[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 4]
[House]
[Pages 5320-5322]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                    SUPPORTING NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK

  Ms. CHU. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the 
resolution (H. Res. 1222) supporting the goals and ideals of National 
Library Week.
  The Clerk read the title of the resolution.
  The text of the resolution is as follows:

                              H. Res. 1222

       Whereas the Nation's school, academic, public, and special 
     libraries make a difference in the lives of millions of 
     people in the United States, today, more than ever;
       Whereas librarians are trained professionals, helping 
     people of all ages and backgrounds find and interpret the 
     information they need to live, learn, and work in a 
     challenging economy;
       Whereas libraries are part of the American Dream, places 
     for opportunity, education, self-help, and lifelong learning;
       Whereas according to a December 2008 National Center for 
     Education Statistics (NCES) report, public library use 
     increased to 1,400,000,000 visits nationwide during fiscal 
     year 2006, among all types of library users, continuing a 
     long term trend of increased library usage;
       Whereas libraries play a vital role in supporting the 
     quality of life in their communities;
       Whereas libraries help people of all ages discover a world 
     of knowledge, both in person and online, as well as provide 
     personal service and assistance in finding needed 
     information;
       Whereas libraries are a key player in the national 
     discourse on intellectual freedom and equity of access;
       Whereas libraries are narrowing the ``digital divide'', by 
     providing no-fee public computer and Internet access to 
     accommodate the growing need for access to digital and online 
     information, including e-government, continuing education, 
     and employment opportunities;
       Whereas in 71 percent of communities, libraries have the 
     only no-fee public computers; and
       Whereas libraries, librarians, library workers, and 
     supporters across the United States will celebrate National 
     Library Week, April 11-17, 2010: Now, therefore, be it
       Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
       (1) supports the goals and ideals of National Library Week;
       (2) encourages all residents to visit a library to take 
     advantage of the wonderful library resources available, and 
     to thank their librarians and library workers for making 
     information accessible to all who walk through the library's 
     doors; and
       (3) supports librarians' efforts to ensure that all 
     Americans can continue to access 21st century library 
     services in school, public, academic, and special libraries.

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentlewoman from 
California (Ms. Chu) and the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Roe) each 
will control 20 minutes.
  The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from California.


                             General Leave

  Ms. CHU. Mr. Speaker, I request 5 legislative days during which 
Members may revise and extend and insert extraneous material on House 
Resolution 1222 into the Record.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the 
gentlewoman from California?
  There was no objection.
  Ms. CHU. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself as much time as I may consume.
  I rise today in support of House Resolution 1222, which encourages 
all Americans to take advantage of the numerous resources libraries 
make available. Across the country, libraries help develop communities 
by bringing people of all nationalities, ages, and socioeconomic 
backgrounds together to enjoy the pleasures of literature, media, and 
new technology. Libraries foster national discourse on intellectual 
freedom, and provide informational equity across the Nation. Libraries 
not only provide free resources to adults and children, but they also 
preserve historical artifacts and information, highlighting societal 
achievements.
  Today we have nearly 123,000 libraries nationwide playing a vital 
role in creating vibrant, energized communities. Our very own Library 
of Congress sponsors the annual National Book Festival. Authors, 
illustrators, and poets gather at the Nation's Capitol to promote 
reading and literacy in all 50 States.

                              {time}  1415

  In fact, President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama helped sponsor 
this event as honorary chairs. Last September, the annual National Book 
Festival was a huge success. With 80 best-selling authors and over 
1,000 volunteers, scores of people gathered to promote reading to 
children.
  The Library of Congress is also a great resource for the public. As 
the largest library in the world, the Library of Congress holds more 
than 120 million items on approximately 530 miles of bookshelves. The 
collections include more than 18 million books, 2.5 million recordings, 
12 million photographs, 4.5 million maps, and 54 million manuscripts.
  National Library Week continues to commend librarians who help the 
public interpret the information they need to live, learn, and navigate 
their way into today's challenging and complicated economy. By 
providing free educational opportunities and a safe place for lifelong 
learning, libraries help people to explore their curiosities and to 
foster community involvement in education.
  I want to thank Representative Ehlers for his leadership and for 
bringing this important resolution forward.
  Again, I want to extend my gratitude towards libraries for their work 
in our communities, and I ask my colleagues to support this important 
resolution.
  Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
  Mr. ROE of Tennessee. I yield myself such time as I may consume.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 1222, 
supporting the goals and ideals of National Library Week. I also would 
like to associate my remarks with the gentlewoman from California.
  First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national 
observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries 
across the country each year in April. It is a time to celebrate the 
contributions of our Nation's libraries and librarians and to promote 
library use and support.
  In 1957, the National Book Committee developed a plan for National 
Library Week based on the idea that, once people were motivated to 
read, they would support and use libraries. With cooperation from 
various organizations, the first National Library Week was observed in 
1958 with the theme ``Wake Up and Read!''
  Libraries play a vital role in supporting the quality of life in 
their communities. The digital divide has narrowed because libraries 
provide no-fee public computer and Internet access to meet the growing 
need for access to digital and online information, including 
eGovernment, continuing education and employment opportunities. 
Libraries help us discover a world of knowledge, both in person and 
online, and are a key player in the national discourse on intellectual 
freedom and equity of access. According to the National Center for 
Education Statistics' December 2008 report, library use was up to 1.4 
billion visits nationwide among all types of library users, continuing 
a long-term trend of increased library usage.
  By recognizing National Library Week, we show our appreciation to 
libraries, librarians, and staff across America. I am honored to 
support this resolution, and I ask my colleagues to join me.
  Just as an aside, Mr. Speaker, I would like to encourage everyone,

