Sachem Library to Hold Budget Vote Tuesday

The Sachem Public Library will increase its budget 2.24 percent for 2011-12, according to library director Judith Willner.

A budget vote is scheduled for Tuesday, April 5 at the library from 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Overall, the library's total operating budget will increase to $9.61 million this year from $9.09 million in 2010-11.

The biggest line items on the budget revolve around salaries. Professional staff will garner an increase from $2.4 million to $2.8 million. Clerical fill-time staff will make $1.2 million, while clerical part-time staff will make slightly more than $1 million.

According to the library staff, they’ll spend $359,250 on books, down from the $395,000 spent in 2010-11. There is an increase in media expenses at $185,700.

There will be $237,244 allotted for library operation programs.

On the mandated expense front, the budget calls for $686,599 for health insurance, $713,874 on New York State retirement plans and $412,488 in social security.

The library will receive $362,400 in grants and program income, and will use $400,000 from its fund balance.

“The proposed increase is modest, yet it provides for a redesign of our service model to include the development of an expanded teen area, and implementation of RFID technology to enhance reliability, ease of use, and speed of check out,” library board president Diane Longo said in a letter to the community. “This budget balances life-long learning and enrichment, with maintenance and enhancement of our beautiful facility.

Whether you use the library in person, via the phone, or electronically, it is, quite simply, one of the best values for your tax dollar. We ask for your continued support.”

Last year, the budget passed 342 to 106 and had an increase of .8 percent.

Bob Winowitch, the only library board trustee up for reelection, is running unopposed. He has served as a trustee since 1989 and will assume another 5-year term in office.

"I am proud to have been a part of the team that worked to expand our fantastic library, and to have formulated the library's mission for the future,” he said in a statement. “It has been an honor to represent the Sachem community. I'm looking forward to supporting the needs and interests of our community as the library approaches its centennial.”

You may vote if you are at least 18 years of age, a registered voter, a citizen of the United States and a resident of the Sachem Central School District for at least 30 days.

For a complete breakdown of the library budget, check out the PDF in the gallery box above.