HEADLIGHT — April 20 Edition
No Meeting This Monday, April 20
A quiet Monday on the Rotary calendar — but plenty happening around the club and in the community.
Last Week’s Speaker: Brett Bonfield, Executive Director, New Jersey Library Association
Brett Bonfield delivered a sharp, forward‑looking overview of the New Jersey Library Association (NJLA) — an organization with roots stretching back to 1890 and a mission that has only grown more urgent.
Key Takeaways
- Advocacy in Trenton:
NJLA is the statewide legislative voice for New Jersey’s 296 library systems, pushing for stable funding for public and school libraries.
- Defending Intellectual Freedom:
The association is a steadfast protector of the Library Bill of Rights, fighting censorship efforts and safeguarding patron privacy and First Amendment protections.
- Championing Access & Technology:
NJLA continues to press publishers to ease restrictive e‑book policies, expand digital access, and support capital projects that modernize library infrastructure.
- Preparing Libraries for the Future:
Through its Annual Conference, NJLA convenes hundreds of professionals to share best practices, explore emerging technologies — including AI — and strengthen digital literacy statewide.
- Investing in People:
Training and professional development remain top priorities as libraries adapt to rapidly changing community needs.
Bonfield’s message was clear: libraries are not just repositories of books — they are front‑line civic institutions, and NJLA is working to ensure they remain strong, open, and future‑ready.
Membership Mixer — Who Will You Invite?
Tuesday, April 28 • 5:30–7:00 PM
The Office Tavern
A perfect opportunity to introduce friends, colleagues, or neighbors to Rotary.
- $20 for Rotarians
- Guests attend free
- RSVP to Donna (dgp212@gmail.com) or Francie (yfcho@comcast.net)
Bring someone who would enjoy the fellowship, service, and spirit of our club.
Raffle Tickets —
Please wrap up your sales and return stubs and funds to Joe Steiner at the next meeting.
This fundraiser fuels our scholarship program — every ticket makes a difference.
Upcoming Community Event
Financial Planning for Your 30s & 40s
with Steven LaFerriere, CFP®
A practical, jargon‑free session for adults juggling homeownership, family responsibilities, and long‑term planning. Expect clear priorities, real‑world examples, and steps you can act on immediately.
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
7:00–8:00 PM
Summit Public Library — Liss Meeting Room
For registration details, contact Steve at steven.laferriere@ml.com
