Find all NJLA news, updates, statements, and committee and section newsletters here.
Over the years NJLA has received numerous questions from librarians, library board members and parents regarding whether or not the NJ Library Confidentiality statute (N.J.S.A. 18A:73-43.2) protects the confidentiality of children as well as adults. NJLA’s position is that this law protects... Continue Reading
As limited public forums, NJLA supports the use of public spaces in libraries for a wide variety of activities. Libraries may limit certain services and resources to residents and cardholders, but should in all other respects welcome members of the public into their public spaces. A... Continue Reading
The current proposed House Budget says "The Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) is an independent agency that makes grants to museums and libraries. This is not a core federal responsibility". The NJLA believes that having an informed and literate citizenry and protecting... Continue Reading
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... Continue Reading
NJLA strongly adheres to the ALA statement concerning economic barriers. The American Library Association statement concerning economic barriers says, “Charging fees for the use of library collections, services, programs and facilities that were purchased using public funds raises... Continue Reading
The New Jersey Library Association is very distressed by the recent and sudden closure of the Orange Public Library. We strongly believe that the residents of Orange, a major urban center, must have access to library services in their community. Residents of Orange pay taxes for library... Continue Reading
A National Security Letter (NSL) is a kind of administrative subpoena the FBI can issue to itself to compel the disclosure of customer records held by libraries, banks, telephone companies, Internet Service Providers, and others. NSLs contain nondisclosure requirements ("gag" provisions) that... Continue Reading
The New Jersey Library Association affirms the right of each individual, regardless of age, to open inquiry, and to read, view, listen and use resources without fear of scrutiny by others. NJLA POLICY ON CONFIDENTIALITY OF LIBRARY RECORDS Confidentiality exists when a library is in possession... Continue Reading
NJLA occasionally receives questions about whether or not library boards can meet and/or conduct business electronically. NJLA believes that it is a violation of the Open Public Meetings Act for library boards to meet electronically. NJLA also reminds boards that all electronic communication... Continue Reading
Whereas, the Members of the New Jersey Library Association are increasingly concerned by the actions of publishers to restrict, embargo or withhold content from US libraries. Whereas, over the last year 4 major publishers have adopted policies that negatively impact the ability of... Continue Reading
New Jersey's confidentiality of library records law may not apply to electronic content. Background Statement: Libraries have a longstanding commitment to protecting the privacy of their customers. Records of physical books checked out are currently protected by law. However, in other... Continue Reading
NJLA supports the use of public spaces in libraries for a wide variety of activities. Libraries may limit certain services and resources to residents and cardholders, but should in all other respects welcome members of the public into their public spaces without inquiring into the... Continue Reading
