res24191

R 191

2024 -- S 2977
Enacted 04/09/2024

S E N A T E R E S O L U T I O N

PROCLAIMING APRIL 7-13, 2024, TO BE "NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

Introduced By: Senators McKenney, Lawson, Gallo, DiPalma, Gu, F. Lombardi, Raptakis, Ujifusa, Bissaillon, and Ciccone

Date Introduced: April 09, 2024

WHEREAS, Libraries of all types are at the heart of their cities, towns, schools and

campuses, serving the communities in Rhode Island; and

WHEREAS, Libraries are accessible and inclusive places that foster a sense of belonging

and community; and

WHEREAS, Today's libraries and their services extend far beyond the four walls of a

building and everyone is welcome to use their resources; and

WHEREAS, For people lacking broadband at home, libraries provide access to

computers and Wi-Fi, even checking out Internet hotspots and laptops; and

WHEREAS, Libraries strive to develop and maintain programs and collections that are as

diverse as the communities they serve and ensure equity of access for all; and

WHEREAS, In times of crisis, libraries, librarians, and library workers play an invaluable

role in supporting their communities, both in person and virtually; and

WHEREAS, Libraries provide access to digital resources including e-books and lifelong

learning tools; and

WHEREAS, Libraries are cornerstones of democracy, promoting the free exchange of

information and ideas for all; and

WHEREAS, Libraries defend the right to read and the premise that "free people deserve

to read freely"; and

WHEREAS, Libraries have long served as trusted and treasured institutions for all

members of the community regardless of race, ethnicity, creed, ability, sexual orientation, gender

identity, or socio-economic status; and

WHEREAS, Libraries, librarians and library workers are joining library supporters and

advocates across the nation to celebrate "National Library Week"; now, therefore be it

RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island hereby proclaims April 7-13,

2024, to be "National Library Week" in the State of Rhode Island; and be it further

RESOLVED, That this Senate hereby thanks Rhode Island's libraries, librarians and

library workers for their service to our community. During this week, we encourage all residents

to visit their library to access resources and services. Because of you, libraries transform lives and

communities; and be it further

RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to

transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the Office of Library and Information Services,

and each Rhode Island City and Town Libraries.

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