Seaford Public Library Budget Vote On Tap

 Next week Seaford residents will head to the polls to cast their votes on the proposed budget.

The Seaford Public Library Board of Trustees adopted a spending plan that represents a 3.77 percent increase over the current budget. Library officials estimate that if the budget is approved it would amount to an increase of 92 cents a month or $11.05 a year for the average Seaford homeowner. Seaford residents will decide whether to approve the budget during the April 6 vote.

“The Board is extremely appreciative of the support of the entire community in the past,” said Seaford Public Library president Peter J. Ruffner. “This budget will allow the library to continue its service mission to Seaford residents and businesses.”

Trustee Stephen Gaughran noted that audio books and e-books are becoming increasingly popular at the library in addition to the regular books, DVD movies and music CDs. Also accessible from the library’s website is “Live Homework Help,” which serves as a resource for students at various educational levels. The library also offers a collection of current magazines, newspapers and computers and for the last two years has offered free family passes to area museums as part of its Museum Pass Program.

The budget will also include funding for the library’s many children-oriented events such as story hours, crafts, magic shows, music, puppet shows and science programs. Young adults are also offered programs throughout the year in areas such as boating, babysitting preparation, meditation, cooking and entrepreneurship. Some of the adult programs offered include hands-on computer workshops, Zumba classes, film screenings, defensive driving and AARP classes, blood drives, tax assistance and job searching.

“Showings of recently released films are rapidly growing in popularity,” said Seaford Public Library Trustee Eileen Montalbano who also referred to the continued excitement leading up to the library’s “Music for a Saturday Evening” outdoor summer concerts.

Trustee Montalbano also pointed out that the library is proud of its partnerships formed with community groups such as the, Seaford Lions Club and the Seaford Wellness Council.

Also appearing on the April 6 ballot will be Gaughran, who is running unopposed for another five-year term.

A budget hearing was held last night. Voter registration will be held in the Seaford Library today between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.

The budget and trustee vote is scheduled for April 6 from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. with all voting taking place at the library.