The White House

March 25th, 2008

Dear Friends,

The 50th anniversary of National Library Week is a marvelous occasion
for all Americans! I am delighted to send greeting to readers, aspiring
readers, librarians and library patrons throughout the United States.

Libraries make an important difference to our nation. America's
business, education and creative pursuits run on the fuel of information
and imagination that libraries provide. Libraries strengthen our nation
by enlightening readers to the interesting and exciting world around
them and promoting a love of lifelong learning. At the heart and soul of
every library is the librarian.

My thanks and admiration go to these dedicated individuals for all they
do to enrich their communities and the nation.

I am proud of President Bush's commitment to America's libraries. He has
increased funding for the Institute of Museum and Library Services to
recruit and educate the next generation of librarians.

You can help our nation's libraries, too! Ask your local librarian about
ways you can volunteer and contribute. And, in the words of this year's
theme, invite your friends to come with you to "Join The Circle Of
Knowledge @ Your Library ."

Sincerely,

National Endowment for the Arts · an independent federal agency
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20506