November 8 Vote Results:
Phoenicia 414 Unofficial Results: Yes 577, No 298
Red Hook Unofficial Results: Yes 1327, No 1128
Daily Freeman 11.2.11 - Jay Braman Jr. - "Ballot proposal aims to boost Phoenicia Library funding" - A proposal on the November 8 ballot would provide an additional $10,000 to the Phoenicia Library. This amount will help to continue to fund the increased usage of the library and staff salaries, which have not changed since 2006.
Daily Freeman - 10.29.11 - "VIDEO: In Hurley, Halloween is for the young" - "There was no shortage of costumed children on Friday at the Hurley Reformed Church, where the town library and the Hurley Heritage Society hosted a Halloween party for youngsters."
Daily Freeman - 10.21.11 - William J. Kemble - "Voters OK Hurley Library budget, 57-4" - "Voters on Thursday also elected three uncontested candidates to the library board: incumbents Harvey Kronick and Linda Katt and newcomer Susanna Elting."
Daily Freeman - 10.19.11 - William J. Kemble - "Hurley library budget vote set for Thursday" - "Town residents on Thursday will vote on a proposed $105,270 budget for the Hurley Library..Library Board member Harvey Kronick said the new budget calls for higher taxes because the library will receive less money next year from aid and grants — $19,300 vs. the current $20,500..Also on the ballot will be three candidates running unopposed for seats on the Library Board: Kronick, incumbent Linda Katt and Susanna Elting."
Daily Freeman - 10.13.11 - William J. Kemble - "Stone Ridge Library expansion rejected" - "Marbletown residents on Wednesday voted 796 to 440 against a nearly $4 million plan to renovate and expand the Stone Ridge Library." The library board will now have to go back to the drawing board to find a solution to such problems as cracks in the walls, electrical problems, and leaks.
Daily Freeman - 10.12.11 - William J. Kemble - "Vote on Stone Ridge Library expansion set for today" - "Marbletown residents will vote today on a proposal to renovate and expand the Stone Ridge Library. The $4 million project, if approved, will be paid for with a 20-year bond. Voting will be 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the library on Main Street (U.S. Route 209)."
Daily Freeman - 9.1.11 - "Rosendale, Saugerties, Ulster library budgets pass" - "Voters Thursday night approved library district budgets in the towns of Rosendale, Saugerties, and Ulster."
Rosendale Public Library budget proposition passed by 94.3%, 150 YES to 9 NO.
Saugerties Public Library budget proposition passed by 64.4%, 342 YES to 189 NO.
Town of Ulster Public Library budget proposition passed by 86.9%, 60 YES to 9 NO.
West Hurley Public Library budget proposition passed by 96%, 53 YES to 2 NO.
Woodstock Public Library budget proposition passed by 87%, 244 YES to 36 NO.
Hudson Valley Times - 8.26.11 - by Paul Smart - "Reading the Voters: Woodstock, West Hurley Libraries hold votes on budgets, trustees" - Votes will be held on September 1st for both the Woodstock and West Hurley Libraries. The West Hurley's libraries legislation has also been changed to allow for different voting hours and additional trustees.
Daily Freeman – 8.15.11 – Ariel Zangla - "New Saugerties library director plans extensive programming" - Sukrit Goswami would like to increase the number of both entertaining and educational programs for patrons. He also would like to include more volunteer opportunities for both adults and teens.
Daily Freeman – 8.15.11 - "West Hurley library budget would hike tax levy 5%" - "The proposed budget, as well as candidates for the library’s Board of Trustees, will be up for election Sept. 1. Polls will be open from 5 to 10 p.m. at the library at 42 Clover St., West Hurley...There are five seats available on the library’s Board of Trustees, but only four candidates. Running for re-election are Abby Gross, Robert Hoffman Jr. and Dan Smith. Rebecca Federspiel has been filling an open position and is also running for election."
Daily Freeman - 8.9.11 - "8 running for Saugerties library board" - "The candidates on the ballot will be incumbents Edward 'Ted' Conathan and Steve Crohn, as well as Bernard 'Bernie' Carroll, Crystal Holly Christiana, Cecelia Karashay, Katherine Gordon, Rebecca Mignano-Campbell and Eric Zenker."
Daily Freeman - 8.4.11 0- by William J. Kemble - "3 seek seats on Ulster library board" - "Two incumbents and one newcomer have filed petitions to run next month for three available seats on the town library board...Town residents also will vote on a proposed $305,000 library budget for 2011-12. It calls for spending 4.6 percent more than in 2010-11 and increasing the library tax by 2 percent...Voting will be from 2-8 p.m. Sept. 1 in the library, 860 Ulster Ave."
Daily Freeman - 8.6.11 - Ariel Zangla - "Proposed Saugerties library budget calls for 4% increase in tax levy" - "Voting on the budget proposal will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sept. 1 in the library on Washington Avenue. Voters also will elect four people top the library’s Board of Trustees. Two of the winners will serve a full five-year term, one will serve a four-year term and one will serve a one-year term."
Hudson Valley Times - 6.9.11 - by Jonathan Heppner - "A look into the future: Library hosts a working session" - More than 60 citizens met at the Woodstock Community Center on Saturday, June 4th to discuss the question: "What is your vision of Woodstock in 5 years if everything goes as well as possible?”
Press Release - The Marlboro Free Library annual budget passed by a vote of 96 yes to 7 no. Michael Heller was elected to the Board of Trustees for one five year term beginning July 1, 2011.
Daily Freeman - 6.8.11 - By Paul Kirby - "Kingston voters approve library budget" - "Voters approved the budget, 164-69, on Tuesday, according to Margie Menard, director of the Franklin Street facility. The average household’s library tax under the budget is $60 per year. Elected to three-year terms on the Board of Trustees were: Rita Worthington, with 158 votes; Lisa Terwilliger, 151; and Ellen DiFalco, 148. Incumbent Susan Simek won a two-year term with 143 votes. Incumbent Edwin Pell lost his re-election bid."
Daily Freeman - 6.6.11 - By Paul Kirby - "City voters decide Tuesday on 4.4% library tax hike" - "Leaving the board are Paul Werbalowsky, who has completed a three-year term, and Hilary Swan, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board. Up for election for terms beginning July 1 are incumbents Edwin Pell and Susan Simek, and newcomers Ellen DiFalco, Lisa Terwilliger and Rita Worthington...Leaving the board are Paul Werbalowsky, who has completed a three-year term, and Hilary Swan, who was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board. Up for election for terms beginning July 1 are incumbents Edwin Pell and Susan Simek, and newcomers Ellen DiFalco, Lisa Terwilliger and Rita Worthington...Another significant increase, $3,800, is for library materials and programming. The funds will be spent on circulating materials, including e-books and downloadable audio books, and allow the library to keep up with the increasing costs for DVDs, music CDs, periodical subscriptions and books."
Press Release - Saturday, May 21 - Phoenix Rising Benefit Concert - The concert will be held at Onteora High School, Route 28, Boiceville, NY, on Saturday May 21, from 3-8 p.m.
Press Release - The Highland Public Library budget vote passed 101 to 23. Barbara Shepard was elected to the one open seat on the board with 98 votes. There were 2 write-ins. 1 for Armen Fisher and 1 for Steven Chia.
Daily Freeman - 4.14.11 - by Jay Braman Jr. - "Phoenicia Library settles into temporary location after fire" - Because of a co-insurance clause in the library's insurance policy, the library must contribute 20% of the cost to rebuild. Since the building must be gutted and the contents entirely replaced, that share could amount to over $100,000. The library has already begun fundraising efforts.
YNN (Your News Now) – 4.7.11 - "Library staff, volunteers and community members come together after fire" - After the fire three weeks ago, volunteers have begun to offer book donations as well as donating time and paint for their temporary location. It is estimated that the library will have to fundraise over $100,000 to restore the building and the collection.
