A concurrent RESOLUTION

 

To recognize and celebrate the historical and ongoing contributions of South Carolina Public Libraries and to encourage continued support and investment for the benefit of all the palmetto state's citizens.

 

Whereas, just over three hundred and twenty-five years ago, in 1700, the colonial legislature of South Carolina became the first governing body in what is now known as the United States to enact legislation establishing the intent for a public library; and

 

Whereas, in 1943, during the midst of World War II, the South Carolina General Assembly pioneered with the Virginia General Assembly to institute state aid to public libraries for the first time in the United States; and

 

Whereas, the South Carolina General Assembly recognizes the indispensable role public libraries play today as centers of reading and learning for all ages and backgrounds, as places for indispensable public-access technology, and as meeting venues for entire communities; and

 

Whereas, South Carolina's public libraries, according to the latest annual count provided by our State Library, had over 10.8 million library visits, an overall circulation of 26,238,615 print and nonprint items, and 58,891 total programs attended by 1,481,804 persons with the majority of such activities - 30,395 programs - benefiting children (0-18 years); and

 

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina General Assembly encourage continued and increased investment in South Carolina's public library systems to ensure that they remain vibrant, modern, and accessible for both current and future generations and congratulate South Carolina public librarians for the outstanding job they do in serving South Carolina's citizens. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

 

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, recognize and celebrate the historical and ongoing contributions of South Carolina public libraries and encourage continued support and investment for the benefit of all the Palmetto State's citizens.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the South Carolina State Library, each county and regional public library system, and appropriate local government bodies to share with their communities.

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