SPRINGFIELD –– Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White welcomed more than 300 members of the Illinois library community to Springfield for Library Advocacy Day. This annual event offers the library community a chance to meet with members of the Illinois General Assembly to discuss issues facing their libraries.
"I am extremely impressed by the dedication, enthusiasm, and professionalism of the librarians I meet while traveling throughout this state," White told participants during welcoming remarks at the Illinois State Library. "Citizens today have access to a wide variety of options when it comes to information, education and entertainment. But you and I know that our libraries are still the best resource available to meet those needs."
White said he is particularly pleased that Illinois libraries are serving as host sites for Project Next Generation, a mentoring program he created for teenagers. The program is currently in place at 17 public libraries throughout the state.
White told participants it is important for them to tell lawmakers how federal and state grants directly affect their local libraries.
"You and I know how valuable our libraries are to the state of Illinois," White said. "I can assure you that every member sitting in the House and Senate cares about our libraries. But they still need to hear from you. They need to hear your personal success stories. By being vocal and united, today and every day, you can help keep our libraries strong and vibrant and be the repositories of excellence our patrons cherish and enjoy."
The Illinois State Library, the Illinois Library Association, the Illinois School Library Media Association, and the Illinois System Directors Organization sponsor Library Advocacy Day.
