[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 81 (Monday, June 14, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1096]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


   CELEBRATION OF THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC 
                                LIBRARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. NANCY PELOSI

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 14, 2004

   Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 125th anniversary 
of the San Francisco Public Library on June 7, 2004. Since its opening 
in 1879, the San Francisco Public Library has been a symbol of 
intellectual freedom.
  Many years ago, I was proud to serve on the San Francisco Public 
Library Commission. The library has provided five generations of San 
Franciscans with wonderful literature, educational materials and a 
sanctuary for learning.
   San Francisco is fortunate to be the home of the state-of-the-art 
Main Library and 26, soon to be 27, neighborhood libraries. The library 
is committed to presenting a varied collection of works, respecting the 
diverse needs and populations of San Franciscans and consistently 
pursuing intellectual equality. It now offers focus collections 
pertaining to the African American, Gay and Lesbian, International, 
Chinese, Filipino, and teen populations and the environment.
   This is not only a day to celebrate this magnificent San Francisco 
institution, but also a time to recognize the many dedicated and 
skilled librarians and volunteers who make it possible for the library 
to offer such a wide range of services. Together, they ensure that the 
library will continue to be a cultural and educational center of 
opportunity.
   Thomas Jefferson wisely counseled that democracy is dependent upon 
an informed and educated citizenry. The public library is an instrument 
of opportunity, allowing all Americans access to the knowledge and 
information essential to our nation's greatness. The San Francisco 
Public Library has been an outstanding example of a free public library 
committed to bettering our civic life.
   I proudly join my constituents in celebrating the 125th anniversary 
of this historic San Francisco establishment.

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