American Library Association praises Rep. Hoekstra, House colleagues for supporting Library Services and Technology Act

Contact: Frank DiFulvio


202-628-8410

For Immediate Release


March 6, 2003

American Library Association praises Rep. Hoekstra, House colleagues for supporting Library Services and Technology Act

Reauthorization passes House with 416-to-2 vote

(Washington D.C.) - The House of Representatives today passed the reauthorization of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) by an overwhelming vote of 416 to 2, reconfirming this nation's continuing support and commitment to one of America's most respected and beloved community institutions - our nation's libraries.

LSTA is the only federal program exclusively created for libraries and is administered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The law's definition of a library includes institutions of all types and sizes, such as public, academic, research, school, state, and even digital libraries. The law includes grants for Native American and Native Hawaiian library services, as well as National Leadership grants aimed at education and training, research and demonstration projects, the preservation of library materials, and model projects between libraries and museums.

"Today's library is not simply a place where books are read and borrowed. It is a place where a love for reading is born and renewed again and again, and where information is sought and discovered," said ALA Washington Office Executive Director Emily Sheketoff. "American libraries also coordinate and provide comprehensive services to meet the needs of their communities and people of all ages - including providing free Internet access, family literacy classes, homework help, mentoring programs, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, job training, and writing workshops."

The ALA would like to especially thank Rep. Peter Hoekstra (R-MI) for his hard work in winning such overwhelming support for reauthorization in the House. He is a long-time friend and supporter of the library community - who was honored by the Michigan Library Association in 2002 as its Legislator of the Year.

"Libraries are the cornerstone of strong and vibrant communities," Hoekstra said "Today's library provides more than just books, they also coordinate a comprehensive approach to community development and services, and serve as a natural partner with our nation's schools in promoting early learning through reading."