Voters Approve a 30% Increase for the Troy Public Library in New York
EveryLibrary was proud to provide support to the Troy Library during its campaign.
Troy residents have approved the Troy Public Library’s proposed 2026 budget with overwhelming support. Final vote totals will be available by the end of the week but as of this writing, 77% voted yes - 1,074 yes votes to 309 no votes.
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The budget includes the creation of an $80,000 Capital Project Fund, a 25% increase in employer healthcare contributions, and a 9% salary increase for newly unionized employees. While a 30% increase can sound steep at first glance, the actual cost for a Troy homeowner with a $150,000 property is modest: about $38 a year, or just over $3 a month.
With the new funding in place, the library is able to keep the Lansingburgh branch open, complete some building maintenance projects, and plans to expand its community engagement efforts, including the hiring of a public information officer.
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A FAST-PACED CAMPAIGN
The campaign leading up to the vote lasted just five weeks. EveryLibrary provided ongoing support during that time, helping the library and its partners craft a clear information campaign. Outreach included posting budget details on the library’s website, hosting information sessions, and sharing updates through social media.
The Vote Yes campaign was spearheaded by Workers United and the Troy Area Labor Council, as well as the Friends of the Troy Public Library. With a short runway, advocates quickly mobilized to ensure residents were informed and energized. Tactics included: emailing Friends’ members, donors, and community partners, a dedicated day of canvassing, calling and texting supporters and voters, flooding social media with positive stories and public endorsements of the library.
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Library Executive Director, Timothy Furgal credited the campaign’s success to the rapid and coordinated effort with support from EveryLibrary: “Your advice to push out positive stories, use the Did You Know framework, and engage our base on social media channels saved the vote. I’m very grateful for all the help and support you gave us with such a short runway.”
EveryLibrary remains dedicated to helping libraries navigate the ballot box through expert training, advocacy, and strategic support - ensuring every community can stand up for the funding and resources their libraries deserve. This work is only possible thanks to the generosity of our donors.
If you believe in the impact of libraries and want to be part of the movement, we invite you to contribute. Your support fuels this essential work for libraries across the nation. Visit everylibrary.org/donate to make your gift today.