Last year, my predecessor, Irene Langlois, reflected on how libraries have continually adapted to change and highlighted the emerging role of artificial intelligence in our profession. A year later, every time I think I’ve finally caught up on the latest AI developments, three new tools seem to appear overnight! But one thing remains the same - libraries are continuing to explore how these technologies can be used responsibly while helping our communities develop the skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex information landscape.

Of course, AI is only one of many changes facing libraries today. We are also seeing shifts in the publishing industry, disruptions among long-standing vendors, and continued conversations about the future of digital content. Efforts such as the eBook legislation championed by the New Jersey Library Association underscore the importance of advocacy in ensuring fair and sustainable access to digital materials. Equally important are the New Jersey State Library’s efforts to learn about and secure much-needed funding for library capital projects, recognizing that equitable access to information depends not only on the resources we provide, but also on the strength and sustainability of the buildings and infrastructure that support our communities.

At a time when so much is changing, I believe one thing has become increasingly clear - our greatest strength lies in our connections with one another. My own library recently joined the Main Library Alliance after more than 150 years of operating independently and I was reminded that even positive change can feel daunting. There were more than a few moments when staff were learning new systems and all of us were wondering what we might have overlooked. Yet it did not take long for us to see firsthand the benefits that come from libraries working together to share resources, expertise, and ideas.

Since joining MAIN, I’ve found myself reaching out to colleagues across the state far more often than before and have been reminded how much libraries rely on one another. Whether it's recommending games that can help a patron stay connected with a spouse living with Alzheimer's, offering advice on notary best practices, sharing an AI-enhanced collection management dashboard, or tackling something completely unexpected, there is almost always someone willing to share their knowledge and experience. None of us has all the answers, but together our collective knowledge and experience allow us to meet challenges that would be difficult to tackle alone.

That is why LibraryLinkNJ's mission of connecting New Jersey's libraries to one another and to the resources they need has never been more relevant. Thanks to LLNJ, no one library faces these challenges alone. One of LLNJ's greatest strengths is its ability to bring New Jersey's libraries together to learn from one another and to share expertise across all library types. Through continuing education, MentorNJ meetups, the Tech Advisory Group, and the LearningSpace, LLNJ ensures that library workers have the connections, knowledge, and support needed to thrive in a changing environment.

As I begin my term as Board President, I am inspired by library workers in the state and I look forward to strengthening our connections in the year ahead. While none of us can predict exactly what challenges or opportunities lie ahead, I am confident that by working together - and with the support of organizations like LLNJ - New Jersey’s libraries are well-positioned to meet whatever comes next.

Best,

Amy Behr-Shields

President, LibraryLinkNJ

LibraryLinkNJ Fall Conference: Collections Conference. Thursday, October 22nd. Online via Zoom

Call for Proposals: LLNJ Fall Conference

LibraryLinkNJ is pleased to announce our 6th annual one-day virtual conference! Join us on Thursday, October 22nd for The Collections Conference, a free, full day opportunity to focus your energy on a core aspect of libraries everywhere!

What do you have to share about library collections? Whether it's a how-to on starting a successful library-of-things, a deep-dive into the world of e-material budgets, or a presentation of your research into inclusive print collections - there just may be a spot for you as a presenter at our fall virtual conference! We're seeking presentations on all types of collections from all types of organizations; LLNJ membership is not required.

Fill out and submit the call for proposals form no later than Tuesday, August 18th to be considered!

AWE Learning

AWE Learning has provided a safe learning environment for young learners for three decades. The AWE Learning All-in-One Workstations or tablets are locked down and safe for children to explore. AWE Learning computers can be found in 49% of public libraries across North America. These plug and play technology devices allow for easy use at the library with little assistance needed. Below is a description of the AWE Learning products. You can now bundle products on one unit and stretch your dollars.

Early Literacy Station™ Platinum (ages 2-8)
Bilingual Spanish Literacy Station Platinum (ages 2-8)
AfterSchool Edge™ Literacy Station Platinum (ages 6-12)

Through September 30, 2026:

LibraryLinkNJ members are eligible for a 10% customer discount on any of the AWE Learning Stations along with an additional $25 off per unit.
New Customers will receive $150 off the purchase of an AWE Learning Station.
A customer that has an out of warranty unit will receive $75 off purchase of an AWE Learning Station as a trade-in/loyalty credit.
A time sensitive additional special “America 250 Celebration” discount is $250 off any workstations with multiple content modules configured on them at the time of purchase of a new unit. It can also be used to purchase additional modules to add to an existing unit that is in warranty. The “America 250 Celebration” Special on the add on bundle will expire July 31, 2026.

Find additional discount details, including the vendor contact information, at:

https://librarylinknj.org/discounts/awe-learning-stations

Foreign Affairs

Give your patrons access to over 100 years of expert analysis on international politics, economics, security, and diplomacy with Foreign Affairs. Designed for academic and public libraries, group subscriptions include flexible access options, a searchable digital archive, mobile app access, and exclusive content not available through aggregator databases.

