Maplewood Library Recommended for $8.3 Million in NJ’s Library Construction Bond Act Funding – TAPinto.net
TRENTON, NJ — Gov. Phil Murphy has recommended Maplewood as one of the New Jersey townships to receive funding through the Library Construction Bond Act.
“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 Murphy in a statement released by his office.
Maplewood is expected to receive $8.3 million through the LCBA. The funding will pay for technology upgrades that improve public access to information and modernize community space, and provide for other improvements as well.
“We were thrilled to hear good news from the Governor’s office yesterday,” said Katherine McCaffrey, president of the board of the Maplewood Library. “Our library is the heart of our community: nearly 1,000 children, teens, adults and seniors benefit daily from our services, but our physical plant is badly out of date,” she told TAPinto SOMA of the need for the bond.
“These funds will allow us to provide the crucial upgrades to our infrastructure necessary to serve our community. The new building will increase in size by 35%, seating will increase by 77% and collections will grow by 4%. It is welcome news during very anxious and difficult times. We’re very grateful to members of our Township Committee, Foundation Board, Friends of the Library, Trustees, Staff and the broader community who helped us to secure this vital funding,” McCaffrey added.
West Orange is expected to receive $3 million for their library as well. In response, Assembly Democrats Mila Jasey and John McKeon (both D-Essex, Morris) released the following joint statement:
“In the age of smartphones, tablets and access to unlimited information at the touch of a button, libraries have become about so much more than just books. Libraries are community spaces, offering a variety of family programs, enrichment classes and access to high speed internet. During the pandemic, local libraries in Essex and Morris Counties have expanded their reach to offer curbside service, home delivery for seniors and Zoom presentations. Their role in their communities has never been more important.
“Sadly, library funding has remained flat in recent years, leaving many with little resources to make improvements. This support from the Library Construction Bond Act will help libraries in Maplewood and West Orange continue growing and innovating.”
The Legislature must approve the appropriations for the bond awards. According to Murphy’s statement, “The bond issuance was approved by New Jersey voters in November 2017 and all applicants were required to identify a 50 percent match to fund their proposed projects.”
A second round of awards is planned for the first quarter of 2021.
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Another Term for Dafis and DeLuca
Zubieta Assumed Winner for her BOE Seat
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