APL Budget Vote is May 21
Albany city residents go to the polls Tuesday, May 21, to vote on the Albany Public Library 2024-2025 tax levy. The budget plan was approved by the library’s Board of Trustees at its March 12 meeting. There will also be a trustee election on May 21, with three seats on the ballot.
The proposed 2024-2025 operating tax levy of $7,864,740 reflects a two percent increase in the annual total tax levy. This increase is under this year’s New York State tax cap for APL. If approved by voters in May, this increase means that the owner of a $250,000 home would pay approximately $9.15 more in library taxes next year.
“The decision to increase the library tax levy is never easy,” said Board of Trustees President Brigitte Pryor. “Securing adequate, sustainable funding for the library’s service program is a basic function of the Board. We continue to focus on the sustainability piece.”
“This budget increase of two percent supports our staff and core services, and positions us to leverage partnerships and grant opportunities,” said Executive Director Andrea Nicolay. “We are mindful that these days, public libraries and civil liberties are under attack. We strive for excellence and we don’t take community support for granted.”
In addition to casting ballots on the budget, voters will also select three trustees on May 21. Two positions carry full five-year terms, which commence on July 1, 2024. The two full terms will go to the two highest vote-getters. There is also a one-year term available, which commences after the election and ends in May 2025. The one-year term will go to the third highest vote-getter. Trustee candidate nominating packets are available at all seven APL branches, and on the website. Potential candidates have until May 1 to submit completed petitions to the City School District of Albany, which runs the library’s vote.
The library is hosting a budget information session and meet-the-candidate forum on Tuesday, May 7, at 6 pm at the Washington Ave. Branch.
View the 2024-2025 budget documents
Download the trustee candidate nominating packet
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.