SENATE RESOLUTION

                         1991-8665

By Senators Cantu and Bluechel

     WHEREAS, Books are still the best vehicle for knowledge; and

     WHEREAS, Books will remain a key instrument for the preservation of historical, cultural, and social knowledge; and

     WHEREAS, The economic and social prosperity of our state and nation depends on a literate and informed citizenry; and

     WHEREAS, Public libraries ensure free and equal access to books and other sources of information to all citizens; and

     WHEREAS, Both children and adults should be encouraged to read and to use the services provided by the libraries in their communities; and

     WHEREAS, April 14-20 is National Library Week;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate, in celebration of National Library Week, hereby express its support of the many libraries serving Washington's citizens, and commend the efforts of these libraries to build partnerships in their communities which promote literacy, encourage reading, and impart knowledge; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the Senate today echoes the words of Mark Twain, "The man who does not read good books has no advantage over the man who can't read them."