[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 111 (Tuesday, July 30, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1161]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF HANDLEY REGIONAL LIBRARY

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                           HON. FRANK R. WOLF

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 30, 2013

  Mr. WOLF. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th 
anniversary of Handley Regional Library in Winchester, Virginia.
  The original Handley Library building has long been an important 
architectural and historical site in Winchester. It first opened in 
1913 and was designed by architects J. Stewart Barney and Henry Otis 
Chapman.
  The growth and change the library has gone through over the past 100 
years has been extraordinary. In 1915, the library's annual attendance 
was 52,902. Today, more than 357,000 guests visit the facility each 
year. The collection of books and periodicals has expanded 
significantly as well. The library's collection totaled 6,000 in 1915; 
today, the collection contains over 302,000 books, magazines and 
digital materials, including audio books, e-books, CDs and DVDs.
  The library's growth over the years is due in part to the growth in 
the Shenandoah Valley region. Today, the population served by the 
library is 120,000, an increase of nearly 100,000 since 1915.
  Additionally, Handley Library is unique because it is one of three 
libraries in the regional system. It became regional when Frederick 
County joined the system in 1979 and Clarke County joined in 1981. 
Regional systems ensure the libraries can all provide excellent 
services without duplicating administrative costs. This has saved 
taxpayers money, which is crucial during these economically challenging 
times.
  Handley Regional Library is a treasure for the northern Shenandoah 
Valley community. From computer literacy programs, to youth and adult 
programs, to the vast collection of regional history and genealogy 
located in its outstanding archives section, the library provides 
exceptional facilities and services for area residents.
  The success of the library today is due to director Trish Ridgeway 
and the entire library staff, as well as the generous support of the 
Friends of Handley Library and its many volunteers.
  I would like to particularly recognize the efforts of Trish Ridgeway, 
who during her 20 years as its director has overseen several of the 
regional library system's construction projects, including the major 
renovation of the original library building in Winchester. As she 
prepares to retire at the end of September, I want to thank Trish for 
her leadership and wish her all the best for retirement.
  There will be a gala celebration in honor of the 100th anniversary at 
Handley Library on August 24, 2013. Congratulations to the library, its 
staff and the volunteers as they celebrate this very important 
milestone.

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