Monroe Free Library caps proposed 2012 spending plan increase at $13 per household

Monroe — On Election Day, Nov. 8, the Monroe Free Library will be on the ballot in Monroe requesting an increase of $52,307. This will mean an increase of approximately $13 per year on the average Monroe household. The library’s current is $1,163,825. The current tax rate for library expenses are $2.82 per $1,000 of assessed valuation. It would increase to $3.07 if the spending plan is approved. Library Director Marilyn McIntosh says that many of the factors that affect everyone in an economic downturn have hit the library hard. The cost of fixed expenses such as insurance and heating oil are up. The library has also committed to removing a $1-per-DVD use fee. “Our patrons have been very clear that they don’t like the charge, and we are getting rid of it.” McIntosh said. “But that step is seriously reducing our income.” The library is operating on its 2009 budget, since a proposed increase was denied at the polls last year. Monroe residents seeking more details can contact McIntosh at 783-4411. The library is also distributing a flyer at its Circulation Desk detailing the proposed change. Endorsements Monroe Village Mayor James C. Purcell as well as Dan Burke and Harley Doles, candidates for the Town Board of Monroe, have issued endorsements in support of The Monroe Free Library. The mayor’s office issued this statement: “I support the Monroe Free Library’s budget and I hope that the community will too. The Monroe Free Library is a key component of our downtown, and an invaluable resource helping the Monroe community get by during these tough economic times.” The statement from Burke and Doles reads: “There is no replacement for a library. Libraries house the gift of imagination. The Monroe Free Library may be small in size, compared to others, but it’s world-class in its devotion to the residents of Monroe.”