Minerva Free Library Resolution Vote Fails by 5 Votes

Minerva Free Library Resolution Vote Fails by 5 Votes

June 2, 2023

The Minerva Free Library resolution in Sherman, NY failed to pass by 5 votes in the election held on Thursday, June 1, 2023 with a result of 123 to 119.  The certification process found at least 6 ineligible voters were allowed to cast ballots making the true outcome unclear.  This confusion on both voter eligibility and voting process means the Minerva Free Library Board will be considering a re-vote in the Fall.   Only Sherman School District residents with their primary residence located in the district should have been able to vote.  These irregularities along with confusion around voting times and misinformation surrounding the vote, means we would like to make sure the district residents have a proper opportunity to determine the fate of the library.

The Minerva Free Library Board really appreciates the support given by the Sherman School District Administration, CCLS- Chautauqua Cattaraugus Library System Organization, and especially the area district residents.  There has been an outpouring of support since people have been alerted to the fact that the library will have to close if we don’t pass this vote.  Donations have poured in including a sizeable one made by the Carnahan-Jackson Foundation that will make it possible to continue operations for the short term.

We implore the entire community to consider Minerva Free Library as a vital community center and continue to give us ideas on how we might best serve the public.  We pledge to continue partnering with our “Friends of the Library” patrons, the Sherman School management and teachers, along with many other organizations to continue offering critical programming like the Summer Reading Program that will start in July and the after school programming planned in the fall.  The building is open to the public to host private events and we will continue supporting groups that use the library like TOPS, Religious Release Time, and will continue our fundraising efforts.

Please feel free to use our website to see events and offerings at www.minervalibrary.org or stop in and visit us this summer!

Minerva Library Adopt-A- Magazine

There are several ways to help your local library.  Your financial support is appreciated.  Donations are typically given through the Minerva Free Library, a 501 (c)(3) organization.

Adopt-a-magazine is a program for library supporters to donate magazine subscriptions to benefit the library.  The renewal dates vary between titles.

If you want to donate a magazine, please talk to a library employee in person or by calling us at 71-761-6378.  You will receive recognition for your adoption unless you tell us otherwise.

Adopt magazines in honor of family or friends.

Adopt magazines through your business.

There are magazines in a variety of price ranges.

Make checks payable to Minerva Free Library.

Thank you for your consideration!

“Libraries Change Lives”