[[Page 5321]]

whether they are parents, aunts, uncles, or just mentors, to take 
children to a library and to read and mentor them. It's a great place 
to do it. It's a great place to meet, to learn, and to educate 
yourself.
  I would like to thank Congressman Vernon Ehlers for introducing this.
  I reserve the balance of my time.
  Ms. CHU. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize for 3 minutes the 
gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis).
  Mr. DAVIS of Illinois. I want to thank the gentlewoman from 
California for yielding time.
  Mr. Speaker, I rise to express strong support for H. Res. 1222, 
supporting the goals and ideals of National Library Week.
  The science fiction novelist Frank Herbert stated, ``The beginning of 
knowledge is the discovery of something we do not understand.'' Our 
national libraries serve as a much needed conduit by which we, as 
American citizens, gain more understanding of the world around us.
  First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national 
observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries 
across the country each April. It is a time to celebrate the 
contributions of our Nation's libraries and librarians and to promote 
library use and support. All types of libraries--school, public, and 
academic--participate. The City of Chicago is home to exactly 79 public 
libraries and to many private libraries with information ranging from 
cultural specific research to academic.
  In my congressional district, the Seventh Congressional District of 
Illinois, we serve as the home of the headquarters for the American 
Library Association. I am proud to have this great organization in my 
district, and I am pleased that many of its staff members are my 
constituents. We have libraries that are renowned, both public and 
private, such as the Harold Washington Library and the Newberry 
Library.
  Last evening, at a town hall meeting in Westchester, Illinois, one of 
the trustees of the library board made it known to everybody present 
that libraries are vitally important, and I was very pleased to agree 
with him.
  I also want to congratulate Robert Morris College, one of the 
academic institutions in my congressional district, for their 
installation of a new library that recently opened. It is magnificent.
  Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the 
actions of the House of Representatives in recognizing the importance 
of National Library Week. I strongly support H. Res. 1222, which 
recognizes the significant contributions of libraries, librarians, and 
library workers to our nation's communities.
  In my home state of Georgia, public library usage has increased more 
than 10 percent from 2008 to 2009. Libraries are narrowing the digital 
divide by providing no-fee public computer and Internet access to 
accommodate the growing need for access to digital and online 
information. In 2009, the number of public access computer sessions at 
Georgia libraries topped 15 million.
  The services provided by public libraries are in greater demand in 
this economy. Americans use their public library's free Internet access 
to assist in their job search. When people economize, they check out 
books, magazines, and DVDs instead of buying them. In 2009, more than 
68 percent of Americans had library cards, which is the greatest number 
of Americans with library cards since the American Library Association 
began measuring library card usage in 1990.
  Libraries make a difference in the lives of millions of people in the 
United States. They are places for opportunity, education, and lifelong 
learning. Libraries allow those who may not be able to afford books to 
read and explore other cultures. Libraries are a key player in the 
national discourse on intellectual freedom and equity of access.
  During the District Work Period, I was able to tour the Embry Hills 
Branch Library in Chamblee for the dedication ceremony. I also met with 
the DeKalb County Library Director, Darro Willey, and Ted Rinehart of 
the CEO's administration, to hear about the programs and educational 
activities that are taking place.
  Libraries in the Fourth District are doing great work. The DeKalb 
County Library offers tax assistance. It also gets the community 
involved by using designs from DeKalb County residents for its library 
cards. The Gwinnett County Library allows patrons to improve their 
language skills by practicing conversational English.
  Libraries are vital in helping their communities find and use 
information and are essential to supporting student achievement. They 
are essential institutions because they provide information that allows 
citizens to make informed decisions. They level the playing field by 
making the world of information available to anyone seeking it.
  During National Library Week, I am especially pleased to celebrate 
the libraries, librarians, and library workers. I will continue to 
encourage residents in the Fourth District of Georgia to take advantage 
of the tremendous public service libraries and librarians provide.
  I strongly support H. Res. 1222 and urge my colleagues to do the 
same.
  Ms. JACKSON LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today in 
support of H. Res. 1222, Supporting the goals and ideals of National 
Library Week. I would like to thank my colleague, Rep. Vernon Ehlers, 
for introducing this resolution.
  I support this legislation because on National Library Week, April 
11th through the 17th, communities across the U.S. will recognize the 
contributions made by all library workers including librarians, support 
staff, and others who make library services possible. It also promotes 
increased public awareness of the significant contributions made by 
libraries to further the academic achievement and lifelong learning of 
our students. In addition National Library Week strengthens a belief in 
the value of libraries and positions librarianship as a desirable 
career opportunity.
  This year's theme, ``Communities thrive at your library,'' 
illustrates how the library is at the root of a thriving community, 
reminding individuals and informing others that the library is the 
place where people of all backgrounds learn and grow together. 
America's libraries and their workers remain valuable community assets 
during tough economic times. Also, with more businesses requiring 
online job applications, job-seeking resources are among the most 
critical and popular resources available in U.S. public libraries. 
Libraries provide not only the hardware and software applications, but 
they also offer skilled librarians who help teach people how to use the 
Internet and find the information they need quickly. As the wave of 
technology has changed the way we receive and transmit information, the 
Nation's libraries and their staffs have met those changes head on!
  I would also like to take this time to emphasize the need for pay 
equity for library workers, even in this economy. Women librarian 
salaries continue to be lower than male library employees. The wage gap 
for the Nation remains with women earning 77 cents for every dollar a 
man earns. Library employees also continue to receive lower salaries in 
comparison with traditionally male occupations with comparable 
education requirements and job responsibilities.
  In recognizing the valuable contributions to our Nation and citizens 
across this country, from libraries, we must not forget the hardworking 
individuals who provide such services. Such services will enable us to 
educate our citizens and bring them into the era of technology. This 
week will also bring to light the need to adequately compensate the 
staffers which provide these services.
  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in 
support of National Libraries Week. The foundation of our learning and 
literacy is based in books and the written word. Our Nation's libraries 
offer access to books, newspapers, magazines, the Internet and other 
informational materials. There is no other place where any individual 
who owns a library card can go in and access materials free of charge 
that promotes learning, discovery, opportunity, and self improvement. 
It is our libraries and librarians that provide this to millions of 
Americans each year.
  While our libraries hold the materials, it is our librarians that 
often hold the key. Librarians are the caring and accessible 
individuals who lead us on that adventure to knowledge.
  Lady Bird Johnson once said, ``Perhaps no place in any community is 
so totally democratic as the town library. The only entrance 
requirement is interest.'' Libraries reach across barriers of age, 
ethnicity, and income to offer a world of learning, discovery and 
access to millions of Americans each year.
  For those who are trapped in the digital divide, libraries are on the 
front line in providing computer and Internet access free of charge and 
the resources on how to properly use that technology.
  I am especially proud of our many Dallas Public and School Libraries. 
In addition to standard library services they offer events to benefit 
the community, including everything from classes of song and reading 
for infants and their parents to tax preparation for senior

