A blog about library sustainability and relevancy through community support and partnerships in the North Country Library System

Friday, January 15, 2016

Permanent funding courtesy of your school ballot

It's the time of year again! Time where library board members gather their thoughts and decide if they are going to seek additional funding for their library by going out on the school ballot in the Spring.  Because this is one of the easiest ways to secure permanent additional funding (and Ed. Law says it's totally legit) I strongly encourage everyone to consider this option. 

Think of what your library could accomplish with the extra money.  Here are just a few of my favorite ideas:
  • Replace a cut from another funding source
  • Give your staff a well-deserved (and long overdue) raise!
  • Pay for an additional annual expense (internet/computer upgrades, etc.)
  • A really awesome new program for your patrons (that you plan to keep doing)
If I've convinced you and you're ready to do this (or if you are still on the fence) check out the School Ballot Kit on the NCLS Website.  It details the process and has a timeline for all the steps involved (don't worry - it's not a complicated process).

P.S.  If your library board hasn't had a school ballot discussion - they need to start talking!  Just let me know and I will be more than happy to help get the ball rolling.

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