THE STATE EDUCATION DEPARTMENT / THE UNIVERSITY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK / ALBANY, NY 12234

 

TO:

The Honorable the Members of the Board of Regents

FROM:

Carole F. Huxley

COMMITTEE:

Full Board

TITLE OF ITEM:

Regents Commission on Library Services

DATE OF SUBMISSION:

November 19, 2004

PROPOSED HANDLING:

Discussion

RATIONALE FOR ITEM:

To discuss the recommendations of the Regents Commission on Library Services and the Regents New Century Libraries legislative initiative

STRATEGIC GOAL:

Goals 1-5

AUTHORIZATION(S):

 

 

SUMMARY:

 

From 1998 through July 2000, the Regents Commission on Library Services extensively studied libraries and library systems in New York State at the direction of the Board of Regents.  Through research, public hearings and lengthy discussion involving representatives of all types of libraries, the Commission concluded that many of New York’s libraries lack the critical resources to meet the growing needs of their communities.  Citing the need for profound change in libraries statewide, the Commission issued its final report, Meeting the Needs of All New Yorkers—Library Service in the New Century.

This final report, released in July 2000, outlines ten major recommendations affecting school, public, academic and special libraries and the library systems that provide essential services to their members.  After the release of the report, the Regents unanimously adopted the ten recommendations as their public policy.  The policy is embodied in the New Century Libraries legislative initiative that is currently before the New York State Legislature.  The legislation has been a Regents Priority since its introduction.

Despite the fact that the legislation has not been passed, the library community has made progress toward implementation of a number of the Commission’s recommendations, e.g., the development of NOVEL (New York Online Virtual Electronic Library) with the help of funds made available through the Federal Library Services and Technology Act.  During the discussion, Abby Milstein, Regents Commission Co-Chair, will provide a review of the Commission’s work, as well as an updated perspective on New Century Libraries as the centerpiece of efforts toward improved statewide library services.  Other Commission members will also be present for the discussion of successes, challenges, and possible need for changes.