[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 135 (Thursday, October 1, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1862]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN HONOR OF THE CUYAHOGA COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 1, 1998

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Cuyahoga County 
Public Library for 75 years of serving its community. Throughout its 
existence, the library has earned a reputation for conducting 
innovative programs and providing valuable services which have become 
models for libraries across the nation.
  When the state legislature passed a law enabling the establishment of 
a county district library for any area not served by a free public 
library, the ever-increasing population of Cuyahoga County saw an 
opportunity to build a library in its community. The Cuyahoga County 
Public Library was the first to be organized under the new law.
  The library rendered its services through schools, which proved to be 
the best way to serve residents eager for this resource. The schools 
had ample space and were willing to provide the available quarters 
rent-free. According to the County Library Report for 1924-1925, eight 
branches and 49 stations and classroom libraries were opened to the 
public.
  As it continued to expand throughout the years, the Cuyahoga County 
Library was restructured within the framework of a regional library 
system. It grew to include in-depth collections and subject 
specialities in specific areas of study. Annual circulation grew from 
six million in 1965 to 10 million by the mid-eighties.
  Today, this library has reached such success that it is ranked among 
the 10 busiest library systems in the nation. It has 29 locations, 
serving 47 suburban communities with a population of approximately 
608,000 people. I am pleased to honor such an achievement on the 75th 
anniversary of the Cuyahoga County Public Library.

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