SPRINGFIELD –– As America commemorates the 60th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor today, Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White has announced that the Digital Imaging Program of the Illinois State Library is making a quantity of unique World War II era materials available via the Find-It! Illinois website.
"One of the most significant events of the 20th century, World War II, continues to captivate Americans of all ages in the 21st century," White said. "New books, movies and television programs are produced each year that chronicle important events from World War II. The upcoming 60th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor will no doubt produce even more stirring remembrances of one of the most historic periods in our nation's history.
"I am pleased that the Illinois State Library has compiled this remarkable collection of World War II era materials for all citizens to peruse at one location. I especially hope that young people will absorb this fascinating collection of posters, pamphlets, books and other unique artifacts, to obtain a better understanding of an event that shaped and changed the lives of their parents and grandparents."
White said most of the material encompasses documents produced by the federal government during World War II. Computer users may access the material by pointing their browser at www.finditillinois.org, and clicking on "Illinois Images". Users may browse by title or search by keyword, but a search for "war" will retrieve all of the materials. White said teachers are welcome to use the materials for educational purposes.
