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THE
STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT /
THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK / ALBANY, NY 12234 |
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TO: |
Cultural
Education Committee |
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FROM: |
Carole F. Huxley |
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SUBJECT: |
New Century Libraries legislative initiative |
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DATE: |
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STRATEGIC
GOAL: |
4 |
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AUTHORIZATION(S): |
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Executive Summary
Issue for
Discussion
Research results from numerous reliable studies indicate that good libraries substantially increase academic performance at all levels. Use of libraries continues to grow. Over one million youngsters participated in the Summer Reading Program last year. Despite the fundamental role that libraries play in support of learning, State funding for libraries has not increased since 1998. How will the Regents work with the library community and library supporters to significantly improve library funding in 2006?
Proposed Handling
State Librarian and Assistant Commissioner
for Libraries Janet M. Welch will provide an overview of the current library
funding situation, the budget and legislative priorities for 2006 and plans for
promotion of the New Century Libraries proposal. Following her brief presentation, the
Committee will have the opportunity to question Mrs. Welch and to discuss
strategies for improving library funding in 2006.
Procedural History
Each year the Committee
revisits Regents priorities and strategies for increasing library funding.
Background
Information
New Century
Libraries is
a comprehensive plan for libraries, based on the Regents Commission on Library
Services 2000 report, Meeting the Needs of All New Yorkers – Library Service
in the New Century. It has been a Regents Priority since its introduction.
Recommendation
The Regents should identify strategies for
increasing library funding in 2006.
Timetable for Implementation
Implementation of strategies should begin
immediately and continue throughout the 2006 legislative session.