FYI,

I know that library directors have been receiving information about funding for the NJ Library Construction Bond Act but I thought you might be interested in the information as well. The initial list of libraries receiving funding is listed in the press release.

~Sharon

NJ Legislature Approves Initial Round of Library Construction Projects

The New Jersey State Library is pleased to announce that proposed projects for the first round of funding from the New Jersey Library Construction Bond Act have been approved by the State Legislature. New Jersey voters approved the issuance of $125 million in state bonds to fund critical improvements to public libraries in 2017. Currently, $87.5 million is available during this initial grant round. Funds will be distributed to 38 awardees from 16 counties across the state.

On November 5, Governor Phil Murphy forwarded the initial list of awardees to the State Legislature. On November 9, the General Assembly introduced bill number A4942, which would appropriate funds to provide grants for construction, reconstruction, development, extension, improvement, and furnishing of New Jersey’s public libraries. On November 10, the Senate introduced the companion bill S3176. Once both houses have approved the appropriation and the Governor has signed the bill into law, the State Librarian will send grant award letters to the successful applicants.

More than 129 applications were reviewed by an eight-person committee comprised of experts from across relevant State agencies. Initial funds will support five projects to accommodate disabled residents and meet ADA requirements, six projects to specifically address HVAC improvements, and 23 building rehabilitation projects to improve public access to information and modernize community space. The initial grant round will also fund 10 new library buildings. A second round of awards is planned for 2021.

In an earlier press release issued by the Governor’s Office, officials offered remarks:

“From major building renovations to vital technology upgrades, this bond program will transform our libraries to better serve and be more accessible to their local communities,” said Governor Murphy. “I want to thank the State Librarian and President Hancock at Thomas Edison State University, as well as our partner agencies, on their collaborative work toward this effort.”

“New Jersey libraries continue to respond to the needs of our communities and are working tirelessly to bridge the digital divide and keep residents connected to many critical services which have become all the more essential in recent months,” said Mary Chute, New Jersey State Librarian. “We are eager to see local libraries break ground on these much-needed projects, which will make library facilities safer, more efficient, and more accessible for all people.”

“I am thrilled New Jersey has made this investment in our valuable library infrastructure,” said Dr. Merodie A. Hancock, President of Thomas Edison State University. “The Library Construction Bond makes a significant impact through crucial library improvements that better serve our residents and support the educational and community priorities of the state.”

The State Librarian, in consultation with the President of Thomas Edison State University, is responsible for the administration and oversight of the Library Construction Bond Act. The State Library will not be able to respond to questions on the Bond Act until after the State Library’s grant award notifications have been received by the awardees. For all New Jersey Library Construction Bond Act updates, visit www.njstatelib.org/NJLibraryConstructionBond.

~Sharon

All the best,

Sharon Rawlins, MLS, she/her/hers

Youth Services Specialist for Lifelong Learning

NJ State Library

185 West State St.

P.O. Box 520

Trenton, NJ 08625-0520

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609-278-2640 ext. 116

609-278-2650 – fax