Sunbury, PA , PA - Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Executive Deputy Secretary Angela Fitterer and Deputy Secretary Susan Banks today visited the Degenstein Community Library to meet with members of the Degen History Buffers Club and present the library with a proclamation for National Library Week.
“Libraries are vital hubs for Pennsylvanians, providing the space and resources for residents to learn, become informed about civic and municipal issues, access telehealth and internet, and build community,” said Executive Deputy Secretary Angela Fitterer. “National Library Week celebrates the critical role libraries play in their communities, and we encourage Pennsylvanians to tell their story about why they love libraries, too.”
Since 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association (ALA) and libraries across the country each April. It is a time to celebrate the contributions of the nation's libraries and librarians and to promote library use and support. This year’s theme is "There's More to the Story”, and Tuesday is National Library Worker’s Day.
“More than ever, libraries are one of the only places in the community that are free and open to all. It’s particularly important when helping people of all ages pursue the connected learning they crave,” said Deputy Secretary and State Librarian Susan Banks. “It’s exciting to celebrate libraries this week as the place where everyone is welcome and everyone is free to immerse themselves in whatever their imagination and interests lead them to explore.”
Governor Josh Shapiro’s inaugural budget proposal builds on his commitment to creating prosperous pathways for learners across the Commonwealth. This budget includes $4.2 million for a new Public Library Facilities Improvement Fund for small, rural public libraries that need minor facility repairs and improvements. The grant program will build the capacity of libraries to meet the needs of all community members by prioritizing accessibility, efficiency, necessary repairs, and upgrades of semi-private meeting rooms and digital skills and technology use spaces.
“We are honored to receive Governor Shapiro’s proclamation that recognizes the great things that libraries do throughout Pennsylvania. With state and local support and investment in libraries we are able to continue to serve the residents of Pennsylvania and meet community needs,” said Melissa Rowse, Degenstein Community Library Director. “Specifically, the History Buffers program provides social and civic engagement for adults. This program is just one example of the ‘More to the Story’ that libraries offer.”
Established in 1937, the Degenstein Community Library (formerly Sunbury Public Library) houses more than 20,000 children’s books, videos, DVDs, and CDs and provides educational resources for students; offers resources and staff assistance to meet an array of professional, personal, and educational needs; hosts a summer reading program; has public computers including wireless access, and more.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Casey Smith, casesmith@pa.gov
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