A Vote for Starr Library: What You Need to Know

Election Day: Tuesday, November 4, 2025
www.starrlibrary.org

Why Starr Library Matters

Starr Library is the vibrant community hub of Rhinebeck—a place where people of all ages come to learn, connect, and grow. We’re so much more than just books. We offer programs for kids, tech help for seniors, quiet study spaces, author talks, community partnerships and events that bring people together. From storytime to lifelong learning, we’re shaping a future filled with curiosity, creativity, and connection.

Why We’re Asking for Your Support

We are asking you to make an investment in maintaining and improving something vital to our community. A small increase will help us cover rising costs and continue to serve the community at a high level. Prices for library materials have increased, especially digital content. Ebooks and audiobooks typically cost libraries up to three times more than print books, and demand for them is growing fast. With this funding, we can:

– Maintain and grow popular programs and events
– Meet rising costs for books, ebooks, utilities, and more
– Support our amazing library staff who keep services running smoothly
– Take care of an aging building to keep it operational
– Ensure the library stays open, welcoming, and accessible to all

What Would This Cost?

If your home is assessed at $500,000, your taxes would go up about $16 per year—less than the price of one new hardcover book. The portion of your property tax bill dedicated to supporting Starr Library would total about $108 (less than 22 cents per $1,000 of property value). The current town tax levy for Starr Library is $464,800. The last increase was in 2023. 

This year, we are asking for an additional $82,000—for a new total of $546,800.

What This Vote Isn’t About

It does not affect Morton Library in Rhinecliff
It is not a vote to expand or move the building
It won’t replace fundraising or community donations—we’ll still rely on those too!

When and How to Vote

Election Day is Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Early voting is also available.

Need to register or check your voting info? Visit elections.dutchessny.gov

Our Commitment to You

As a public library, we strive to be the heart of Rhinebeck—where knowledge and ideas are exchanged, and creativity flourishes. We invite you to take part in building a brighter future for our library and our town. Come explore all Starr Library has to offer—and help us continue to grow with you. According to the EveryLibrary Institute, Starr Library delivers an estimated $7.74 in community value for every $1 of public funding. Your support truly goes a long way!

Find out how much the library saves your family:

http://resources.mhls.info/library-value-calculator

Thank you for supporting Starr Library!

Learn more at www.starrlibrary.org