[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 30 (Thursday, March 9, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E337]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING EDGERTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. TAMMY BALDWIN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 9, 2006

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend congratulations to 
the Edgerton Public Library in Edgerton, Wisconsin, on the occasion of 
its grand opening celebration. Housed in the Carnegie building 
originally built in 1907, the library is an impressive tribute to the 
people of Edgerton.
  A public library serves as the cornerstone of democracy. A library 
fosters intellectual freedom and makes available to all citizens an 
extensive information network. In a local setting, citizens have access 
to global resources of information. The educational importance of a 
public library is immensely important in improving the community by 
providing access to higher learning, A library is a requirement for a 
cultivated democratic society.
  A public library allows citizens to perform their civic duties placed 
upon them in our noble democratic nation. It not only provides free 
worldwide access to information, but also is a place where residents 
can obtain information about their community, and where internet 
access, tax forms and voter registration forms are provided. The role 
of the public library is essential in supporting a democratic state. 
The Edgerton Public Library has gone beyond its civic duty in providing 
these services for the public.
  In spite of the many challenges they faced, the people of Edgerton 
were committed to this important project. I am proud to recognize the 
efforts of a community that created a dream and followed through to 
success. I join the residents of Edgerton in celebrating the grand 
opening of the newly expanded and renovated Edgerton Public Library and 
wish them the best for many years to come.

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