Voters Approve Library Budget and Elect Two Trustees
Albany city residents voted May 20 to approve a 5% increase in Albany Public Library’s operating budget tax levy, which is under the NYS tax cap.
The budget was approved by 80% of the voters, with a final tally of 2,571 to 655.
The approved 2025-26 library operating tax levy is $8,257,997. The owner of a city of Albany home assessed at $250,000 will pay about an extra $11.44 for the library in the next year. The estimated homestead rate for the 2025-26 library tax is $1.15 per $1,000 of assessed value.
“Albany Public Library is grateful for the sustaining support of the community we serve,” said Executive Director Andrea Nicolay. “Our staff and trustees are committed to delivering the quality library services, materials, and programs that Albany values and expects.”
Voters also selected two members for the library’s Board of Trustees. Shaniqua Jackson and Rachael Vonada will serve five-year terms that start July 1, 2025.
The vote totals for the five trustee candidates were:
1. Shaniqua Jackson with 1,734 votes
2. Rachael Vonada with 1,130 votes
3. Christina Wiggins with 940 votes
4. Michele Greenblatt with 849 votes
5. Aidan Hennessey with 811 votes
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, and other outlets. Stephanie also manages APL's public relations and marketing efforts.