Daily Freeman - 3.24.11 - "Editorial: Rebuilding in Phoenicia" - "A library is, in one regard, a building in which community members forge and renew relationships. But its collection constitutes much of the community’s physical memory, of both the world beyond and the generations that have lived in the shadow of Mount Tremper or within earshot of the gurgling — sometimes roaring — Esopus Creek."
Daily Freeman - 3.22.11 - "Phoenicia Library finds temporary home in wake of fire" - by By Jay Braman Jr.- "The temporary location is the medical building on Ava Maria Drive, across the street from the post office." The library is asking that people not drop off book donations for the current moment. Work crews are being organized to continue the business of recovery. To volunteer, email phoeniciadirector@gmail.com. Monetary donations are being accepted at P.O. Box 555, Phoenicia, N.Y. 12464 or in person at the library’s temporary location.
Daily Freeman - 3.21.11 - "Phoenicia Library salvageable, fire chief says" - by Ann Gibbons - "Phoenicia Fire Chief Gary Carr Jr. said Sunday that the fire, ruled accidental and electrical in nature, was most likely due to a short in wiring." “You can imagine how quickly old books and shelving would go up in flames,” Singer said. “In addition to our regular books, we lost a valuable collection of books and artifacts on fly fishing and an extensive collection of art books we obtained from a foundation grant.”
Daily Freeman - 3.19.11 - "Fire Guts Phoenicia Library" - A fire early Saturday, March 19th destroyed the contents of the Phoenicia Library, but left the structure intact. An electrical fire was believed to be the cause of the fire.
Daily Freeman - 3.11.11 - "Hein dividing grant among five programs" - "Ulster County Executive Michael Hein is donating his $2,500 grant from the New York Business Development Corp.’s 2010 Chairman’s Leadership Award to five local charities. Hein said he will present checks of $500 each to Family of Woodstock’s Ellenville Food Pantry, Family’s Domestic Violence Shelter, the Queens Galley, the Ulster County Library Association and the Ulster County SPCA in recognition of their efforts to assist the needy populations of Ulster County."
Southern Ulster Times - 2.21.11 - "Library gives up second option" - The library board agreed to let the agreement on the 37 Main Street property expire. "The board released their proposed budget for the next fiscal year, which runs from July 1, 2011 to June 30, 2012. The new budget totals $403,094, which represents a 3% [$11,100] hike over the present budget." Much of the increase is related to increases in retirement, medical insurance, and utilities. "The board moved their next meeting to March 8 at 6 p.m. to allow Dempsey to attend the Library Advocacy Day scheduled for March 1 at the Capitol in Albany."
Southern Ulster Times - 1.26.11 - Mark Reynolds - "Library gives up Commercial Avenue site option" - The library board agreed to let the agreement on the Commercial Ave site expire. The library still has an option on a Main St. site. If the library stayed where it is now, they faced several difficulties including having to demolish the building because of its current condition. The board discussed continuting to fund raise in order to keep the project alive.
Daily Freeman – 1.28.11 – by Ariel Zangla-Girard - "ONE FOR THE BOOKS: Saugerties Library celebrates expansion" - "The library, at 91 Washington Ave., has grown from 8,365 square feet to 13,162 square feet as part of a $6.995 million renovation approved by library district voters in May 2008. The upgraded library features soft seating for users to relax in, as well as additional computers, a community room, a local history room, an area for teens and an expanded children’s area."
Hudson Valley Times -1.13.11 - by Paul Smart - "Happy 25th Woodstock Library Forum hits a milestone" - The Woodstock Library Forum has been in operation for 25 years. It offers the community an average of three forum events a month.
Hudson Valley Times - 1.13.11 - by Erin Quinn - "Library’s fate still up in the air in Highland" - The Highland Library Board listened to suggestions made by members of the public about how to progress after the failed bond vote to build a new library.
Daily Freeman - 12.31.10 - By Ariel Zangla-Girard = "The newly renovated Saugerties Public Library on Washington Avenue will open Jan. 31" - The temporary location in the town hall closed on December 31st. A dedication ceremony will be held on January 29 at 2pm.
Poughkeepsie Journal - 12. 16.10 - Craig Wolf = "Voters reject $6.6 million plan to build new library in Highland" - "A $6.6 million plan to build was rejected by voters Tuesday by 95 votes, with 716 in favor and 811 opposed, library officials said." The library board will have to reevaluate their options, because the current building is too small and in disrepair.
Hudson Valley Times - 12.9.10 - by Megan Labrise - "Decision time: Highland Public Library vote to take place on Dec. 14" - "More than 150 people packed American Legion Post #193 on Tuesday, Nov. 30 to discuss the new Highland Public Library proposal."
Hudson Valley Times - 11.25.10 - Letter to the Editor by Debbie Vought - "Thankful to the Library" - The author estimates that she has saved $14,000 in the last year by using the resources available at the Saugerties Library.
Hudson Valley Times - 12.2.10 - Letters to the Editor by "Support the new library on Dec. 14" - The author uses the current library and looks forward to having access to a new community room.
Hudson Valley Times - 12.2.10 - Letters to the Editor by Rosalie Prizzia Kelsall - "Time to create a new gathering place in Highland" - The author supports the construction of a new library building as a gathering place.
Hudson Valley Times - 12.2.10 - Letters to the Editor by Eric Norberg - "Library and its economic impact" - The author argues that the new Highland Library facility will offer both a good return on investment and will serve as an "anchor" for the revitalization of the community.
Daily Freeman - 11.29.10 - "Stone Ridge Library gets historic landmark status" - The two buildings making up the Stone Ridge Library - the John Lounsbery Residence (circa 1798) and the Evert C. Wynkoop residence (circa 1797) - have both been formally designated as a historic landmark in the town of Marbletown.
Hudson Valley Times - 11.11.10 - by Megan Labrise - "To build or not to build?" - "One hundred residents’ sentiments seemed to split 50-50 at a second public meeting to discuss the upcoming Highland Public Library building referendum." The $6.79 million dollar project would create a state-of-the-art library building. Many residents are concerned that the $78 per year tax increase would be difficult for many families to afford.
Unofficial Vote Results - West Shokan - passed (1280 - 419)
Daily Freeman - 10.29.10 - By WILLIAM J. KEMBLE - "Olive voters must flip ballot to vote on funding" - The director of the West Shokan Library reminds libraries to flip over their ballots in order to vote on the $129,000 proposition for yearly funding for the library.
Southern Ulster Times - 10.27.10 - By MARK REYNOLDS - "Minutes reveal library timeline" - The article traces the Highland Library board's process in selecting the Commercial Avenue site for the new library.
Daily Freeman - 10.21.10 - "Hurley library budget approved" - "The Hurley Library District’s proposed $102,580 budget for 2011 was approved by voters on Thursday, 36-3...Elected to seats on the library board were incumbent Arlene Ryan and newcomer Sue Mason, each with 38 votes. There was no candidate for the third available seat."
Daily Freeman - 10.1.10 - "Taxes up 4.9% in Hurley Library’s 2011 budget" by William J. Kemble - Most of the increase is due to a decrease in state funding and interest income. The vote will be held on October 21 from 4-7pm. "Two candidates are running unopposed for four-year seats on the library board: incumbent Arlene Ryan and newcomer Sue Mason. A third seat is available, but no candidates came forward for it."
Daily Freeman - 9.30.10 - "No deep cuts, Hein tells Ulster County libraries" - "Ulster County Executive Michael Hein has promised area libraries that the county budget he’ll propose for 2011 will include funding for the upcoming year that is “comparable” to what county lawmakers gave them in 2010." The funding will be included in the budget in a separate line item.
Olive Free Press 9.23.10 - "Kid's Corner" by Cally Mansfield, Age 10 - Cally wrote a letter expressing why she feels that the West Shokan Library is a treasure trove for her.
Daily Freeman - 9.3.10 - "Voters OK 5 library budgets in Ulster County" - "Budgets for 2011 in the Rosendale, Saugerties, Ulster, West Hurley and Woodstock library districts were approved by voters on Thursday."
