Thank you to everyone who participated in library advocacy this year! Here is an update from the New York Library Association on the state budget, and also a preview of the Albany Public Library budget.
NYS Budget Update: April 1st has come and gone. The budget is not yet approved yet. If you haven’t sent a letter to your elected officials, you can still send one this week. Visit NYLA for more info.
Library Budget Update: The Albany Public Library budget was recently published. As discussed in a recent Times Union article, there will be a tax increase this year. The budget vote will take place on Tuesday, May 16th, 2023. Visit Albany City Schools to find your polling location (it may not be the same as your General Election location.) The Library will hold an info session on the budget on May 3rd at the Washington Avenue Branch.
If you see yourself in one of the examples below or have experienced another way that the library has helped you, we encourage you to vote yes on May 16.
- Have you visited the library to use a computer for job-searching, or for a last-minute quick print job when your printer was on the fritz? It is free to use a computer at APL, whether or not you have a library card. And note that your 1st three pages per day at Albany Public Library are also free!
- Have you checked out a wireless hotspot from APL or perhaps sought tech help with your own device? APL offers One-on -One Computer Skills as well as Tech Tutoring at various branches.
- Have you picked up tax forms from APL, or participated in the free tax assistance offered by NYS Tax Department employees this season at the Washington Avenue branch? Tax assistance is offered by appointment through NYS, during this year’s tax season.
- Have you checked out a stack of children’s books for your classroom or for your own children, noting the beautiful displays curated by APL’s dedicated librarians? One recent display at APL’s Bach branch featured stories highlighting immigrant and refugee experiences.
- Have you found overdue Albany Public Library items under the couch or on the shelf at home and returned them, anticipating a fine, only to find out that your account was clear? APL is fine-free!
- Have you attended one of APL’s unique events or performances? The Library regularly offers movie screenings, music performances, book discussion groups, craft projects, and more. See the Library‘s website for more information and click on “event calendar”.
- Have you checked out a museum pass at the Library to visit one of the local museums? The Library has a multitude of museum passes.
- Have you struck up a conversation at the Library with a neighbor, a friend, or an employee? Has the Library brought a smile to your face? The Library offers a place for community-building, catching up, and building your support network, so crucial during these challenging times.
