Today, our speaker was Brett Bonfield, executive director of the New Jersey Library Association. The NJLA was established in 1890. Its primary mission is to advocate for the advancement of library services, protect intellectual freedom, and provide a collaborative network for the individuals who power New Jersey’s diverse information hubs.At its core, the NJLA serves as a powerful legislative voice in Trenton. The association works to secure state funding for public and school libraries, ensuring that these institutions remain well-resourced and accessible to all residents. Beyond financial support, the NJLA is a staunch defender of the Library Bill of Rights, actively opposing censorship and advocating for the privacy and First Amendment rights of all library patrons.
Through its Annual Conference, the NJLA brings together hundreds of professionals to share innovative practices, discuss emerging technologies like AI and digital literacy, and address the evolving needs of their communities.
There are 296 library systems in NJ. The NJLA is continuing to advocate against censorship, promote greater understanding and application of AI within the state library system, advocate for necessary capital projects, easing of limited access to eBooks which is currently impeded through restrictive policies by book publishers, and promoting training for staff in order to keep pace with changing technology and issues relevant to the general population.
Rotarians Steve LaFerriere, Mike Katz, David dietze, Brett, & Amy Behr-Shields, Director, Summit Free Public Library