Daily Freeman - 8.31.10 – Letters to the Editor - Janine-Fallon Mower attended the Woodstock Library Boards' presentation about the proposed budget. She writes positively about her impression of the increases as well as the candidates running for the board.
Daily Freeman - 8.25.10 - "New Paltz cops seek suspect in library obscenity case" - "Town police are looking for a man accused of handing out “obscene material to a female teenager” at Elting Memorial Library in the village of New Paltz last week."
Daily Freeman - 8.22.10 - "Woodstock Library seeks 3.36% hike in tax levy" - Voting will be from noon-10pm on September 2 at the library. One of the primary increases will be for purchasing books.
Daily Freeman - 8.13.10 - "Library vote set for Sept. 2 in West Hurley" - "The West Hurley Library is seeking approval of a $178,180 operating budget for the 2011 fiscal year." Much of the budget increases will go towards matching a Gates IBM broadband grant, hiring a page to offer staff more time to help patrons, and purchasing multimedia, such as DVDs.
Millerton News - 8.12.10 - Whitney Joseph - "Library annex makes sweet music" - The library purchased a building last year at 28 Century Boulevard, nicknamed the "annex." The library hosted a free concert series there, sponsored by a grant from the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation. The long-term vision of the library is to connect the current library building with the annex.
Daily Freeman - 8.13.10 - "Town of Esopus Library wants to add 24 solar panels" - The library is seeking state approval to use leftover grant money to install an additional 24 solar panels in the library. "Library Director Kelly Tomseski said the solar panels are expected to save about one-third of electric costs." The library will also have to do some landscaping to keep the solar panels fully exposed to the sun.
Olive Press - 8.12.10 - "Heading for the Polls" - The West Shokan Library has begun a petition drive to create a 414 proposition to the ballot. If successful, this would increase tax funding from the town from $43,000 per year to $129,000. "Funds from the new budget would cover new books, better computers for community use (an item Shepherd noted was much in need these days, especially for those seeking jobs), and some building maintenance not covered by the same fund that built the library building half a century ago."
Poughkeepsie Journal - 7.25.10 - "Cahill schedules office hours at district libraries" - "Assemblyman Kevin Cahill, D-Kingston, has scheduled office hours at libraries throughout the 101st Assembly District. Staff members will be available to answer questions, provide constituent services and discuss general concerns." Ulster County libraries include Phoenicia, Gardiner, Starr, and Elting.
Daily Freeman - 6.23.10 - By Patricia Doxsey - Ulster libraries were forced to cut subscriptions to subscriptions for Gale’s Home Improvement Collection, which aids homeowners with do-it-yourself projects, and Gale’s Vocations & Careers Collections, which provides county residents with job-seeking information. The cuts resulted from a 25% cut in funding proposed by the Ulster County Executive, Michael Hein, and approved by the Ulster County Legislature.
Daily Freeman - 6.15.10 - By Paul Kirby - "YMCA, Kingston Library will share Read & Write program" - The library will offer the space on Tuesdays and Thursdays with the YMCA offering space the rest of the week. The YMCA will be unable to offer the space in the fall.
Daily Freeman - 6.11.10 - By Ann Gibbons - "Kingston Library, artists free to interact, boxed in" - Artist Simon Draper has created a studio space in the Kingston Library garden. It will be a place the community to interact with art.
Daily Freeman - 6.2.10 - "Esopus Library tax appropriation approved" - "Voters approved Tuesday a $249,980 library tax appropriation for the fiscal year 2011 for the Town of Esopus Library. The appropriation passed 130-9. Elected to the library board of trustees were Michael W. Mabey, with 120 votes, K. Jane Mino, with 113 votes, and Peter J. McNierney, with 110 votes. Falling short was James J. Alecca, who tallied 28 votes."
Daily Freeman - 6.2.10 - by William J. Kemble - "Voters OK Kingston Library budget" - "Residents on Tuesday voted 134-80 in favor of a $788,118 Kingston Library budget carrying a 2.2 percent increase of $17,389. Winning three-year terms on the library board were Jane Eisenberg with 146 votes, Heather Ohlson with 145 votes, and incumbent David Rolfe with 136 votes. Rolfe was appointed to a board vacancy in 2009. Eisenberg and Ohlson will take over seats held by Jane Riley and Emilie Hauser."
Daily Freeman - 6.2.10 - by Ariel Zangla - "Saugerties library work on schedule for Feb. 1 opening" - The steel framework for the library has been erected, and contractors will start to fill it in. The library hopes to start moving furniture and materials into the building in December. Information about the project can be found online at http://www.thenewsaugertieslibrary.org.
Daily Freeman - 6.1.10 - By G. Modele Clarke - "LETTER: Obstinate stance by library board" - A community member protested the decision by the Kingston Library Board to eliminate the "Read and Write" program. The author described a board meeting in which about 50 children and adults came to support the program.
Daily Freeman - 5.29.10 - "Kingston Library vote set for Tuesday" - The June 1st budget vote is for the amount of $17,389 which is a 5% increase from last year. The increase will allow for a year-round teen program, more adult programming, more books, and better wireless connections.
Daily Freeman - 5.25.10 - "EDITORIAL: Spaced out" - The Kingston Library has asked that the "Read and Write" program that serves minority children, ages 4 to 14, no longer hold their program at the library. The author of the editorial believes that the library should have asked for more community input before making the decision.
Daily Freeman -5.7.10 - By Paul Kirby - "Tax levy up 5% in Kingston Library budget" - Voting will take place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the library on Franklin Street. There are three candidates for three seats. "According to Menard, the largest increase in the budget is for personnel costs, up by $6,400. Cost for materials and programs has also risen from $84,550 to $90,300, according to the proposed budget."
Letter to the Editor - Phoenicia Times / Olive Free Press 4.8.10 - "To celebrate Library Week, we would like to invite everyone in the community to attend an Afternoon Tea on Saturday, April 10th from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the library. Come and see what your library has to offer!"
Marlboro Library Press Release - The library updated its webpage with a montage of its latest fashion show. Susan Tumminia did all the organization, planning and decorating. http://marlborolibrary.org/
Daily Freeman - 1.13.10 - "Historical copies of Freeman available online" - by Kyle Wind - Issues of the Daily Freeman from 1903 to 1912 have been digitized and are now available online at www.hrvh.org.
Daily Freeman - 12.8.09 - "Hein's Ulster County budget stands" - by William J. Kemble - The Ulster County Legislature ultimately rejected any changes to the County Executive's budget in a 16-14 vote.
Daily Freeman - 12.3.09 - "Ulster County lawmakers tweak 2010 budget" - by Patricia Doxsey - In a series of votes over two days, Ulster County legislators restored funding to several agencies cut in County Executive Michael Hein's proposed budget. The cuts to libraries was reduced to 10% instead of the 25% proposed.
Associated Press - 12.1.09 - "Gates Foundation announces grants for libraries" - The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced a $3.4 million dollar grant to help libraries in five states improve broadband access. The following Ulster County libraries benefit from this grant: Kingston Public Library, Marlboro Free Library, Olive Free Library, Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library, Town of Esopus Port Ewen Library, Town of Ulster Public Library, and West Hurley Public Library.
Southern Ulster Times, Nov. 25, 2009, pages 1 - 2 - "Libraries affected by downturn" - The Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library's proposal to add $25,000 to their budget was rejected. The library is working on a smaller financing stream than in 2004 because of several cuts in state and county financing. In addition, the library will be matching a $10,000 main street initiative grant to install energy efficient windows and replace the porch. The Sarah Hull Hallock Library is one of many libraries in Ulster County which are facing a 25% cut in county funding. County Executive Mike Hein believes that the county legislature should be responding to the econonic downturn by making cutbacks.
New Paltz Times - 11.19.09 - by Mike Townshend and Megan Labrise - "Final numbers: County releases final election count for Gardiner, Marlborough and Lloyd" - A final count of the proposal to increase spending for the Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library's from $95,000 to $120,000 revealed that the proposal lost with a vote margin of 676-700. Both library officials and town officials will rework their respective library budgets. The library board will have to put cuts in place to balance their budget.
