Librarians
The NOVELNY Program : The New York Knowledge Initiative
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The New York Library Initiative

The New York Library Initiative supports implementation of the ten recommendations of the Regents Commission on Library Services and builds on the New Century Libraries proposal. Appointed in 1998, the Regents Commission on Library Services produced its final report in 2000. The report presented the Commission's 10 recommendations for strengthening library services in New York State and meeting the information needs of the 21st century. In 2001, the Regents adopted New Century Libraries as a priority legislative initiative aimed at implementing the Commission's recommendations.

The New York State Board of Regents Proposal for 2008 - 2009, to improve library services to all New Yorkers, includes the following key elements:

  • Statewide Internet Library: NOVELNY pilot project
  • Libraries and Systems: Partnerships that build capacity
  • Public Library Renovation and Construction : Safe and modern libraries for all New Yorkers
  • Growing Readers @ the Library: Raising Academic Outcomes for All New Yorkers

Other library budget items include: Early Literacy Programs; Trustee Training; Summer Reading Program; Library Services for New Yorkers with Disabilities; Extended Hours for the New York State Library.