In 1998, more than 450 library supporters from 43 states visited congressional offices on Library Legislative Day. This year the Illinois delegation, which is usually the largest, is looking to be 85 supporters strong, says Sarah Long, director of the North Suburban Library System, and president-elect of the American Library Association. The citizens of Illinois are unique in their high level of commitment to libraries, and they also understand the need to continually take this message to the legislators. Northbrook Public Library Director Chad Raymond believes strongly in the effectiveness of Library Legislative Day, and has traveled to Washington almost every year since 1981 to address the issues. We have definitely seen major legislative pieces evolve through our visits to Capitol Hill, says Raymond.
Legislative development is our most formidable friend or foe.
It provides new opportunities at every turn, as well as challenges to our vision and direction. And we must keep our focus there, because libraries would not exist without legislation. The North Suburban Library System, based in Wheeling, is an organization of over 600 academic, public, school and special libraries in the north suburban area of Cook County and communities in Kane, Lake and McHenry counties. It is one of 12 library systems in Illinois, funded through the Illinois State Library, a division of the Office of the Secretary of State, Jesse White.