Hurley Library Budget Vote Passed with a vote margin of 36-0
Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library 414 Vote Failed with a vote margin of 676-700
Elting Memorial Library (New Paltz) 414 Vote Passed with a vote margin of 1131-661
New Paltz Times - 11.5.09 - by Erin Quinn - "The Road Ahead" - The Elting Memorial Library passed a 414 vote rather than accept the amount that the town decided to offer them.
Daily Freeman - 11.4.09 - "Complete list of winners in Tuesday's local elections" - "Proposition to approve $321,000 in town funding for the Elting Memorial Library: Passed"
Daily Freeman - 11.2.09 - by Ariel Zangla - "Saugerties library construction proceeds as contracts awarded" - "'Unfortunately, three low bidders were disqualified for failing to submit required bid documents with the submissions,' Serrano said." Adam Bunkoff, owner of Bunkoff General Contractors in Latham, claims that the library's bid documents were confusing and that eliminating the lowest bidders would cost the taxpayers more.
Daily Freeman - 10.17.09 - by Patricia Doxsey- "Ulster County agencies face funding cuts" - "In his proposed budget for 2010, County Executive Michael Hein decreased by 25 percent, to $521,100, the amount of county funding available for the 10 so-called "contract agencies" that receive county assistance."
New Paltz Times - 10.8.09 - Letters to the Editor - by James Cosgrove - The author objected to "to a statement made in your article covering the Elting Library's ballot approval (Book Money, Sept. 24) by an anonymous 'retired gentleman' who contended that all public library board members are 'notoriously poor at handling other people's money.'" The author has worked with library boards in Ulster County and reports that "these bodies are made up of concerned citizens trying to improve library service in their communities in a fiscally responsible manner."
Woodstock Times - 9.24.09 - by Erin Quinn - "Book money: Town of New Paltz approves library ballot measure" - The Elting Memorial Library will put up a proposition to increase the amount the library receives from the town from $176,000 to $351,000. The library requested the monies to support demands from the public for more materials and more services.
Rosendale Library Press Release - "Lost to History: the Story of the Trapps Mountain Hamlet" with Bob Larsen of the Mohonk Preserve - Wednesday, October 14 at 7pm Free - Learn about this isolated hamlet located in the Shawangunk cliffs, home to a hardscrabble, self-reliant community.
Daily Freeman - 9.5.09 - "Voters OK town of Ulster library budget" - "Voters in the town library district have approved a $262,000 budget for 2010 that will increase spending by 4.7 percent. The vote on Thursday in favor of the plan was 99-15...Elected to seats on the library board on Thursday were Walter Maxwell, with 97 votes; Jacqueline LaBarge, with 96; and Jeanette de Beaumont, with 93."
Woodstock Public Library Press Release - The 2010 library budget passed 601 yes/222 no.
Daily Freeman - 9.4.09 - "Library budgets OK'd in Rosendale, West Hurley" - "In Rosendale, a $241,350 spending plan for 2009-10 was approved 150-10, according to library board President Robert Sena... Re-elected to seats on the library board, Sena said, were Michael Hines with 149 votes, Toby Eisman with 143 and Craig Zisman with 139. They were the only candidates on the ballot. In West Hurley, voters approved a $171,475 budget for 2009-10 by a margin of 44-1, according to a press release from the library. Elected to seats on the West Hurley library board, according to the release, were Vasile Bizovi, Roberta Kiersted, Phil Meagher and Maayana “Marian” Howard. All four ran without opposition."
Saugerties Times - 9.3.09 - by Will Dendis - "Out of the Way and Abridged" - A new building area was constructed at the rear of the High Street headquarters for town government and police. The Saugerties Library supplied the money for materials and members of the town's recreation department supplied the labor. When the library moves back into its' new library building, the town tax assessor will have new offices.
Daily Freeman - 8.28.09 - "Town and library reach agreement" - A preliminary agreement has been reached between the Town of Rochester and the Stone Ridge Public Library. For an amount of $12,500, 250 households and 500 Rondout Valley school district students will receive services from the Stone Ridge Public Library.
Woodstock Times - 8.27.09 - by Brian Hollander - "Support the Library" - An editorial urging voters to approve the Woodstock Library's library budget on September 3 from noon to 10p.m.
Woodstock Times - 8.20.09 - by George Pattison - "Library unveils budget: Spending plan would restore services, also raise taxes" - "The Woodstock Public Library has proposed a budget of $511,777 for 2010, reflecting a tax increase of 11.6 percent, which would enable the library to resume buying books and providing services that were curtailed after voters rejected its spending plan in each of the last two years, forcing the library to operate on a budget that contained no increases from the 2007 level." The plan includes no salary increases for staff members. The library would be able to stay open one more evening a week, upgrade and increase the number of patron-access computers, and restore a children's services employee.
Daily Freeman - 8.18.09 - "Proposed Ulster library budget increases 4.7%" - "The bulk of the increase is for the cost of inter-library loan deliveries, utilities, and information and technology services, the press release said. Three people are running for three seats on the library board. They are Jeanette de Beaumont, Jacqueline LaBarge and Walter Maxwell." The vote is on September 3rd from 2 to 8p.m. at the Town of Ulster Library.
Woodstock Times - 8.13.09 - by Heather Plonchak - "Construction Zone: Work at library, other parts of town in full swing" - Town members can locate details of the library's traffic plan at http://www.thenewsaugertieslibrary.org The library board will move forward with an initial evaluation of vibration damage caused to neighboring homes.
Daily Freeman - 8.8.09 - "Saugerties library board candidates unopposed" - Sally Colclough and Myrna Sameth each are seeking new five-year terms on the board.
Daily Freeman - 8.5.09 - by Ariel Zangla - "Saugerties library tax impact 2 cents per $1,000 in budget proposal" - The library board made several cuts to library budget. The increases included in the budget are to open the new building and to maintain services. The budget referendum and Board of Trustees election will be held at the library from 4 to 8 p.m. Sept. 3. Absentee ballots will be available after Aug. 21.
Daily Freeman - 8.3.09 - by ARIEL ZANGLA - "Saugerties library gets easement for construction" - The Saugerties Board of Education granted the Saugerties library an easement to use part of the Cahill Elementary School property for staging.
Register Herald - 7.16.09 - "The libraries of the Mid-Hudson Library System announced the addition of the Mango Languages online language-learning system to the web sites of all local libraries in Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Putnam & Ulster counties. Mango is free of charge to all library patrons, and is a fun, fast and convenient solution for learning to speak a foreign language."
Blue Stone Press - 7.17.09 - by Sherry Chachkin - "Rochester group wants town to foot library card costs for 2010" - Three Town of Rochester women have formed the Rochester Citizens for Library Choice (RCLC) and are gathering signatures for a petition to present at the Town's Aug. 6 meeting. The Town has no library and is located between two library districts. The Town has contracted with the Ellenville Library to the south to provide library services but residents who live in the northern end of town would prefer to use the Stone Ridge Library and the petition ostensibly asks the Town to contract with Stone Ridge as well. (Details of the petition were not provided in the article). Stone Ridge Library charges a $50 non-resident fee for individuals who live outside of its district. The article contains a history of library funding in the area and contains responses from Rochester supervisors on library funding.
Stone Ridge Library Press Release - To celebrate our Centennial Year, we are inaugurating a local history lecture series and fittingly naming it after Julia Lawrence Hasbrouck whose family donated their family residence to be used as [our] library and whose Julia’s diaries and family portraits are treasured in our historic collection and archives.
New Paltz Times - 7.2.09 - by Mike Townshend - New Paltz's Elting Memorial Library will petition the public in July to set the town's level of funding at $321,000 annually. "The increased money would mostly cover basic expenses, but it would also allow for a small expansion in the book-buying budget and the staff would get a modest raise. The library would also be open for three hours each Sunday, if the measure succeeds at the polls."
