New Century Libraries The Regents Legislative and Budget Initiative 2004-2005 $107 million

Senate Bill S3994: Text | Summary

Assembly Bill A8354: Text | Summary

Library Aid to Localities:
NOVEL (New York Online Virtual Electronic Library) - Provide support to 74 library systems. To libraries and systems for digitization projects and to the New York State Library for statewide digital library contracts, support and outreach services.	$14 million
Higher Access Standards -- Provide support for the Urban Library initiative, expansion of literacy programs, cost of living increases, libraries serving the disabled, New York State Library Research Library for expanded hours and customer base, need-based aid, development of the EXCELS performance program, strengthened academic and research initiatives, and a highly skilled library workforce.	$48 million
Public Library Districts -- Provide incentives to public libraries to become districts and to public library systems and the New York State Library for technical assistance.	$10 million
Public School Library Support Aid -- Ensuring that all students and school staff are effective users of ideas and information that support the curriculum by upgrading school library media programs.	$ 15 million
Capital Funds:
Public Library Construction -- Provide 2 percent of the $1 billion capital need (self-reported by libraries) in the first year. Matching levels will be adjusted according to community wealth, with a 3:1 match for the poorest communities.	$20 million

To learn more about the New Century Libraries proposal, please visit the New Century Libraries web site.

To learn more about the Regents recommendations to improve library service for all New Yorkers, see the Regents Commission's report
Meeting the Needs of All New Yorkers: Library Service in the New Century.