Alabama Library Day

WHEREAS, libraries empower an individual, whether it be through developing skills to succeed in school, looking for a job, exploring possible careers or planning a retirement, people of all ages turn to libraries for instruction, support and access to computers and other resources helping them lead better lives; and

WHEREAS, many children and adults learn to read at their school and public libraries via story times, research projects, summer reading, tutoring and other opportunities. Others come to libraries to learn the technology and information skills that help them answer their questions, discover new interests and share their ideas with others; and

WHEREAS, libraries serve people of every age, education level, income level and ethnicity, and for many people, libraries provide resources that they could not otherwise afford; and

WHEREAS, libraries strengthen families and help them find a comfortable, welcoming space and a wealth of resources to help them learn, grow and play together; and

WHEREAS, libraries bring people together, both in person and online, to have conversations and to learn from and help each other while also providing support for seniors, immigrants and others with special needs; and

WHEREAS, whether doing a school assignment, seeking a cure for cancer, pursuing an academic degree or developing a more fuel efficient engine, scholars and researchers of all ages depend on the knowledge and expertise that libraries and librarians offer; and

WHEREAS, libraries collect, digitize and preserve original and unique historical documents that help us to better understand our past, present and future:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim April 28, 2015, as

Alabama Library Day

in the state of Alabama.