Marlboro Library Press Release - The budget for 2009-2010 representing a 2.4% increase from last year's operating budget was passed on June 2 by a margin of 64 to 11.
Daily Freeman - 6.3.09 - By Paul Kirby - "Voters adopt Kingston Library budget, seat three trustees" - "City voters Tuesday night approved a library budget for 2010 that raises the library tax levy by 6.5 percent." Elected were incumbents Madeline Hoetger and newcomer Gary Loeffell, who each received 122 votes each, and newcomer Ursual Inghem, with 94 votes.
Daily Freeman - 5.27.09 - by Paul Kirby - "Kingston Library budget, trustee vote set for Tuesday" - "City voters will go to the polls next week to decide on a proposed library budget that raises the tax levy by 6.5 percent. Voters will also choose from a slate of five candidates to fill three seats on the Board of Trustees. The terms are three years. The election and budget vote will be held on Tuesday. Voters can cast their ballots between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. at the library at 55 Franklin St. in Midtown. "
Daily Freeman - 5.11.09 - by Ariel Zangla - "Saugerties library expansion work near" - Two houses will be raised this weekend to make room for the library expansion. The library will be closed from June 1-13 for the move and reopen at its temporary quarters at Town Hall on High Streeton June 15. The current hours of operation will be maintained, Serrano said.
Rosendale Press Release - "On Fateful Waters: Where New Worlds Meet Old Ambitions” NY Council for the Humanities Speaker, Dr. Robert Spiegelman - Wednesday, April 8 at 7pm/ Free - In concert with the 400th Anniversary Celebration of the “founding “ of the Hudson River, this lecture explores the contributions of explorers Henry Hudson, Samuel de Champlain and inventor Robert Fulton.
Daily Freeman - 2.22.09 - By Kyle Wind - "In tough economic times, more people turning to libraries" - Increasing numbers of people are registering for library cards. Free services include borrowing materials, storyhours, special programs, and computer use. Gov. David Paterson’s proposed state budget for 2009-10 calls for an 18 percent reduction in library aid, which would increase the cost to local libraries for loans between libraries, consulting, continuing education for staff members and coordination of summer reading programs.
Hudson Valley Magazine - March 2009 - By: Jessica Friedlander - "Kings of the Pin" - Seniors have formed bowling leagues to use the Nintendo Wii at the Marlboro Library. "So what attracts senior citizens to a kid’s game? 'For the most part,' says Holt, 'and for seniors especially, it’s all about getting some exercise with a bunch of wonderful people, and having some fun.' "
New Paltz Times - 2.5.09 - By Dan Barton - "Lean on the library: Institutions can help people save money" - As econonomic times become leaner, library usage goes up. In additional to books, libraries now have movies to loan, wireless Internet access, job-searching, and children's programming.
Poughkeepsie Journal 2.11.09 - by Alyssa Jung - The Elting Memorial Library is celebratings its 100th year. The library is planning events for its anniversary year. In 2006, the library underwent an expansion project which tripled its size. Currently, the library is experiencing higher usage due to the economic slowdown.
Daily Freeman - 2.6.09 - by Kyle Wind - "Saugerties library to host 'Featured Teacher Story Hour'" - More than 30 teachers, teacher assistants, and nurses from schools all over the district have volunteered to read to children from 1 to 2pm on Saturdays. The program is designed to encourage literacy.
Gardiner Library Press Release - The Gardiner Library joins the Town of Esopus Library and the Marlboro Free Library in offering library hours seven days per week.
Stone Ridge Library Press Release - "Free Book Discussion Series Offered at the the Stone Ridge Library" - In a unique collaboration, the New York Council for the Humanities has joined forces with the Stone Ridge Library to offer Reading Between the Lines: Rethinking Religiion: Recent Women’s Novels and American Identity, a monthly reading and discussion series that will meet on the second Wednesday of February (11), March (11), April (15) and May (13) 2009. The sessions will meet at 4 pm in the Library’s Reference Room.
Ulster County Press - January 21, 2009 - "Libraries seek state funding restored" - Noting that public library use increases during tough economic times, the New York Library Association (NYLA) called upon the State Legislature and Governor to reach an agreement to restore $5 million in library aid, so libraries can continue to offer the services and reading materials to the neediest in our communities. Borges went on to say that a majority of New Yorkers support continued increases in state aid for libraries despite uncertain economic times. "In fact, 82 percent of New Yorkers support more state funding for purchasing more and updated library books," he said.
Ulster County Press - January 21, 2009 - "Library now open Sundays" - The Esopus Library and the Marlboro Library are open Sundays. The new hours at the Esopus Library are in response to a community response to hard economic times.
Daily Freeman - 1.19.09 - "Tax preparation help is offered in Ulster County" - AARP is offering tax help for people with low to moderate income at several local area libraries.
Daily Freeman - 1.9.09 - by William J. Kemble - "Bookstore lends a hand to library" - Woodstock patrons who wished to show their support for the Woodstock Library purchased books at the Golden Notebook to donate to the library.
Daily Freeman - 1.7.09 - "Esopus Library opens on Sundays" - "The Town of Esopus Library is now open from 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays, thanks to an increase in county funding and voter support."
Daily Freeman - 12.22.08 - "Community Foundation gives out $15,000 in grants" - The Kingston Library was one of ten agencies that received a grant from the Ulster County Community Foundation. The library received "$750 for the purchase of a fax machine and printer that will provide expanded use of public access computers."
Daily Freeman - 12.16.08 - by Joseph Kovacs - Letters to the Editor: "Libraries are precious resources" - Mr. Kovacs describes how as a student in Communist Hungary he could only find works not circumscribed by the government was in a library. He finds the public libraries in the United States a precious resource.
Daily Freeman - 11.18.08 - by Patricia Doxsey - "Ulster County Legislature committee boosts spending in 2009 budget" - The Ways & Means Committee has proposed that the 2008 budget figure of $75,000 be increased by $10,000 for budget year 2009 for Ulster County Libraries.
Ulster Press - 11.12.08 - "Library to Introduce 'Game Night' for Teens, Tweens" - Elting Memorial Library will participate in National Gaming Day.
Ulster Press - 11.12.08 - "Library Attracts Record Number of New Cardholders" - Following the re-opening of the Gardiner Library on October 25, ten new residents a day are getting library cards.
Ulster Press - 11.12.08 - By Marilyn Fino - "Libraries Are the Heart of the Community" - Sarah Hall Hallock Free Library makes an effort to meet the needs of its community with technology offerings and events.
Daily Freeman - 11.2.08 - By William J. Kemble - "New Paltz library officials acknowledge ramp problem, seek more money" - At a recent New Paltz Town Board Meeting, officials of the Elting Library recognized the need for a shallower incline or a gate on a ramp installed for handicap access. The ramp does, however, meet legal requirements and the library doesn't have the funds to repair it. The library requested increase that the town's contributions to the library increase from $170,000 to $250,000 in 2009 to cover operating expenses. The percentage of funding contributed to the library by the town is low compared to that paid by other municipalities in New York State.
Town of Esopus Library Press Release - The Town of Esopus Library was approved for a 400 Explore NY Mini Grant. The funds will be used to prepare a month long John Burroughs Exhibit in the Duck Pond Gallery and for programs offered in July '09.
Ulster County Press - 9.17.08 Kelly Tomaseski - "Battle of the Books 2008 was again a big success" - Teens from five libraries participated in a contest answering trivia questions about ten books. In addition to being exposed to great literature, the teens learned great social skills, good sportsmanship, and had a great time.
Poughkeepsie Journal - 9.19.08 - "Saugerties library on historic wish list" - The New York State Board for Historic Preservation has recommended that the Saugerties Library be added to the list of properties on the to the State and National Registers of Historic Places. "Listing will make them eligible for various public preservation programs and services, such as matching state grants and federal historic rehabilitation tax credits."
