SENATOR WEBB RESOLUTION DECLARING APRIL 23rd “NATIONAL ADOPT A LIBRARY DAY” PASSES SENATE
- Resolution Encourages Book Donations to Communities in Need

FROM THE OFFICE OF SENATOR WEBB

April 23, 2008

Contact: Jessica Smith – 202-228-5185
Kimberly Hunter – 202-228-5258


Washington, D.C. – The Senate last night unanimously approved a resolution offered by Senator Jim Webb (D-VA) proclaiming April 23rd “National Adopt A Library Day.”  The measure recognizes the importance of libraries to local communities and encourages Americans to donate their unused books to schools, libraries and prisons.

  Last year, Governor Tim Kaine declared April 23rd “Adopt A Library Day” in Virginia, celebrating the Commonwealth’s nearly 360 public libraries.  The resolution acknowledges these institutions are valuable learning centers for children and families from all backgrounds and rely on donations from individuals to expand their collections.  In 1995, the United Nations also designated April 23rd “World Book Day.”    

“As a writer, I recognize the important role that libraries play in promoting literacy and inspiring creativity in Americans,” said Senator Webb.  “Books enrich our lives and help shape our outlook of the world.  I am pleased we were able to designate this day, commemorating our national libraries.”

  “I hope that this resolution will raise public awareness of the need for unused books and encourage donations to local libraries,” Webb continued.  

The measure, supported by Virginia State Librarian Sandra G. Treadway, was inspired by the non-profit organization http://AdoptALibrary.org which was founded by Falls Church resident Lynn Gaubatz.  The organization promotes literacy through facilitating book donations to schools, libraries, Native American reservations, and prisons.  

“This legislation reminds us of the vital role that libraries play in our communities and what we all can do to enrich them,” said Gaubatz.  “I’m thankful for Senator Webb’s leadership in the creation of ‘National Adopt A Library Day’ which calls attention to and encourages library donations to those communities that need them the most.”  

If you are interested in learning more about the Adopt A Library program, please visit: http://www.AdoptALibrary.org   ///