Samantha Simmons writes: “Troy (N.Y.) voters on September 16 overwhelmingly approved a controversial tax levy for the city’s public library. To make the library a more competitive workplace, support its newly unionized employees, hire more administrative staff, and better maintain two historic buildings, residents approved a 30 percent tax levy increase. Of 1,383 ballots cast, 309 voted against the proposal. The library’s main branch downtown, which recently underwent a roof renovation, was open only six days in July due to a lack of staff and adequate air conditioning. Meanwhile, the Lansingburgh branch is undergoing renovations after severe water damage in 2023.”