[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 18019]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF CALIFORNIA

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                            HON. ZOE LOFGREN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 27, 2007

  Ms. ZOE LOFGREN of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to 
recognize the American Library Association for its annual conference 
being held this week in Washington, DC. I am also pleased to recognize 
Melinda Cervantes, County Librarian of Santa Clara County for 
representing our County librarians at this conference.
  I have always supported America's public libraries and believe they 
are an essential part of building stronger and more educated 
communities. One of the basic tenets of democracy--equal access to 
opportunity--is played out every day in America's public libraries. 
Their doors are open and welcoming to anyone without having to show a 
diploma, a bank balance, proof of residency or any other qualifier. You 
can read, learn, think, create, analyze, research, and contemplate any 
topic that might improve your mind, your skills, your daily life, or 
your future. The wealth of knowledge and opportunity available at the 
fingertips of all who possess a library card is powerful.

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