We the undersigned urge the Montclair community to support robust funding for the safe use of the Montclair Public Library so that the library programming and resources remain available to all. The Library needs public support from
Montclair Township and private support through donations to the Montclair
Public Library Foundation.
The Bellevue Avenue Branch Library opened to the public in December 106 years ago. The following words are inscribed above the entrance:
FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY
HE THAT LOVETH A BOOK WILL NEVER WANT A FAITHFUL FRIEND – A
WHOLESOME COUNSELLOR – A CHEERFUL COMPANION – AN EFFECTUAL COMFORTER
Even in this difficult time, the Montclair Public Library strives to fulfill these words. The Main Library of the Montclair Public Library recently reopened so that Library patrons can safely obtain books and videos from within the building. Curbside pick-up is also still available. The Bellevue Avenue Branch Library remains closed.
Library patrons can borrow books and videos from both the holdings of the Montclair Public Library and through interlibrary loans from libraries in northern New Jersey that participate in the Bergen County Cooperative Library System (BCCLS). With in-person public schooling still in flux, parents can supplement their children’s education by obtaining books from the Children’s Library.
Furthermore, the Library has a wide variety of online eBooks and eAudios available to patrons. Thanks to generous contributions from individuals in our community, the Montclair Public Library Foundation is able to provide funding for library patrons who do not have access to the internet to borrow Kindles and WiFi Hotspots. The Library also makes available Chromebook laptops with WiFi Hotspots.
Patrons can use the Main Library computers. The Library has the technology to support job seekers who must submit online applications.
In addition, the Montclair Public Library provides classes through the Adult School ranging from language training to organizing a business online.
Finally, the Montclair Public Library serves as Montclair’s de facto community center by providing a home for the Adult School, hosting the Open Book/Open Mind series, and offering special services to all ages from children to seniors and numerous community groups.
Given the current financial situation facing Montclair Township because of the pandemic, we encourage you to inform your Montclair Township Councilor that you support the Montclair Public Library, one of our community’s most valued institutions. Donations can now be made to this year’s Montclair Public Library Foundation Annual Appeal by going online to www.montclairplf.org.
Signed By:
Montclair Library Friends Steering Committee
Montclair Public Library Foundation
Friends of the Bellevue Avenue Library
Succeed2gether
IMANI
Save Montclair
Watchung Booksellers
The Montclair Public Library Foundation should aim to triple its percentage of the library budget. Private support through donations is more needed today than ever.