Library's proposed budget maintains services

Budget hearing scheduled for May 7

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The East Meadow Public Library’ proposed 2014-15 budget will maintain services, according to Director Carol Probeyahn. The $7,054,158 proposal is a 1.71 percent increase from this year. About $6.7 million would be raised by district taxpayers — a 1.98 percent increase.

The tax levy increase falls within the state tax cap legislation, and the proposal will require a simple majority approval on May 20.

Probeyhan said the library was able to maintain programs and services because of an employee retirement and cost-saving improvements to the building’s infrastructure.

A full-time employee will be replaced by a part-time worker, Probeyahn said, saving the library from providing benefits.

Energy-saving initiatives also helped free up money. Recently, library officials replaced a 50-ton chiller with smaller air conditioning equipment. “We’ve realized such a saving,” Probeyahn said. “It’s wonderful.”

Probeyahn said that recent upkeep in maintenance has also reduced the building’s oil usage, despite the product’s rising cost. “If we can make this building operate as efficiently as possible,” she said, “then that allows us to utilize the money in areas where our patrons will see a direct benefit.”

The director added that library officials would continue to improve technology within the building, but in a cost-efficient manner. Recently, they purchased a large touch screen, allowing patrons to access the library’s eBook and audio book collection. It will soon be placed in front of the media department.

Probeyahn said library officials are looking into purchasing self-checkout units in the near future.

On Wednesday, May 7, the library will host a budget hearing at 8 p.m., where residents can voice their own recommendations.