[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 79 (Thursday, May 21, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1255]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       BEST WISHES TO DR. JAMES BILLINGTON, LIBRARIAN OF CONGRESS

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                          HON. EARL BLUMENAUER

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 21, 2009

  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Madam Speaker, I rise to present my best wishes to 
Dr. James Billington, the Librarian of Congress, as he celebrates his 
80th birthday on June 1. He is a friend and an exceptional steward of 
the Library of Congress.
  The Library, a priceless although perhaps underappreciated resource, 
has evolved into so much more than a Congressional collection. It is 
truly the nation's library, containing a diverse multi-media collection 
of 140 million items on more than 600 miles of shelves.
  It is our good fortune that this institution has been wisely directed 
since 1987 by James Billington, a scholar and an outstanding public 
servant. During his tenure, Dr. Billington has expanded the Library's 
collection to include not just hardcopy works, but digital and 
interactive material as well. Dr. Billington has displayed a commitment 
to public access and engagement by sharing the Library's priceless 
collections widely and also delving more deeply to generate knowledge 
and distill wisdom. I look forward to the continued development of 
innovative programs such as the National Digital Library and now the 
World Digital Library, and the annual National Book Festival on the 
Mall. In his inaugural address as Librarian he said, ``This place has a 
destiny to be a living encyclopedia of democracy, not just a mausoleum 
of culture, but a catalyst for civilization.''
  I take great inspiration from the Library's art and architecture, and 
also in knowing that the Library of Congress is here for all. We've 
formed the bipartisan Congressional Library of Congress Caucus to 
promote this world class resource and to show appreciation for the 
Library, its collections, curators, and Librarian.
  Thanks to Dr. Billington's vision and efforts the Library of Congress 
is now a must-see destination for visitors in Washington. I greatly 
appreciate his efforts and leadership of this esteemed institution, and 
wish him the best.

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