Woodstock Times Editorial - 9.11.08 - by Brian Hollander - "Societal relevance - what's in a book?" - Mr. Hollander expresses his hope that the Woodstock Library budget defeat was a result of dissatisfaction with last year's expensive renovation proposal instead of a decrease in the amount that people read.
Daily Freeman - 9.11.08 - Ariel Zangla - "Saugerties voters OK library budget" - The Saugerties $482,888 2009 library budget was approved 246 yes to 76 no. 3 trustees were elected: Shirley McLaren (5 yrs.), Janet Carter (5 yrs.), and Kenneth Goldberg (2 yrs.).
Woodstock Times - 9.4.08 - by Brian Hollander Editorial - "With all deliberate speed" - The editor received information from the Woodstock and the West Hurley Public Libraries less than two weeks before an election. This did not give his newspaper enough time to publish information.
Daily Freeman - 9.5.08 - "Voters in Woodstock reject library budget" - by William J. Kemble - "Voters in the Woodstock Library District have rejected a proposed $537,773 budget for 2009." "Elected to five-year terms on the library board were incumbent Cassia Berman, with 285 votes, and Elaine Hammond, with 278. Two-year board seats were won by incumbent Will Nixon, with 273 votes, and incumbent Katryna Barber, with 264."
Daily Freeman - 9.6.08 - "Town of Ulster voters reject library budget, oust board president" by Paul Kirby - "The proposed $270,279 budget for 2009 was voted down by an 11-vote margin, 164-153." Three people were elected: Cynthia Wadnola, Ruth Quick, and Dorothy Carbo.
Daily Freeman - 9.5.08 - "Library budgets OK'd in Rosendale, West Hurley" - The Rosendale $243,800 budget was approved 192-42 and four trustees were re-elected. In West Hurley, the $168,025 budget was approved 76-13. Four trustees were elected.
Daily Freeman - 9.2.08 - "Library election, budget vote is Thursday" - Four candidates are running for five board positions. Polls will be open on September 4 from 5-10pm in the library. "The West Hurley Library Board proposes an operating budget of $168,025 for the 2009 financial year. The tax levy for this budget increases by 4.9 percent ... The owners of a $200,000 home would expect to see an increase of about $2.85 in their taxes, according to library officials. "
Daily Freeman - 8.28.08 - "Ulster library budget, board seats up for vote next week" - Polls will be open on September 4 from 2-8pm in the library. "The proposed $270,279 budget is $19,452, or 7.8 percent, larger than the library's 2008 spending plan $250,827. Under the proposal, an Ulster homeowner with a property assessed at $100,000 would pay $25.54 in library taxes next year compared to $23.93 this year."
Woodstock Times - 8.28.08 - by Brian Hollander - "Vote in favor of the Library budget" - An editorial recommends supporting the library budget increase because it will restore the book budget. The budget was voted down last year along with the renovation plan.
Woodstock Times - 8.28.08 - by George Pattison - "Balancing the books" - Polls will be open on September 4 from 12-10pm in the library.
Daily Freeman - 8.29.08 - "Rosendale library vote set for next week" - Polls will be open September 4 from 11-8 p.m. "The proposed operating budget for 2009 is $243,800, with $201,800 to be raised through property taxes. The tax levy would be $21,600 more than what was raised in 2008, a 12 percent increase. The tax increase a Rosendale resident with a home assessed at $100,000 would be $4.41 for the year."
Saugerties Times - 8.28.08 - by Heather Plonchak - "Library Vote Next Week" - Polls will be open September 4 from 4-8 p.m. to decide on 3 seats and a proposed library budget.
Daily Freeman - 8.17.08 - By Ariel Zangla - "Four candidates vying for 3 seats on Saugerties library board" - The library budget and trustee vote for the Saugerties Library will take place on September 4th in the library. Four candidates are running for three positions. "The proposed budget increases spending by $62,919, or 14.9 percent, over the current budget of $419,969. Library Director Jessica Serrano said the owner of a home assessed at $200,000 would pay an additional $10 a year for library services under the proposal."
Rosendale Library Press Release - The Rosendale Library is celebrating its 50th Birthday, with a party at the Rosendale Community Center, Saturday, September 13 from 1pm -3pm. The event is free and is for the whole family There will be ice cream, cake and drinks along with entertainment by Grenidilla. A raffle drawing will also be held.
Woodstock Times - 8.21.08 - "An open book: Woodstock library unveils budget for September 4 vote" by George Pattison - Voting on the budget and for four seats on the library district's 11-member board of trustees will take place from noon to 10 p.m. on Thursday, September 4, in the library, at 5 Library Lane. The library's proposed 2009 budget of $537,772 would include increases for utilities and staff and would make up for the budget defeat of last year.
Daily Freeman - 8.19.08 - "Library budget would hike tax levy 17.8%" by By William J. Kemble - Article includes details of the spending increase as well as the history of the 2007 vote.
Ulster County Press - August 6, 2008, pg. B3 - "Library beefs up online presence: Live Homework Help, a free service to all library patrons, expands grade levels" - The Plattekill Library offers a service in which anyone with a library card may log-on to http://plattekill.lib.ny.us, and then enter an Online Classroom where a certified subject expert tutor will work with you in a chat window, on a drawing board, and through website and file sharing, to resolve your educational challenge.
Town of Ulster Library Press Release - Town of Ulster Public Library - Come Celebrate with us. 5th anniversary at our new facility. Saturday, August 30, 2008. 11:00 am-2:00pm. Refreshments. Cake cutting at 1:00pm
Stone Ridge Library Press Release - The budget vote passed 52 yes 3 no and Suzanne Hauspurg and Jim Hoover were re-elected to the Board.
Daily Freeman - 8.3.08 - "A real page-turner" By Rochelle Riservato - Stone House Day (second Saturday of August) marks the 50th anniversary of the Hurley Library. The article discusses the founding of the library as well as its current mission.
Poughkeepsie Journal - 7.30.08 - Letters to the Editor: "Library head clarifies statistic in Journal story": The director of the Marlboro Library clarified a statistic which reported that the traffic for the library had decreased 47% from 2002 to 2006. The decrease was attributable to a change in statistical calculations than the actual traffic.
Daily Freeman - 7.29.08 - "Hurley Library building may go to district" By William J. Kemble: The transfer of library building ownership from the town to the library will be discussed at an August 7 board meeting.
Daily Freeman - 7.25.08 - "Stone Ridge Library vote set for Aug. 11 ": "In a press release announcing the election, library officials said the proposed spending plan is $217,642, a 14.8 increase over the $189,567 budget of 2006, the most recent year in which an increase was sought." Reasons for the increases including rising fuel costs, the need for a new circulation clerk, and decreasing income from their endowment. "Candidates for the two four-year trustee seats are incumbents Hauspurg and Jim Hoover and challenger Alan Marker."
Poughkeepsie Journal - 7.22.08 - By Michael Valkys: "Local libraries thriving in digital age ": In Dutchess and Ulster counties, nearly every library reported increases in circulation and visits from 2002 to 2006. Increases are attributed to a variety of materials, including MP3s, DVDs,and digital books. Online catalogs which make ordering information easier and Internet access computers have also contributed to the trend.
Poughkeepsie Journal - 7.22.08 - By Ledyard King and Robert Benincasa: "Free services help attract patrons to libraries": Visits to libraries have increased as libraries have become community centers with classes for all ages and new digital collections.
The Journal News' Book By Book Blog [http://books.lohudblogs.com[ ): "July 8 - Cat libraries": In an article about animals in libraries, teh Phoenicia Library is mentioned as allowing dogs inside, well-behaved, leashed or carried ones, that is. The library sells greeting cards (as a fundraiser) with dogs in library/reading settings.
Marlboro Library Press Release: Voters in the Marlboro School District approved the $782,606 Marlboro Library budget for 2008-2009 by 84-5. Elected to the board was Celie Cook with 75 votes.
