On behalf of the board of trustees of the Hicksville Public Library, I am pleased to present the 2007-2008 annual budget. The board of trustees has devoted much time to develop a budget that will allow us to continue to provide you with the quality programs and services you expect and to enhance our book, video, DVD and CD collections.

With the help of our director Carol Ahrens we have, over the last year undertaken a number of cost saving measures. These were implemented with as little impact on our patrons as possible and have helped to minimize the budget increase. We will continue to look for cost savings wherever possible in an effort to streamline our services and reduce our budget.

During the past year we opened the Hicksville Public Library's Computer & Resource Center. This facility provides the community with space for additional computers and wireless Internet access. It also provides us with additional meeting rooms for community use and additional space for computer training. We also have plans to purchase several laptop computers for training and community use. This facility will continue to evolve and change as the community's needs change.

So that we can continue to provide you, our patrons and neighbors with the programs and services you expect, we are asking you to once again show your support by approving the proposed budget for 2007-2008 with an increase of 2.96 percent at a rate of $209.11 per household per year. Please take time to vote on Wednesday, April 18 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. We are committed to serve all of our taxpayers, parents, children and seniors and it is our goal under this new budget to make you a satisfied patron. Any suggestions that you may have as to how the library can serve you better are always appreciated. Thank you for your past and continued support.

Michael J. Galgano

President, Hicksville Public Library Board