the work of the board, why they decided to run for office, and their experiences as candidates and board members.
Candidate and Budget Forums
The public can meet the Albany residents running for library trustee, learn more about the 2020 budget, and ask questions of library administration.
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.