Skip to main content

Recently Asked Questions

To search the RAQ database, use the search box at the top of the page. Recordings of Ask the Lawyer webinars and more information can be be found on the Resources Page.

Submit a Question to Ask the Lawyer About the Service

Displaying 1 - 3 of 3
Question Submission Date
Can Library Surplus Funds Be Added to Municipal General Fund

We are a small municipal library serving a village of 6500 & a town population the same size. Our village trustees have decided to take our balance from the 2022-2023 fiscal year & add to the village general fund. Does New York State Education Law #259 apply here? We were told it is just the Attorney General’s interpretation of the law & does not keep the balance in the library’s possession.

 
Using tax levy or donated funds to purchase food for community

Could we use any of our budgetary funds as collected through our tax levy and/or funds received from donations (restricted and unrestricted) to pay for food (dry goods, fresh produce and/or fruit) and PPE's which would be given freely to the public/patrons some of which may not be from our community (we would not ask them for a library card or ID)?

If so, could it be considered a program or if not what other budgetary designation would you suggest it be given?

 
School Ballot Option for Public Libraries

Our public, municipal library wants to seek funding through a school board levy.  The boundaries of the school district we’re petitioning are outside (but include) our municipality.  Are there any legal impediments to a public, municipal library going on the school district ballot?  We have reached out to New York State Ed’s Division of Library Development and NYLA, but seek a lawyer's perspective.