[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 13]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 19151-19152]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




 IN RECOGNITION OF THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF SEWAREN FREE PUBLIC LIBRARY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 12, 2013

  Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Sewaren 
Free Public Library

[[Page 19152]]

on its 100th Anniversary. The library has been an integral part of the 
local community since 1913 and continues to provide residents an 
opportunity to learn and a place to gather.
  Officially opened in December of 1913, the idea for the Sewaren Free 
Public Library was proposed in August of 1913 by a member of the 
Sewaren Civic Association, Mrs. Blanche B. Balfour. Fundraisers were 
held by supporters, and within a few months, committees were formed and 
requests were sent out for books and periodicals. Upon its opening, the 
library had acquired about 417 volumes.
  By 1994, the Sewaren Free Public Library was one of many small 
branches within the Woodbridge Township Public Library system. After 
being closed due to funding cuts by the Woodbridge Township Public 
Library system, it was re-opened as an independent library. The Sewaren 
Free Public Library is currently run by a volunteer Board of Trustees.
  Since its founding, the Sewaren Free Public Library has supported and 
been supported by the local community. It provides services and 
resources to residents, offering computer access, media services, pre-
school programs, and bingo for senior citizens.
  Mr. Speaker, once again, please join me in celebrating the 100th 
Anniversary of the Sewaren Free Public Library. Its continued service 
to the community is truly deserving of this body's recognition.

                          ____________________