Libraries prepare for cuts as the state tightens its belt

Gov. Chris Christie's (R-NJ) proposed budget cuts state aid to libraries by 74 percent. If passed, the budget will go into effect on July 1 and the impact on library services will be immediate. As that deadline draws closer, local public libraries are scrambling to figure out how they will deal with the loss in funds and still provide the services that residents have come to rely upon and expect. Local librarians are even more concerned about the cuts in services provided by the New Jersey State Library and other organizations that depend on state funding to operate.