| On March 1, 2007, a Library Legislative Breakfast was held at the East Longmeadow Public Library and the public was cordially invited. This event provided a public forum for a lively exchange of new information concerning state funding for libraries in the upcoming budget, updates on new technologies, as well as the opportunity to express thanks to our legislators for their continued support for libraries across the state and for East Longmeadow specifically. I would like to thank our Library Director Susan M. Peterson, other East Longmeadow Library Trustees, the library staff and the Friends of the East Longmeadow Public Library for ensuring that this program was both enjoyable and informative. Thanks also to the Pioneer Valley Legislative Planning Committee and the Western Mass. Regional Library System for their support and guidance in the initial planning stages of this event. On behalf of the Library Trustees I would also like to thank invited legislative guests, Senator Gale D. Candaras and Representatives Mary S. Rogeness and Angelo Puppolo, Jr. for taking the time from their demanding schedules to update us on current legislative issues and to listen to our concerns about library funding. Thank you also to our other distinguished guests, Gregor Trinkaus-Randall, Preservation Specialist from the Mass. Board of Library Commissioners, N. Janeen Resnick, Assistant Regional Administrator of the Western Mass. Regional Library system, Lynn Coakley from the Friends of Western Mass. Regional Library System and Carl Sturgis, Director of the Storrs Library, Longmeadow, for offering their unique perspectives on the need to adequately fund libraries in Massachusetts. Those in attendance were reminded that no library in Massachusetts can meet the demands of its users with local resources alone. Residents of Massachusetts are using their libraries more than ever, and they have come to rely on the resources provided at the state and regional levels to meet their ever-increasing need for access to library collections, services and electronic content regardless of where they live. Strong libraries are essential for education and life-long learning, and with ongoing support at all levels, will continue to play an important role in the development of strong communities and a strong Democracy. Maxine F. Connor, Chair East Longmeadow Board of Library Trustees |
