The 25th annual National Library Legislative Day was held in Washington, D.C. on May 3rd and 4th. It was reported that 500 librarians and library advocates visited congressional offices to seek support for library legislation pending in Congress.

State Librarian Michael York, NHLA Past President John Brisbin, and LSTA Coordinator John Barrett attended information briefings sponsored by the American Library Association on May 3rd. Several important topics were examined, including funding for the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) and the E-rate, public access to electronic government information, and database protection. Carol Henderson, Executive Director of ALA's Washington Office described the turbulent political climate in the wake of the school shootings in Littleton, CO, and the increased pressure to require filters on computers in school and public libraries around the country.

The New Hampshire contingent was able to meet with Senator Gregg, Congressmen Sununu and Bass, along with their legislative aides, and a representative from Senator Smith's office. Issues discussed during the visits included funding LSTA at $166.2 million (FY99) rather than the administration's $154.5 million request, the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA VI) at $375 million (40% used by schools for library materials), universal service and discounted telecommunications rates, and respect for local decision making on the use of filters to restrict access to the Internet. All N.H. senators and representatives were presented with informational folders in order to familiarize them with key library concerns, and how the LSTA is working in New Hampshire.

The visits resulted in positive and constructive dialogue with plans to create future opportunities to strengthen the relationship between New Hampshire's library community and N.H. representatives in Congress.