2026 Clinton Community Library Budget Proposition
Frequently Asked Questions
TURN OVER your ballot and VOTE on the Library Budget Proposition
What is the library asking voters to approve?
On November 3, 2026, residents of the Town of Clinton will vote on a proposition to increase annual funding for the Clinton Community Library from $161,800 to $169,081, an increase of $7,281 (4.5%). The proposition will appear on the back of the ballot and asks whether the Town’s annual contribution to the Library should be increased to support library operations and services.
The proposition on the ballot will read:
SHALL THE ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION OF THE TOWN OF CLINTON FOR THE OPERATING BUDGET OF THE CLINTON COMMUNITY LIBRARY BE INCREASED FROM ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-ONE THOUSAND EIGHT HUNDRED DOLLARS ($161,800) ANNUALLY TO ONE HUNDRED SIXTY-NINE THOUSAND AND EIGHTY-ONE DOLLARS ($169,081) ANNUALLY?
Didn’t we just vote on a library budget?
Yes. In 2025, Town of Clinton voters approved a library funding increase, with approximately 75% voting in favor.
Why is another increase needed?
The cost of books, digital materials, insurance, utilities, and other operating expenses continues to rise. This request would help the Library maintain current services, programs, and hours while keeping pace with increasing costs.
How much will it cost taxpayers?
The Library is requesting a 4.5% increase in funding, however, the Town’s total residential assessed value increased by 17.9% in 2026. As a result, the library tax rate actually decreased. For a home assessed at the Town median value of $556,000, the estimated annual library tax would be $61.91 in 2026, compared with $69.80 for a home assessed at the same value in 2025.
How will the funds be used?
Taxpayer dollars are spent on physical items and digital materials for our collection, community events, programs for children, teens, and adults, and staffing to keep the library open 36 hours a week.
I don’t use the Library, how would this benefit me?
The Library serves the entire community. In addition to borrowing materials, residents use the Library for internet access, printing and faxing services, educational programs, community events, lifelong learning opportunities, and cultural enrichment. Even if you don’t regularly borrow books, your support helps ensure that these resources remain available to your neighbors and future generations. You’re also welcome to take advantage of everything the Library offers, from concerts and lectures to museum passes, classes, and special events.
How do I vote on the library budget proposition?
New York State law lets taxpayers decide how they want to support their local library. Look for the library proposition on the back of your election ballot. You’ll have the option to vote “Yes” or “No” on Clinton Community Library’s funding request.
Who can I contact if I have further questions?
Please reach out to a Library Board Trustee at trustees@clintoncommunitylibrary.org.