First Lady Presents Library Awards

First Lady Laura Bush recently presented libraries in Idaho, Connecticut, and Georgia with the National Awards for Library Service, the nation's highest honor to libraries that make exceptional social, economic, or environmental contributions.

"Libraries do more than provide us with information, they engage us in learning—learning for a lifetime," said Bush, who cited all three winners for providing children with greater access to books and learning.

Boundary County District Library in Bonners Ferry, ID, was awarded for its family-literacy program, creative community partnerships, and for providing a network of social and educational resources for its rural residents. Some 8,300 of the town's more than 9,000 residents have library cards, and last year, the library logged more than 73,000 visits.

The Hartford (CT) Public Library was cited for providing children with "even greater access to books and learning by building libraries right where children are—in schools," said Bush, a former school librarian. The library's Creating Readers program provides family literacy education in 11 schools, and its Family Place project promotes the importance of reading aloud and provides parents with reading instruction.

Bush also singled out the Southwest Georgia Regional Public Library System in Bainbridge for fulfilling its motto, "Let Your Mind Soar," through its state-of-the-art bookmobile, summer and teen reading programs, and online homework help. The library also has a World War II Veterans History project that shares the stories of local heroes with the community.

"This award celebrates learning and communities," said Robert Martin, director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the federal agency that distributes the award.