Library Budget Vote is May 17
Albany city residents go to the polls Tuesday, May 17, to vote on the Albany Public Library 2022-2023 tax levy. The budget plan was unanimously approved by the library’s Board of Trustees at its March 8 meeting. There will also be a trustee election on May 17 for four open board seats.
The proposed 2022-2023 operating tax levy of $7,372,420 reflects a 2.5 percent increase in the annual total tax levy, which is under the NYS tax cap. If approved by voters in May, this increase means that the owner of a $150,000 home would pay approximately $5.98 more in library taxes next year.
“The proposed budget is a sensible plan that allows us to continue operating seven library branches for the people of Albany,” said Sarah Shearer, president of the APL Board of Trustees. “After three years of not asking for an increase to our tax levy, this year we are asking taxpayers to consider a very modest increase. Like everyone else, the library is dealing with rising costs for just about every facet of our operation, including books, utilities, facility maintenance, gas, and cleaning supplies. The small increase, along with more use of our fund balance, is necessary to continue current services and operations.”
“Albany Public Library is a lean organization that lives within its means, while still providing quality services and resources to the Albany community,” said Melanie Metzger, interim director. “We continue to make the most of the resources we have, but for the first time since 2018 we are asking residents for a small increase to cover higher operating costs. For the average homeowner in our city, that increase amounts to less than the cost of a fast food hamburger and fries meal.”
The library is hosting an information session on Tuesday, May 3, at 6 pm at the Washington Ave. Branch during which voters can learn more about the proposed budget and meet the trustee candidates. The session will also be posted on YouTube for on-demand viewing.
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.