Abinanti Calls on Governor to Sign Library Shared Services Bill

TARRYTOWN- “This bill implements for libraries the Governor’s call-to-action for more shared services,” said Assemblyman Abinanti (D-Greenburgh/ Mt. Pleasant) today as he urged Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to sign the Library Procurement Bill (A.7265A/S6424A). The legislation sponsored in the Senate by Senator Patty Ritchie has been delivered to the Governor for action before the end of this week.

If signed by the Governor, the measure will establish a statewide centralized system for the purchase and delivery of print materials (books, journals etc.) and e-materials (electronic books, audio books and other non-print library materials).

Currently, there is no integrated system in New York for purchase and delivery of print materials and e-materials, requiring libraries, government agencies, and educational institutions to make their purchases individually from vendors at higher prices or work through local library associations and ad-hoc arrangements. Their combined statewide market power will allow the Office of General Services to negotiate with electronic publishers for more favorable contract terms and is expected to result in significant savings for those who choose to participate in this procurement system.

“In today’s New York, the use of e-books, audio books, and other e-materials has surged,” said Assemblyman Tom Abinanti. “E-materials are more expensive than the print format for libraries putting greater stress on libraries at a time when they are already facing significant financial pressures. A statewide shared service plan is the answer.”

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