Foster Honors Local Libraries on House Floor

Washington, DC – On Tuesday, Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) took to the floor of the House of Representatives to commemorate National Library Week, and to speak about the work being done by libraries across the country.

You can watch Congressman Foster's speech here.

Text of Foster's remarks is below:

I rise today to commemorate National Library Week – and to celebrate how local libraries continue to be a vital resource in communities across this nation.

Today our libraries serve as much more than a place from which to borrow books.

Libraries have evolved beyond buildings of quiet study into engaging community centers – where people can gather to collaborate on projects, children can come to participate in educational activities, and job-seekers can use as a resource for help finding connections with employers.

National Library Week is a perfect opportunity to highlight the services being provided in libraries, by librarians and staff focused on creating environments where people can not only find the information they need – but use that information to better themselves and their communities.

Counting both public and private, there are nearly 120,000 libraries across the United States, which together employ more than 350,000 people, and provide services to millions of Americans each year.

In my district, I've seen this transformation taking place – where access to the latest technologies like 3D printers, and laser cutters, and video editing centers, can often be found at the local library.

Libraries across this country continue to serve as centers of education, research, and community involvement – and I extend my thanks to librarians and their staffs.

Thank you, and I yield back.

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