[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 75 (Friday, May 24, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E929]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                BROWARD COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM WINS AWARD

                                 ______


                         HON. E. CLAY SHAW, JR.

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 23, 1996

  Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a south Florida 
institution which has recently received the highest honor in its field. 
The American Libraries Association and the Library Journal have named 
the Broward County Library System, the ``1996 National Library of the 
Year.''
  The Broward County Library System has consistently provided the 
residents of south Florida with excellent service, valuable resources, 
and vital information. The library system has become a fixture within 
the community, and the community support is extraordinary. The library 
draws more attendance than all the Florida sports teams combined. The 
Miami Herald proclaimed the library to be ``one of the Broward County 
Commission's most important achievements.'' Support such as this 
illustrates the Broward County Library's successful pursuit of 
excellence and innovative approaches to library service.
  In our growing age of technology and telecommunications, the Broward 
County Library System has provided state of the art resources which are 
in high demand. The library volunteered to pilot the FreeNet System to 
enhance access in providing the South Florida community with electronic 
mail, a public forum to exchange ideas, and internet service to 
research data bases. During its expansion in service and information, 
the library system has proven its commitment to develop a service that 
will meet the technological standards of the 21st century.
  Through its program of service and dedication, the Broward County 
Library System has kept the taxpayer in high regard. For example, the 
library system formed a partnership with Broward Community College in 
order to consolidate financial resources for operational and 
construction services. This partnership has saved taxpayers 
$17,000,000--which is the total cost of building and operating two 
libraries. Both the public and private sectors have enabled the Broward 
County Library System to provide essential service, as well as a 
commitment to education.
  The Broward County Library System has provided educational standards 
that have been adopted and practiced by educators. The library has 
teamed up with local schools, colleges and universities in providing 
its coveted resources for all age groups.
  Mr. Speaker, throughout this country there are many individuals who 
are dedicated to strengthening our community spirit, one such 
individual is Mr. Samuel Morrison, Director of the Libraries Division 
of Broward County. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending 
congratulations to Sam Morrison and the staff of the Broward County 
Library System on the receipt of the 1996 National Library of the Year 
Award.

                          ____________________