In the midst of all the chaos in the news cycle, it’s worth noting what didn’t happen this week: a budget election vote for an increase in funds to operate the John Jermain Memorial Library.
In recognition of the economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 virus, the board of the library opted not to seek the customary incremental increase in taxpayer funds.
This, despite the fact that the library has seen a significant increase in the need for its services. Help for parents who are suddenly home school teachers. Job search assistance for the newly unemployed. A surge in virtual book checkouts during the shutdown. Extra outreach to homebound seniors. Increased support for bilingual learners and their families. And undying enthusiasm for Friday night (online) trivia!
The library usually seeks a roughly 2 percent increase in funding from taxpayers in the Sag Harbor School District. This year, however, the board chose to hold funding steady — and to forgo the expense of the annual vote.
The John Jermain Memorial Library is proud to be a part of this vibrant community and to expand our support in this uncertain time.
Susan D. Edwards
President
John Jermain Memorial Library Board of Trustees
Sag Harbor
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