[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 143 (Wednesday, September 6, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1167]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA LIBRARIES

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                           HON. KEITH ELLISON

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 6, 2017

  Mr. ELLISON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the University of 
Minnesota Libraries, which has been awarded the 2017 National Medal for 
Museum and Library Service. Their devotion to innovative and accessible 
library service has made them one of the nation's standout public 
research libraries.
  Every year, the Institute of Museum and Library Services selects ten 
institutions that best represent the stewardship of public knowledge. 
Throughout its 23-year history, the IMLS has only selected three 
academic libraries for the recognition. This is a fitting recognition 
of the amount of community-driven work the UMN Libraries undertakes. As 
a public research library, their work expands far beyond the University 
walls to our state's 5.5 million residents and beyond.
  As I wrote in my letter of nomination for the University of Minnesota 
Libraries: I have been moved by the deep commitment the Libraries have 
shown to our community. Its mission is realized every day through the 
dedication, creativity, and human kindness represented in the programs 
and services it provides. It is a shining example of how a public 
institution can make a great difference in the lives of people within 
its walls and beyond its borders. I am proud to be associated with the 
University Libraries and believe it to be an exemplary candidate for 
this honor.
  I am thrilled to congratulate the UMN Libraries for receiving the 
U.S. government's top honor for library service to the community. I 
look forward to seeing the way they expand the pursuit of knowledge in 
coming decades.

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