LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the Brooklyn Public Library's 33rd
Annual Literacy Program Spring Reception, May 10, 2010

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals that are devoted to the welfare of the community
and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, It is also the sense of this Legislative Body that the quali-
ty of life of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly enriched
by its exceptional cultural, educational and recreational institutions;
these institutions give positive definition to the profile and disposi-
tion of the communities of the State of New York and profoundly
strengthen our society with their commitment; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the Brooklyn Public Library's 33rd Annual Literacy Program Spring
Reception; this auspicious occasion will be celebrated on Monday, May
10, 2010, at the Brooklyn Museum in Brooklyn, New York; and
WHEREAS, Originally envisioned as a small network of libraries
throughout the independent city of Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Public Library
(BPL) system was approved by an Act of Legislature of the State of New
York on May 1, 1892, and later passed by resolution of the Brooklyn
Common Council on November 30, 1896; and
WHEREAS, The BPL system is the fifth largest library system in the
nation, existing independently alongside the New York Public Library
(serving the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island) and the Queens Borough
Public Library; it consists of 58 branches located within a half mile of
every Brooklyn resident, plus an outstanding business library in Brook-
lyn Heights and the only public bookmobile in New York City; and
WHEREAS, The BPL system stands as a testament to the dedication of
many generations of public servants; and
WHEREAS, It is the mission of Brooklyn Public Library to ensure the
preservation and transmission of society's knowledge, history and
culture, and to provide the people of Brooklyn with free and open access
to information for education, recreation and reference; its vision is
that BPL will be a vital center of knowledge for all, accessible 24
hours a day, and will be a leader in traditional and innovative library
services which reflect the diverse and dynamic spirit of the people of
Brooklyn; and
WHEREAS, As a direct result of the BPL's commitment to serving the
lifelong learning needs of the people of Brooklyn, and under the able
leadership of its Director of Literacy Program and Volunteer Resources,
Elizabeth Lewis, BPL offers an innovative educational program for begin-
ning adult readers and writers, offering resources and instruction
through volunteer tutors and technology-assisted learning; this
outstanding program operates out of five Learning Centers located at the
Bedford, Central, Coney Island, Eastern Parkway, and Flatbush libraries;
and
WHEREAS, Learning Centers at BPL is a community of more than 700 new
adult readers and writers and volunteer literacy tutors, supported by a
dedicated staff of literacy professionals; this program fosters a crea-
tive and dynamic learning environment where adults develop foundational
skills for maneuvering through a print-oriented, technology rich socie-
ty; it is with these skills that over the years adult learners continue
to achieve their personal, family, academic and employment goals; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion presents an opportunity for this
Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to the Literacy Program of
the Brooklyn Public Library; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when an organ-
ization of such noble aims and accomplishments is brought to our atten-
tion, it should be recognized and applauded by all the citizens of this
great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the Brooklyn Public Library's 33rd Annual Literacy Program
Spring Reception; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Elizabeth Lewis, Director of Literacy Program and Volunteer
Resources, Brooklyn Public Library, 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, New
York 11238.