Library Funding Vote

With 1,411 ballots cast, voters approve $20,000 levy increase for Wood Library

May 20, 2025 (Canandaigua, NY)—A proposition for Wood Library funding was approved by Canandaigua City School District voters in an election held May 20, 2025, by a margin of 1,013 in favor to 398 opposed.  The voter-approved proposition authorizes the Canandaigua City School District to levy and collect an annual tax for Wood Library in the amount of $1,027,564, starting with the October 2025 tax bill.  The projected library property tax rate will be 28 cents per thousand dollars of assessed property valuation.

“We are deeply grateful that our community values a thriving library—one that welcomes everyone, no matter their age, interests, abilities, or background,” said Wood Library Board President Steve Gleason. “The staff and Board of Trustees are proud to serve a library that plays such a vital and unifying role in our community.”

“Every day, I witness the quiet but powerful ways people count on Wood Library—for learning, connection, comfort, and inspiration,” said Library Director Jenny Goodemote. “Thanks to support from the community, we can continue to meet people where they are, offer more of what they need, and provide our dedicated staff the resources they need to make a real difference in people’s lives.”

In 2026, community-based funding will represent a little more than 76% of the library’s projected budget of $1,343,837.  Fundraising and endowment income will make up the balance needed to fully fund library operations.

Goodemote reports that Wood Library is coming off another solid year of service to the community offering meaningful personal service seven days a week and connections that people crave.  Last year, 26,302 people attended 1,032 library-sponsored programs.  The number of active cardholders was 11,693.  Digital content remained popular with 65,517 downloads of ebooks, audiobooks, movies, and TV shows.  Library staff responded to 3,003 reference questions – and library meeting rooms were used by community groups 1,102 times.

Wood Library is a full-service community library serving everyone who resides in the Canandaigua City School District.  Its mission is to provide exceptional public library service in a comfortable and inclusive environment where people can spark their imaginations, satisfy their curiosity, engage in lifelong learning, and make community connections.  Learn more about Wood Library at www.woodlibrary.org.    

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