[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 121 (Friday, September 5, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1697]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING HAMMOND PUBLIC LIBRARY

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                        HON. PETER J. VISCLOSKY

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 4, 2003

  Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that 
I stand before you today to recognize the many accomplishments of the 
Hammond Public Library throughout its 100 years of service to the 
Northwest Indiana community. As the citizens of Hammond and all of 
Northwest Indiana celebrate the centennial of the Hammond Library, we 
are reminded of the dedication and valiant efforts that have been made 
to incorporate education and community leadership to the region.
  It was in 1903 that the first library board of Hammond was appointed. 
This board included Dr. W.F. Howat as the first president, Mr. J.G. 
lbach as the vice president, as well as many other distinguished 
appointed members. In 1904, the first library was moved into its own 
room in the Chicago Telephone Building. Mr. Andrew Carnegie, who at the 
time was contributing to the funding of public libraries across the 
nation, donated $27,000 to construct a new building for the library. On 
July 8, 1905, the library dubbed "Old Main," was dedicated as the first 
fully constructed library building in the area and it served the 
community well for 62 years.
  In 1910, the first branch office was established in a room above a 
fire station, and it was known as Branch No. 1. Three more branches 
were established in the next 12 years and the library deposited many 
collections of books in local department stores, the State Bank of 
Hammond, and also in private homes. Throughout the years, additional 
branches were opened to provide books and a community gathering space 
for the citizens of Hammond. The Hansen Branch was named after the 
first librarian of the Hammond Public Library, Ms. Marie Hansen. The 
branches continued to be named after influential leaders that helped 
make the dream of the library a reality.
  After a time of change in the community and lack of resources, some 
branches were forced to close. But because of the city's strong 
encouragement and need for the library, they renovated the main 
library, as well as other branches. No matter what challenges face the 
community, the Hammond Public Library continues to provide many 
important resources for the community including books, classes, summer 
reading programs for children, and many community outreach programs.
  Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished 
colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Hammond Public 
Library as well as its staff and community leaders on their 100th 
anniversary. Their many great accomplishments and service to the 
Hammond community will forever be cherished and commended.

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