Letter to the Honorable Joe Wilson

The Honorable Joe Wilson House of Representatives 2229 Rayburn House Office Building Washington, DC 20515-4002

Re: Amendment #35 to the FY2011 Continuing Resolution

Dear Representative Wilson:

This week, the House of Representatives will consider amendment #35 to the FY2011 Continuing Resolution. This amendment submitted by U.S. Rep. Scott Garret (R-NJ), seeks to zero out the Institute of Museum and Library Services, eliminating all federal funding specifically for libraries. Please vote NO on this amendment.  Here in South Carolina, public libraries provide invaluable services to the communities that they serve. The American Library Association states that in South Carolina, the return on investment for every $1 invested in libraries, they return $4.48 to the community in services. Here in Richland County, in addition to the free Internet services provided to the public, the books, audio and video services provided at no cost to county residents, the library provides assistance in creating resumes, job training and even practice interviews at no cost. Professional resume services can cost over $200, something many residents would not be able to afford. Please ensure that these and other invaluable services provided to our community by our libraries continue to be available. Vote NO to Amendment #35 to the FY2011 Continuing Resolution.