Fairview, Skene Libraries Seek Sustainable Funding Through May 2026 Referendum

MARGARETVILLE — The Boards of Trustees of Fairview Public Library in Margaretville and Skene Memorial Library in Fleischmanns have submitted petitions to place a referendum on the May 2026 Margaretville Central School District ballot. The referendum would allow voters in the district to approve sustainable funding for both libraries through a dedicated line item on the school tax bill, as outlined under Chapter 414 of New York State Education Law 259.

 If approved, funding for both libraries would cost taxpayers 16 cents per thousand dollars of assessed property value — approximately $35 to $55 per household annually. For most taxpayers, this equates to about $1 per week. Of the 42 member libraries in the Four County Library System, 35 of those are currently financially supported in this manner. Funding through a public vote on a tax levy is widely recommended for libraries, as it establishes a direct relationship between the library and taxpayers, ensuring accountability and transparency. Additionally, it ensures that libraries can rely on stable, adequate funding to support their operations and programming. 

Despite their broad community impact, both Skene and Fairview face increasing financial pressures. Current stipends from the town, villages, and school district account for only a small portion of their respective operating budgets, and those contributions have remained stagnant. Meanwhile, expenses for fuel, insurance, payroll, system fees, materials, and supplies continue to rise. 

Although Skene’s financial problems are more urgent, both libraries face serious financial challenges. Fairview Public Library has an endowment, but most of it is legally restricted, so only the interest can be used for operations. State law also limits investments mainly to certificates of deposit (CDs), which reduces growth potential. Skene Library has no financial reserves and would be affected immediately without stable funding. Fairview could continue operating for about three to four years by using its available endowment funds, but this would greatly reduce its reserves and is not a long-term solution.

To remain fiscally responsible, both libraries have deferred building repairs, limited programming and presenters, and maintained minimal staffing levels. Stable funding would allow the libraries to continue to build collections, maintain and enhance patron services and programs, grow digital offerings, and better meet evolving community needs. Without sustainable funding, rising costs for materials, benefits, and increased library usage may necessitate difficult decisions, including reductions in hours, programming, acquisitions, and services. 

Both Fairview and Skene libraries offer a wide range of free resources including magazines, DVDs, audiobooks, and digital e-files. Through interlibrary loan, cardholders also have access to materials from more than 40 additional libraries within the Four County Library System. The libraries provide free public access to computers as well as faxing, scanning, and copying services. Both libraries host an expanding array of community programs and events such as painting classes, mah jongg, book clubs, and guest speakers. Community groups also utilize library spaces for meetings and gatherings. Nearly all programs and services are offered free of charge.

As part of the ballot vote process, the libraries will hold several community meetings prior to the May 2026 vote to provide additional details about the current financial situation and to explain how stable funding would guarantee the fiscal stability of both libraries. Community members are  encouraged to attend, ask questions, and learn more about the referendum. The ballot  initiative vote will take place on May 19, 2026 and is open to all registered voters in the  Margaretville Central School district. 

For more information, please contact Fairview Public Library or Skene Memorial Library directly.