Write a commentNorth Country residents voted to increase funding for all 22 libraries in the North Country Library System (NCLS) that had referendums appearing on the school ballot this year.
The investment of over $400,000 in small and predominantly rural libraries pays out in the shape of more books on the shelves, technology upgrades, more activities for people all ages, and safer, more accessible buildings.
NCLS Executive Director Paulette Roes says, "We are incredibly grateful to the residents of the North Country for their strong and thoughtful support of our libraries. The successful passage of these referendums reflects our community's deep commitment to lifelong learning, literacy, and equitable access to resources. With this additional support, these libraries across the North Country Library System can continue to grow, innovate, and serve as welcoming spaces for education, connection, and discovery."
One library that saw a dramatic increase was the Ogdensburg Public Library. School district residents approved a 35% increase to library funding. The new funding will allow the library to increase its hours open to the public, add staff positions, keep technology up to date, and add STEAM programming for children and teens.
Ogdensburg Public Library director Penny Kerfien says, "The Board of Trustees, the staff and the Friends of the Library are very grateful to the Ogdensburg area community. This referendum was very needed for the building, the staff and especially the community."
Oswego County libraries with budget increases on the ballot this year included: Central Square Library, Fulton Public Library, Mexico Public Library, Oswego Public Library, and the Phoenix Public Library.
Of the North Country Library System's 66 libraries, 58 receive funding from a referendum on their local school or municipal ballot, which allows voters a direct voice in library funding.
For more information on this year's results, visit ncls.org/ballot-results-2025/ or contact Angela Newman at anewman@ncls.org.
