When You Think About It, They're VERY Important . . .

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has signed State Senator Christopher “Kip” Bateman’s “New Jersey Library Construction Bond Act,” ensuring it can appear on the ballot in the upcoming November general election.

Sen. Kip Bateman’s NJ Library Construction Bond Act gives voters the ability to approve funds for the repair, construction or expansion of local libraries. (Abhi Sharma/Flickr)

“Public libraries drive the economy by providing career training and access to technology for people who wouldn’t have it otherwise,” Senator Bateman (R-16) said. “They are invaluable community centers that everyone should have access to, but 78 percent need repairs and less than half are ADA accessible.”

“Putting this on the ballot allows the public to decide on how their taxpayer dollars are being spent, which is exactly the way it should be done. I have no doubt that people will rise up to support their local library in November. It’s the right thing to do,” Bateman continued.

S-2171 authorizes $125 million in general obligation bonds to provide grants for construction, expansion and upgrades to New Jersey’s public libraries. The grants would pay for half the cost of constructing or upgrading a library, with local governments covering the other half. The State Librarian would establish eligibility criteria for the receipt of grants.

“This bill addresses a critical need,” Michael Cerra, of the NJ League of Municipalities Assistant Executive Director Michael Cerra said. “Many public libraries in New Jersey are simply outdated and cannot accommodate modern technologies. The NJ Library Construction Bond Act, if approved by voters, will provide an appropriate revenue source and thus diminish the financial impact on local governments.”

“Many public libraries in New Jersey have a critical need to expand or upgrade their facilities. If approved by voters, this funding will be available to transform public libraries in communities throughout our state. “The New Jersey Library Association is thrilled that this legislation has been signed and we would like to thank the sponsors in the Legislature for their support.”

Currently, aid for libraries only amounts to 42 percent per capita. Although there were as many as 44 million visits to New Jersey libraries last year, many have been forced to reduce their hours or forego much-needed upgrades due to a lack of funding. 78 percent of libraries are in need of some repairs.

“Libraries are not just for storing books. They are shelter during a storm, career centers, and gathering places for new neighbors. They help our children grow into well-rounded adults. We simply cannot afford to let them crumble or fade away,” Senator Bateman added. “I will continue to work with the dedicated advocates and local residents who have fought for this act to ensure our grandchildren know what it’s like to grow up with a library nearby.”