[Sourced from 2026 RHPL budget, board minutes, and my notes. AI assistance from Claude.]
Red Hook Public Library Report for April 2026
by Trustee Uku, Liaison · May 11, 2026
I met with Library Director Alex Geller on April 25 for an introductory tour and overview of current initiatives. The Library Board of Trustees meets every third Thursday of the month at 6 PM. Due to a time conflict with the April Village Green Committee meeting, I was unable to attend the Library’s in person. Going forward, the Director and I will meet on the third or fourth Friday of the month, schedules permitting.
Budget
The Library’s 2026–27 budget is $562,950, funded primarily by the Red Hook Central School District ($269,400) and Town of Red Hook ($225,000). The Village does not directly fund the Library. The annual appeal has raised $47,600. A major milestone is approaching: the Library’s mortgage ($66,490/year in interest alone) is nearly paid off.
Hello, Dolly!
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is finally coming to Red Hook, thanks to Alex’s commitment to coordinating between RHPL, Tivoli Library, the Town, and United Way. The program mails free books monthly to children from birth to age five.
Programs & Services
The Library ran 51 programs in March with 861 attendees, up from 47 programs and 674 attendees a year ago. E-circulation is up 10% year over year. Of note:
-
The 2026 Ascienzo Naturalist in Residence, Randy German, began the residency on April 11. The program offers guided nature and birding walks, talks, and environmental education for the community.
-
Staff member Trish has been accepted into the Digital Navigators of the Hudson Valley Program and will provide one-on-one tech support for the community.
Sustainability
As part of the Sustainable Libraries Initiative, the Library Board adopted a transportation and anti-idling policy at its March meeting, reducing emissions on Library property. The ADA-accessible door delivery has been delayed but is expected in May.
Community Outreach
The Library is looking to reimagine its outdoor garden space, which is heavily used in summer. The goal — new furniture, a sensory play area, and garden improvements — by July 1. Got deep pockets? Handy with a hammer? Please don’t be shy.
The Library Board will be recruiting two new board members this summer, with announcements going live soon. Please spread the word. Under Article IV of the Library’s bylaws, the Library Board nominates trustee candidates and the Village Board confirms them by majority vote. Library Trustees need not reside in the Village.
Next Library Board of Trustees meeting: Thursday, May 21 at 6:00 PM on the uppermost floor.