[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 75 (Friday, May 24, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E897]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO THE ARAPAHOE LIBRARY DISTRICT

                                 ______


                           HON. DAN SCHAEFER

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 23, 1996

  Mr. SCHAEFER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Arapahoe 
Library District on its 30th anniversary. This is an operation that 
began back in April 1966 with a used bookmobile and 4,000 books 
borrowed from the State of Colorado. Now, the district operates 8 
branch libraries throughout Arapahoe County and serves over 100,000 
people annually.
  The Arapahoe Library District is a shining example of a locally run 
organization that provides effective programs without appropriations 
and regulations from Washington.
  Besides promoting the obviously worthy cause of literacy, the 
district also sponsors an annual photo contest and a children's summer 
reading program which focuses on a specific topic--this summer's 
suggested reading deals with the history of the West. It also provides 
an information center available to small businesses and technology 
classes on how to utilize the internet. Another mark of distinction is 
the Glendale branch's dual function as library and community center for 
the local population of Russian-Jewish immigrants. Here they receive 
vital classes in English and general life-skills.
  The Arapahoe Library District is an example of how locally run 
institutions can contribute to the educational benefit of the 
surrounding communities. Thus, it is with great pleasure I join with my 
colleagues in the House in commending the board of trustees, the 
employees, and the over 100,000 patrons of the Arapahoe Library 
District on its 30th anniversary.

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