[[Page 5322]]

citizens. They are truly committed to the people of Dallas, their well-
being, and their access to learning, and I commend their service.
  I am a proud supporter of National Libraries Week and thank all of 
those individuals who serve inquisitive minds both young and old in our 
nation's libraries.
  Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, in Oregon, we pride ourselves on our 
strong community and a commitment to quality of life and education. 
Public libraries are a vital piece of this fabric and, in fact, Oregon 
has the second highest circulation of public library materials in the 
nation and the only 5-star library in the Northwest. As the economic 
downturn has pushed family budgets to the brink, these resources are 
more important than ever. In addition to public reading and visual 
materials, libraries offer Internet and computer access for all, free 
of charge. Many also serve as vibrant community spaces for gatherings 
and events.
  Another library that deserves particular recognition is our very own 
Library of Congress. To highlight the world-class work of this 
institution, in 2008 I formed the Library of Congress Caucus, now 
nearly 70 Members strong. My friend Congressman Zach Wamp serves as co-
chair and our goal is to draw further attention to the nation's 
library, its collections and curators, and to encourage further use by 
Members of Congress and the public.
  The Library of Congress not only houses the outstanding Congressional 
Research Service, it also offers 1.6 million visitors access to 15 
million primary-source documents and operates the Veteran's History 
Project. One of my favorite programs, the Surplus Books Program, is an 
innovative service through which Members may send extra books from the 
Library of Congress to schools and libraries in their home district. At 
a time when funding for public schools and libraries is scarce, this is 
a simple way to reduce waste and distribute excess resources to our 
communities and schools where they are critically needed.
  I strongly encourage members to take advantage of these extraordinary 
programs and resources, and congratulate all our nation's libraries, 
librarians, and library-enthusiasts.
  Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my 
time.
  Ms. CHU. Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of House Resolution 1222.
  I yield back the balance of my time.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the 
gentlewoman from California (Ms. Chu) that the House suspend the rules 
and agree to the resolution, H. Res. 1222.
  The question was taken.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds 
being in the affirmative, the ayes have it.
  Ms. CHU. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
  The yeas and nays were ordered.
  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX and the 
Chair's prior announcement, further proceedings on this motion will be 
postponed.

                          ____________________