Dear Editor:
NJ libraries are facing a large challenge as Governor Christie’s budget calls for a 74% reduction in state tax dollars for statewide library services. A 74% reduction in funding will eliminate the core services and infrastructure that support a majority of NJ libraries, including the Internet, loaning and delivery of collections between libraries, support for Summer Reading Programs for children; databases and electronic resources, and as much as a 50% reduction in State Aid, which many libraries use to purchase books, computers, and audiovisual collections.
Our family depends on these services and it helps our budget. We visit the local library often to take out books, DVDs, magazines, and attend programs. We often use the homework assistance offered to students. Furthermore, we use these databases at home, which our students can get after the library is closed by using their library cards. These services are invaluable to our family. We also like the author programs that are relaxing and stimulating. Our children and teens enjoy visiting the library, borrowing books, and returning them to be conservators of the environment.
We also understand that a bill has been introduced to end the formula for dedicated public library funding (A2555.) We implore you to keep libraries strong and preserve this funding.
While we recognize the terrible budget problems that Governor Christie, the NJ Legislature and NJ citizens face, the answer is not in eliminating services for libraries, which truly serve NJ residents of all ages and stages of life at an average annual cost of ($1.19) per person. Libraries are part of the solution in helping our NJ residents during the economic downturn. It is very important to Save NJ Libraries! Visit www.savemynjlibrary.org [1] for more information.
Sincerely,
Dorothy Stein
aka. Dr. Dot