Endorsement: Yes to make needed repairs at Batavia library

The Batavia Public Library is seeking a tax increase to maintain and repair its nearly 20-year-old building and expand programs and services.

The board of trustees unanimously agreed in July to seek a 7 cents increase in the general operating tax rate. The overall tax rate, however, wouldn't change. Officials say the change would, essentially, be a "swap" since the district will be paying off construction bonds - at slightly more than 7 cents - in December. So, instead of getting a reduction on their tax bill, taxpayers will continue to pay approximately $23.33 per $100,000 of home market value.

On its website, the library says there were 256,087 library visits, 625,877 items checked out, 21,479 computer sessions and attendance of 17,211 at children's programs in 2017-18. In addition, the library website was viewed 269,608 times.

The library, clearly, is useful. Its proposal is needed and reasonably priced. We recommend a yes vote.