Library director details usage growth and asks for $73,000 levy increase; library candidate introduces herself

RAVENA‑COEYMANS‑SELKIRK — At the public library budget hearing preceding the board business, library director Lisa Newman presented 2025 usage data and explained why the library is requesting a $73,000 levy increase.

Newman told the board and attendees that "last year, we had nearly 32,000 visitors, circulated almost 76,000 items, and hosted nearly 11,000 people at 589 programs," and described year‑over‑year growth — a 15% increase in circulation and a 24% increase in program attendance. She noted sharp increases in demand for meeting rooms and a 64% rise in copier usage after nearby retail copy services closed.

Newman also detailed cost pressures: the closing of the book vendor Baker & Taylor has required the library to process new acquisitions in‑house; insurance and facility repairs (a 2024 roof replacement at about $59,000, a 2023 sewer repair of $40,000, and an $11,000 office flood in 2025) have increased operating costs; and health insurance expenses for staff have risen. "We're requesting $73,000 more than last year," she said, attributing the request to programming, materials and personnel needs.

Sarah Brunstead, the lone candidate for the open library board seat, introduced herself and said she has lived in New Baltimore about six years, uses the local library regularly, attends writing workshops and wants to "give back" through board service.

Library board members and community commenters supported the request during the hearing, noting expanded story‑time offerings, homebound delivery and interlibrary courier services through the Upper Hudson Library System. Newman said the library delivers materials to homebound residents and can borrow items from any of the 29 libraries in the system.

What happens next: The library levy increase is part of the May 19 ballot; if approved by voters, the library will use the funds to maintain programming, staffing and increased material processing duties.