[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 71 (Friday, June 9, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E923]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      TRIBUITE TO LARRY WILKINSON--EXTRAORDINARY LIBRARY ADVOCATE

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                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 7, 2000

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this moment to 
recognize Larry Wilkinson for receiving the Extraordinary Library 
Advocate of the 20th Century award that is presented by the ALA/ALTA 
National Advocacy Honor Role. This award recognizes individuals who 
encourage and promote library services at both the state and national 
levels. Larry was one of five individuals chosen for this award.
  Some of Larry's accomplishments, with regards to his library service, 
include initiating the inception of two public libraries in the State 
of Colorado. Perhaps his greatest achievement was the restoration of a 
former jailhouse into the current library in the town of Telluride. 
Today, Larry volunteers one day a week to continue his public passion 
and also serves on the Colorado Council of Library Development.
  The many contributions that Larry has made have markedly improved the 
publics' access to information, especially in the Telluride area. 
Before Larry's involvement and the creation of the library, residents 
would have to travel to the city of Montrose in order to obtain access 
to literary materials. Thanks to Larry, that is no longer the case.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to pay tribute to Larry's efforts and 
to thank him for his work to provide access to information that is only 
available in public libraries. Larry is exceedingly worthy of this 
prestigious award and deserves the praise of this body.

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