New Jersey State Library Campuses

The main campus of the New Jersey State Library in Trenton serves as the primary research hub for state government officials, legislators, judiciary, Thomas Edison State University affiliates, and the general public. It focuses on comprehensive collections in New Jersey history, genealogy, government documents, legal resources, and digital databases, supporting in-depth research and lifelong learning without traditional degree programs but through workshops, webinars, and expert assistance.

• Genealogy and Family History: Approximately 18,000 items including 6,000 family histories, 1,000 NJ city directories, church records, and electronic access to Ancestry.com Library Edition and HeritageQuest.
• New Jersey Local History: Town, county, and church histories, historic newspapers via microform and digital collections like the NJ Digital Newspaper Project.
• Government Publications: Complete NJ state documents, federal depository library resources for legislative and agency publications.
• Legal Research: NJ statutes, case reporters, legislative histories, federal and state legal databases.
• Newspapers and Periodicals: Extensive NJ newspaper microfilm collection and current subscriptions.
• Electronic Resources: Databases for history, business, health, and more, accessible onsite.

Visitors can attend webinars on topics like estate planning, historical events, and effective communication, enhancing research skills specific to these collections.

The Talking Book and Braille Center (TBBC), a specialist facility of the New Jersey State Library, focuses on providing accessible reading materials and technology training for New Jersey residents who are blind, visually impaired, or have print disabilities. As a regional library of the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, it offers free services including home delivery, downloads, and specialized programs to promote literacy and independence.

• Audiobooks and Talking Magazines: Over 100,000 titles and 40 magazines available by mail (postage-free) or BARD download service.
• Braille Books and Materials: Braille books, music, and large print for children, teens, and adults.
• Digital Talking Book Machines (DTBM): Free long-term loans of specialized players to individuals and serving libraries.
• Technology Training: Audio, braille, and adaptive technology workshops conducted at select public libraries statewide.
• Library Equal Access Program (LEAP): Free courses teaching accessibility features on Apple iPads for seniors aged 55 and older with vision loss.
• News Reading Service: Audio access to newspapers, grocery ads, and magazines via internet, phone, email, or mobile app.
• Youth Services: Specialized collections and resources for children and teens with disabilities, including partnerships with schools and libraries.

TBBC supports institutions serving eligible patrons and offers outreach exhibits on print disability history and technology.