Daily Freeman - 6.3.08 - "Kingston, Esopus voters approve library budgets": In Kingston, the $718,040 budget for 2009 was approved, 170-100. Elected without opposition to three seats on Kingston's library board were Edwin Pell, Susan Simek and John Werbalowsky. In Esopus, a proposed $231,900 library budget was approved, 111-21. Elected to the board were MaryBeth Rogers (118 votes), Earl Johnson (104) and Stephen C. Bohn Jr. (88). Unsuccessful in his bid for a board seat was James Alecca, with 44 votes.
Daily Freeman - 5.29.08 - By Paul Kirby: "Kingston Library budget would raise tax collections by 12%": This includes $460,676 in personnel costs, $77,900 for materials and programs, $31,000 for fuel and utility cost, and the remainder going towards building repairs, insurance, postage and furniture. The ballot also will have three unopposed candidates running for three seats on the library board.
Southern Ulster - Times 5.7.08 - By Mark Reynolds: "Library to demolish satellite building": The Marlboro Public Library will demolish a building on adjoining property owned by the library. The land may be needed in the future for the library to expand.
Milton Library Press Release: Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library at 56 Main Street in Milton is inviting all crafters to a jewelry-making and knitting workshop on Tuesday, May 20 at 7 pm in the Library community room.
Daily Freeman - 5.7.08 - By Ariel Zangla: "Saugerties voters OK library expansion": A $7 million dollar referendum was approved, 1,272-812, to improve and expand the library facility. Construction will begin in the spring and take about a year to complete.
Saugerties Times - 5.1.08 - by Will Dendis: "Yay for the New Library": Mr. Dendis supports the library expansion as a good investment and a matter of civic pride.
Ulster County Press - 4.16.08 - Guest Column by Jim Cosgrove: "Libraries’ 21st Century Goal: Tame the Internet": The Ulster County InfoPortal (ulsterlibraries.org) offers reference resources to home users over the Internet. Products include the Historical New York Times, HeritageQuestOnline, Rosetta Stone language learning software, Gale Educational and Testing product, NetLibrary downloadable audiobooks, and TumbleBooks.
Daily Freeman - 4.29.08: "Stone Ridge Library hires architect for restoration": "The Board of Trustees of the Stone Ridge Library has hired Paul Mays of the architectural firm of Butler, Rowland and Mays to prepare a master plan for the restoration of the library's two historic buildings and design probable additional space."
Woodstock Times 4.24.08 by Jesse J. Smith: "Calling all teens:
New library director hopes to attract youth with technology, programs": Margie Menard plans to update the Kingston Library's teen book collection as well as offer more programming for this demographic. She will continue efforts to replace the current fence with a new one by working with the Friends of the Library.
Highland Public Library Press Release: Highland's budget vote was held on 4/23/08. The budget passed 41-3. Susan Bacchi was reelected to a 5 year term.
Ulster County Press 4.2.08 Robert Ford: "The new information center: Libraries play an even more vital role during difficult economic times": During tough economic times, libraries play an important role in helping patrons search for jobs, borrowing materials, and reading newspapers.
Milton Library Press Release: "Roadshow at the Milton Library on April 15, 2008": Milton resident, Stu Greenzang, owner of the antiques business The Prince of Whatever's Left, will be presenting a program on antiques and collectibles at the Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library on Wednesday, April 30, at 7pm in the library community room. He will be sharing his knowledge of what is hot and what is not in the antiques business. Participants are welcome to bring questions or a piece to discuss.
New York Times 4.20.08 by Lisa W. Foderaro: "he Librarians Call It an Anomaly (It Wasn’t Rattling Chains)": A surveillance tape at the New Paltz Library picked up an "anomaly" about a week before Halloween. The image is available for viewing on YouTube.com.
Saugerties Times 4.17.08 by Heather Plonchak: "Library proposal presented at scoping session in advance of May 7 referendum": Polls will be open at the library from noon to 9 p.m. on May 7 to vote upon a proposed $6.995 million bond referendum. 'The board has identified the top four items on the community's wish list as having the library remain in its current location, providing a public meeting space, expanding the collection of available materials, and making the building handicapped accessible in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.'
Daily Freeman 4.16.08 by Robert M. Miraldi: "Kingston Library has new director": "The Kingston Library has named Margie Menard as its new director. Menard succeeds Bruce George, who left for a similar position at a Pennsylvania library."
Saugerties Times Editorial 4.10.08 by Will Dendis: "Feeling the pinch": Mr. Dendis believes that the current recession will make voters scrutinize carefully any plan calling for an increase in taxation. This includes the library renovation/expansion bond vote which will be disussed at the senior center April 14 at 7 p.m.
Daily Freeman 4.13.08 by Ariel Zangla: "Saugerties Library sells expansion project": A proposed $6.99 million renovation and expansion project will add 8,365 square feet to the library, bringing its total space to 13,162 square feet. The expanded facility will include a public meeting place, an expanded media collection, a teen area, allow programs to be held on site, and permit the library to expand its collection.
Rosendale Library Press Release: "The Friends of the Rosendale Library is presenting an art workshop for adults and children with photographer and multi-media artist Jone Miller. Participants in the workshop, Images from the Sun, will create photograms using special paper and a variety of objects. The workshop will be held at the Rosendale Library (Main Street Rosendale) on May 31 and June 14 from 12:30 - 3:00 pm."
Gazette Advertiser 4.10.08: "Library to celebrate 100 years": "The Morton Memorial Library and Community House centennial celebration, slated for Saturday, May 24, will feature a street fair, a light supper, entertainment, an art auction, silent auction and more. The purpose of the event, in part, is to celebrate Levi Morton, the former Rhinecliff resident, U.S. vice president, New York governor and senator, who, in his day, was very generous to the people of the hamlet."
Saugerties Post Star 3.27.08: "Unveiling the Future, Proposed 21st Century Library": The Saugerties Library held the first community-wide presentation of the new building’s plans on Thursday, March 27th. If funded, the present Saugerties Public Library will be renovated and an additional approximate 8,365 sq. ft. will be built to the right of the present building on Washington Ave. The $6.995 million bond referendum vote will take place at the Library on Wednesday, May 7th from noon to 9 p.m. Absentee ballots are available by contacting the library at (845) 246-4317. For up-to-date information about the project, go to www.thenewsaugertieslibrary.org.
Rosendale Library Press Release: The Friends of the Rosendale Library presents Steve Clorfeine: Poetry Reading of Works on Friday May 16, 2008, 7pm - 8:30 pm at the Rosendale Café (434 Main St. Rosendale). . Suggested donation is $5.
Times Herald-Record 3.25.08 By Jeremiah Horrigan: "Mystery haunts Elting Library – ‘Ghost caught on videotape’": A video camera recorded a smudge which some believe to be supernatural in origin.
Southern Ulster Times 3.12.08 by Elizabeth Werlau: "Recycled fashion hits the runway in Marlboro": Nine Marlboro teenagers designed and modeled fashions made of commonly disposed of items such as bubble wrap, computer disks, old denim jeans and even flower seeds. Students from Marist College’s Fashion program volunteered their time to help dress the models, while Toni Kulpinski of Revelation Beauty Spa and Tina Valentino provided complementary hair styling and makeup for the event.
Southern Ulster Times 3.12.08: "Marlboro Free Library Upgrades its Computer Network": The Marlboro Free Library hired DC Network Solutions to install a system which will a network solution that would minimize downtime, decrease maintenance time and expenses, enhance network security, and, most importantly, be compatible with the system utilized by the Mid Hudson Library System to which they belong. The system utilized a server which centrally administers the network.
Rosendale Library Press Release: Rosendale Library is proud to present "Celebration of the Arts", a series of hands-on workshops presented by pioneers in the fields of writing, photography and bookbinding. These programs will be offered as part of the 50th Anniversary festivities for the Rosendale Public Library, and are open to all ages. his project is made possible in part through a grant from the Dutchess County Arts Council, administrator of public funds through NYSCA’s Decentralization Program. For information call the library at 845 658-9013.
