Good news from Albany

The Governor and Legislature have come to an agreement on the FY2016-17 New York State budget and there is some good news for libraries!

​State Library Aid will see a $4M increase for a total of $95.6M.  This represents a 4.3% increase which is equivalent to the increase in education aid and is the most library aid included in any state budget since FY2008-09.  This gets us closer to full funding for libraries ($102.7M) which we haven't seen since 2007.

State Construction Aid for libraries was increased by $5M for a total of $19M.  This represents  a 35% increase, a first in nearly a decade.  Specifically for NCLS, this increase amounts to a total of $548,000 (up from $406,000) available for our libraries for constructions projects.  This increase will enable more of our libraries to make much needed improvements to their buildings.

These increases in State support were not possible without the advocacy efforts from NYLA our member library people.  You're letters, phone calls and visits to our local Legislators have paid off.  Thank you for all of your hard work in speaking up for our libraries!

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.