LibraryLinkNJ members receive discounted group subscription rates through December 31, 2026
For more information, visit the LibraryLinkNJ Discounts page
To place an order or request pricing information, contact groupsubs@foreignaffairs.com.

New Courses Available Now!

Discover a wide range of on-demand resources designed to meet the changing needs of library staff. From inclusive service approaches to staff management, you’ll find opportunities to strengthen your skills and broaden your perspective. Courses on the LibraryLinkNJ LearningSpace can be accessed with or without a login, but creating one to track your progress takes less than one minute!

Just Added

Courses on the LearningSpace are specifically designed to support the professional development of library staff. Please note that these courses are not intended for use or access by the public.

Writing Conference Proposals. Logos of LibraryLinkNJ, NJASL, and NJLA

Conferences 101: Writing Conference Proposals

Whether you're nervous about submitting a conference proposal for the very first time or a veteran proposal-writer looking to learn more about how conference committees make choices and evaluate proposals, this event is for you! Combined, our presenters have years of experience planning, attending, and presenting at conferences; we'll walk you through some basic tips and strategies for understanding what conference committees are looking for, how you can craft an appealing conference proposal, and how flexibility and creativity can help you find yourself at the mic for your next conference!

Writing Conference Proposals 101; Virtual; Tuesday, August 4, 10:30am-11:30am.

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Native Tongue: The Public Library's Role in Assisting Healthcare Professionals with Community Health

Native Tongue: The Public Library's Role in Assisting Healthcare Professionals with Community Health

In this webinar, Larry Daniels, Branch Manager at Durham County Library’s Stanford L Warren Branch, will demonstrate how to position the library as an accessible, vital resource that connects healthcare professionals directly with the community. Drawing from practical experience, he will present a scalable model of how libraries can intentionally assist and uplift vulnerable populations. Part of this webinar will include active discussion on the topic of community health and how public libraries fit into that work.

Native Tongue; Virtual; Tuesday, August 4, 2pm-3pm.

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Don't Buy (Into) It! How to Spot AI-Generated Slop

Don't Buy (Into) It! How to Spot AI-Generated Slop

Finding that you are buying a lot of AI-generated slop for your library’s collections? Want to make sure your budget is being spent wisely? This program, brought to you by folks from the acquisitions, cataloging, and instruction departments, will review helpful tips on how to spot AI in images, writing, and videos, including red-flags for book purchasing. We will also discuss how to make selection policies for deciding when to say no to AI materials. Wrapping up, we will have a group discussion on guidelines for your own library’s policies.

Don't Buy (Into) It! How to Spot AI-Generated Slop; Virtual; Tuesday, August 11, 2pm-3pm

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A Shallow Dive Into Copyright and Digital Resource Lending

A Shallow Dive into Copyright and Digital Resource Lending

The session will explore the basics of U.S. copyright law, fair use, the first sale doctrine, licensing agreements, the public domain, and other key concepts that influence digital lending and document delivery. Using real-world library scenarios, participants will gain the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions while supporting equitable access to information. Whether you're new to resource sharing or simply looking for a refresher, this session offers an approachable introduction to the copyright principles. The session will also highlight reliable copyright resources, tools, and organizations that can help participants continue learning and find more detailed guidance long after the presentation ends

A Shallow Dive into Copyright and Digital Resource Lending; Virtual; Wednesday, August 12, 2pm-3pm.

Image of a cat sitting atop a paper labeled "Invoice"

Delivery Cost Share Invoices

All member libraries that currently receive delivery service through LLNJ should have received their cost share invoice.
School libraries will see invoices come though in August.
Questions regarding invoices and all billing inquiries should be directed to our Administrative Operations Manager, Jennifer Bruno (jennifer@librarylinknj.org)

If any member library is not currently receiving delivery service through LLNJ and would like to find out more information, please reach out to Jennifer Bruno!

About LibraryLinkNJ

LibraryLinkNJ: Every New Jersey Library - Connected and Thriving

LibraryLinkNJ (formerly known as INFOLINK) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. Its members are multi-type libraries and library-related agencies located in the twenty-one counties of New Jersey. This area includes 8.79 million people. The population of the state is highly diverse and includes some of the largest communities of Spanish speaking and Asian Indian persons in the U.S.

LibraryLinkNJ – The New Jersey Library Cooperative has over 1100 voting representatives from over 2,500 public and private school, public, academic, institutional, corporate, health sciences and special libraries and library-related agencies. A member-elected Executive Board meets regularly to oversee the programs and services of the organization.

LibraryLinkNJ and its services are funded by the New Jersey State Library, which is responsible for the coordination, promotion and funding of the New Jersey Library Network. Members join at no charge and pay no dues.

Email: info@librarylinknj.org
Website: www.librarylinknj.org
Location: 2300 Stuyvesant Avenue, Ewing Township, NJ, USA
Phone: 732-752-7720
Facebook: facebook.com/librarylinknj
Instagram: @librarylinknj