Rosendale Library Press Release: Bobbi Katz, children's picture book and poetry author, will offer a workshop at the Rosendale Youth Center Saturday on April 12, 2008, 10:30 am - 12. Once Around the Sun and Beyond for children ages 6 - 10 yrs. old. Registration and payment of fee ($5) is required by March 29.
Phoenicia Times 2.28.08: "Letter to the Editor": The letter discusses how the Phoenicia Library offers services as an "information resource, cultural center and vital community space." Joining the Friends of the Phoenicia Library can help support the fundraising efforts for a new library building.
Hudson Register Star 2.11.08: "Local Libraries receive money for computers": Several libraries in Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Putnam and part of Ulster counties will be receiving grant money totaling $164,302 for new computers from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation."
Daily Freeman 2.1.08: "More than child's play": The Marlboro Library sponsors a senior bowling league for seniors using the Wii gaming system. The Sarah Hull Hallock Free Library in Milton has seniors who play several sport games on the Wii system. The seniors report that they are having a good time and getting some exercise.
Saugerties Times 1.10.08: "Community-Minded Library director discusses first six months on the job; expresses high hopes for future": Saugerties Public Library Director, After six months on the job, Saugerties Library director, Jessica Serrano, keeps in touch with the community. The Saugeries Library has plans to expand their programming for elementary children, teens, and adults. A renovation/expansion project would enable the library to provide better services.
Ulster County Press 1.16.08: The Color of Art": Ellenville Public Library & Museum honors Black History Month with a special art exhibit by a local artist.
Daily Freeman 1.11.08: "Library belongs to town after all, remains insured": Research by the incoming Pine Hill Town Board confirmed that the town owns the library. The town will therefore continue to insure the building.
Daily Freeman 12.30.07: "Cash-strapped library may be facing $9,000 insurance bill": Morton Memorial Library in Pine Hill faces a $9000 insurance bill after officials learned that the building is not owned by the town as previously thought.
Poughkeepsie Journal 12.17.07: "Stone Ridge Library seeks donation": The Stone Ridge Library Foundation is partnering with the Ulster County Community Foundation to raise money to renovate the library's historic buildings.
Daily Freeman 12.14.07: "Town of Ulster rejects challenge to library election": The Ulster Town Board has rejected a request by two Town of Ulster Library trustees to overturn the results of the Sept. 6 board election.
Daily Freeman 11.30.07: "Successful candidates say library election was invalid": Two board members have put forward a resolution to invalidate the results of the September 6 library election. Simmons, the current board president claims the division in the board stems from financial mistakes made by former board members.
Southern Ulster Times 11.21.07: "Honor our local treasures and help build a better town" by Steve Gugliociello: Mr. Gugliociello favorably reports how useful and well kept the resources were at the Marlboro Library.
Daily Freeman 11.18.07: "Web reveals family ties": Libraries in Ulster County now offer access from home to HeritageQuest. This is a great tool for geneologists doing research.
Times Herald Record 11.15.17: "Ulster contract agencies beg for bucks": Ulster County libraries requested that the Ulster County Legislature retain funding for Ulster County libaries. The libraries revealed the Ulster County Infoportal. Retired Senior Volunteers Program and Special Advocates spokesman also requested funding.
Daily Freeman 10.26.07: "Hurley voters OK 2008 library budget": The 2008 budget was approved for the Hurley Library. Re-elected to four-year terms on the board, without opposition, were Linda Katt and Harvey Kronick.
Daily Freeman 10.16.07: "Mid-Hudson kids have their own library catalog": Children from preschool to age 10 now have the ability to search a separate library catalog. In this catalog, kids can identify favorites and search through others selections.
Ulster County Press 10.30.07: "Legislative funds to assist Ulster libraries": Monies from the Ulster County Legislature will be used to purchase annual subscriptions to the Historical New York Times, HeritageQuestOnline and NetLibrary downloadable audiobooks. These will all be available from an Internet connection from home. All that is required is a valid library card. The knowledge products will be unveiled at the Association’s dinner meeting at the Gilded Otter from 6 to 9 pm on Monday, October 15.
New Paltz Times Article 10.11.2007: "Valuable assets: Legislative funds to assist all Ulster libraries with online knowledge products." p.19.
Ulster County Press Article 10.24.2007: by Robert Ford "Shovels in: Town breaks ground for new public library in Gardiner."
Kingston Times Article 10.4.2007: "Valuable assets: Legislative funds to assist all Ulster libraries with online knowledge products." p.24
Ulster County Press Article 10.3.2007: "Legislative funds to assist all Ulster libraries." Page one press release concerning expenditure of 2007 funds."
Ulster County Press Article 9.26.2007: "Car show to benefit library."Article on event to benefit Gardiner Library expansion.
Daily Freeman Editorials 9.15.07: "Definitive judgment": An editorial recommending that the Woodstock library trustees open a dialogue with the residents of Woodstock to plans for a new library.
Daily Freeman Article 9.11.07: by William J. Kemble: "Defeat sets library budget back to 2007": A summary of the unsuccessful September 2007 Woodstock Library budget vote results in which the Woodstock Library must operate at its 2007 spending levels. The Woodstock Library proposed the spending plan to alleviate a space crisis created by a lack of storage and growing demands for service.
Daily Freeman Article 9.8.07: by Tom Wakeman, "Three other library budgets win support": A summary of the successful budget votes for Rosendale, Saugerties, and West Hurley.
Daily Freeman Article 9.8.07: by Paul Kirby, "Ulster voters OK library budget, but questions linger over election" : Town of Ulster Library budget passes, but recount required for trustee elections.
Daily Freeman Atricle 9.7.07: by William J. Kemble, "Woodstock Library budget fails": Woodstock 2008 budget and building renovation plan voted down.
Daily Freeman Article 9.7.07: "Recount needed in town of Ulster library vote": Summary of the Town of Ulster Public Library vote in which a recount of ballots was planned.
Daily Freeman Article 9.5.07: by William J. Kemble, "Woodstock residents to vote on $1.14 million library budget": The Woodstock Library proposed a budget in which there would be a $1.09 million tax levy carrying a 160.31 percent increase of $671,207. The site plans for the library renovation would add 4,012 square feet to the existing 7,841 square foot library. Included would be a second floor and a small building.
Daily Freeman Article 9.5.07: by Paul Kirby, "Proposed library budget goes to Ulster voters on Thursday": Notice and summary of Town of Ulster Library's 2008 budget vote and trustee elections.The library's proposed budget for 2007-08 totals $250,827. Seven candidates are vying for six seats.
Woodstock Times Article 8.30.07: by Brian Hollander, "Read this...": Notice and summary of vote for the Woodstock Library's 2008 budget and building renovation plan.
Woodstock Times Editorial 8.25.07: "Vote yes...on library budget": The editorial proposes that Ulster County residents should seek to spend their money more wisely than on a the Ulster County jail and support a library which would offer better shared services.
Woodstock Times 8.23.07: by Brian Hollander, "Sticker shock": Library representatives state that the library expansion would cost about $2.73/week more for a median priced home. Others think that the tax increase is too high.
Daily Freeman Article 8.16.07: by William J. Kemble, "Woodstock library budget concerns town supervisor": The Woodstock Town Supervisor cautioned that the increases proposed by the Woodstock Library's budget do not included town increases. A library trustee stated that the proposed renovation/expansion plan would ease crowding, add a public meeting room, improve computer systems, and install a geothermal heating system.
Kingston Times Article 7.26.07: "Checkmate: Kingston Library offers chess lessons for kids of all skill levels": Brief article with accompanying photos on cover and page 11.
Kingston Times Article 7.5.07: by Margie Menard. Column: The Public Reading Room. "Why not take your library along on vacation?" Article promoting online library resources.
Ulster County Press Article 6.27.2007: by Robert Ford, "Library receives needed financing for construction." Key Bank agrees to finance the Gardiner Library building project. Article with photo showing Board President, Barbara Sides holding rendering of new building.
Ulster County Press Article 6.27.2007: "Searching for the next chess master: Library offers Chess for Kids program throughout summer." Brief article and photo page B3.