Montana Library Supporters Lobby U.S. Congress
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2007
Contact: Sara Groves
(406) 444-5357
HELENA)-- A group of six librarians and library supporters from Montana were among those urging Capitol Hill legislators to support libraries as part of National Library Legislative Day.
Held May 1 and 2, 2007, in Washington, D.C., National Library Legislative Day is a time for people who care about libraries to participate in advocacy training sessions, interact with Capitol Hill insiders, and visit congressional member offices to ask Congress to pass legislation that supports libraries.
The following Montanans attended National Library Legislative Day in 2007: Darlene Staffeldt, Montana State Librarian, Helena; Caroline Bitz, Montana State Library Commission, Box Elder; Lois Fitzpatrick, Director, Jack and Sallie Corette Library, Carroll College, Helena; Lyn McKinney, President, Montana Library Association and Librarian, Billings Senior High School, Billings; Bonnie Williamson, Director, Havre-Hill County Library, Havre; and Ryan Shaneybrook, 14, student at North Middle School, Great Falls.
These Montana library supporters met with Senators Jon Tester and Max Baucus and their staff, and with Representative Denny Rehberg to seek support for library legislation now pending in Congress. The group's goal was to raise awareness about the importance of federal funding and programs such as the E-rate discounts on telecommunications services for libraries and Library Services Technology Act for statewide library projects.
"Our Montana libraries need continued federal support for changing technology if we are to keep pace with the rapid growth in library use," said Staffeldt. "Although our local libraries receive most of their support from state and local funds, federal assistance stimulates local dollars and helps stretch them further."
"We are honored that our senators and representatives took time to meet with us to discuss these pertinent issues that affect every single Montanan," said Staffeldt. "Strong support of Montana libraries will only help build stronger Montana communities."
Through its statewide programs, the Montana State Library empowers Montanans; enhances learning in families and communities; builds 21st Century skills; and provides opportunities for civic participation. For more information, visit http://msl.mt.gov.
-END-
