Deadline: March 17, 2014

All materials must be postmarked by Monday, March 17, 2014. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that all requested materials are received timely.

• RESTORE  FUNDING FOR THE STATE PER CAPITA AID PROGRAM –critical component of local library support.
• ESTABLISH A CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM FOR PUBLIC LIBRARIES-renew the Library Construction Bond program to provide capital funding for public library buildings and technological infrastructure.
• UPHOLD FUNDING FOR STRONG LOCAL LIBRARIES-Support legislative activities which provide a strong financial foundation for local public library services.
• MAINTAIN FUNDING FOR NEW JERSEY LIBRARY NETWORK-  A model of shared services and innovation funding provides a statewide delivery system and cost sharing programs which are critical to the operations of all types of libraries in New Jersey.

The New Jersey Library Association joins the American Library Association and many others who are concerned and troubled by the recent court decision regarding net neutrality.  New Jersey's public libraries are leaders in providing Internet access within their communities.  NJLA is committed to insuring people who use the Internet in a public library have equal access to online information and services.   Allowing commercial entities to prioritize some Internet traffic and/or block other traffic based on commercial interests is not in the public interest.  NJLA strongly supports efforts to resolve this matter in a manner that upholds the public's right to access information.