WHEREAS, our nation's libraries and librarians play a vital role in connecting millions of people with the resources they need to live, learn, work and thrive in the 21st Century; and

WHEREAS, in 2003, the Emporia Public Library had 216,216 visitors, who checked out 184,531 items, as well as 8,835 youngsters attending various children's programs. The library's collection is composed of more than 90,000 books; 11,000 audio, video, and DVD materials; 225 magazine and 14 newspaper subscriptions; and

WHEREAS, the library has 13 computers with Internet access for the public with 960 users each week and the library answers over 34,000 reference questions a year; and

WHEREAS, Americans use libraries to find jobs, to learn to read, to be literate online, to find vital health facts, to research their environment and diets - and to find food for our souls. Libraries bring you the world. Libraries are unique - in person, online, modern and dynamic. Nowhere else can you have access to nearly anything on the Web or in print as well as personal service and assistance in finding it; and

WHEREAS, a library is just as important a part of a community's infrastructure as any road, bridge, public building or utility, and provides meeting room space for educational and informational community meetings and programs conducted on a nonprofit basis. In 2003, over 390 meetings or events were held in the library's meeting rooms and almost 6,000 people attended; and

WHEREAS, in times of economic instability, Americans turn to - and depend on - their libraries and librarians. Libraries are part of the American Dream - places for opportunity, education, self-help and lifelong learning.

NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved that I, Dale K. Davis, Mayor of the City of Emporia, Kansas, on behalf of the citizens of Emporia, ask that all citizens join us in celebrating, not only 25 years in the present facility located at 110 E. Sixth Avenue, but 135 years of service to our community. I encourage all citizens to take advantage of the wonderful library resources available. Visit the library and see why there's something for everyone at your Emporia Public Library.