Library advocates tell legislators to protect library funding

Hundreds Gather in D.C. for 39^th Annual National Library Legislative Day

Washington, D.C.— More than 350 librarians and library supporters from across the country converged in Washington, D.C. from May 7–8, 2013, to meet with members of Congress to discuss key library issues during the American Library Association’s 39^th annual National Library Legislative Day. The event focused on supporting federal funding for national libraries.

Advocates discussed the need to fund the Library Services and Technology Act, support legislation that gives people who use libraries access to federally-funded scholarly journal articles and continue funding that provides school libraries with needed funds for materials.

“Libraries are vital to connecting people with the information and critical resources they need to find jobs, learn new skills, complete homework assignments and educate themselves,” said Emily Sheketoff, executive director of the American Library Association’s Washington office.

“The advocates who came to Washington are true 'nation builders' that help citizens reach their potential.”

The event included a virtual advocacy component for library supporters who could not attend the Washington meetings—advocates worked remotely to connect with legislators via phone calls, emails and social media platforms.

To learn more about National Library Legislative Day and view photos of the event, go to http://www.ala.org/advocacy/advleg/nlld.

###

About the American Library Association

The American Library Association is the oldest and largest library association in the world,with more than 58,000 members in academic, public, school, government, and special libraries. The mission of the American Library Association is to provide leadership for the development, promotion and improvement of library and information services and the profession of librarianship in order to enhance learning and ensure access to information for all.

###