[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 161 (Tuesday, October 23, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2210]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO THE KALAMAZOO PUBLIC LIBRARY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. FRED UPTON

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 23, 2007

  Mr. UPTON. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Kalamazoo 
Public Library on the 100th anniversary of its designation as a federal 
depository.
  Since 1907, the Kalamazoo Public Library has safeguarded the public's 
right to know by accepting, organizing, and maintaining all 
publications released by the U.S. Federal Government. Furthermore, the 
Kalamazoo Depository has provided the public of Southwest Michigan with 
free access to these government documents in an impartial environment 
along with professional research assistance.
  From census records and court rulings to financial aid forms and the 
federal tax code, the Kalamazoo Depository has become an easily 
accessible resource for those seeking information relating to the 
federal government.
  As a republic founded upon the ideals of governmental accountability 
and democratic participation, public access to such information is 
invaluable. The public's ability to know, question, and participate is 
the lifeblood of a free and open society such as ours, and not 
something to be taken for granted.
  Once again, I would like to personally recognize and thank the 
Kalamazoo Public Library and its staff for providing such an invaluable 
service to the citizens of this community. Southwest Michigan is truly 
a better place because of their contributions.

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