FROM THE DESK OF THE STATE LIBRARIAN
The N.H. State Library sponsored its annual trip to Washington on September 15. Forty-two librarians made this year's trip; it was judged by a number of veterans on the trek as one of the best yet. We arrived at Union Station at about 9:00 a.m. and proceeded directly to the National Archives on Pennsylvania Avenue. We spent about an hour looking at the documents of the United States that define us as a nation. There were a number of very unusual things also on exhibit, such as registration records from Ellis Island. From the Archives we headed to the Capitol to meet Congressmen Bass and Bradley, we had some pictures taken and took a tour of the building given by members of Congressman Bass's staff.
We were able this year to have lunch in the Library of Congress where we had some time to talk to Congressman Bass and take a tour of the library with docents who were very knowledgeable. I have taken this tour of the library a number of times and felt that the docent this year was the most knowledged guide I have ever encountered. This year we were very fortunate to have a meeting with Dr. James Billington, Librarian of Congress. Congressman Bass's staff always tries to arrange a meeting with Dr. Billington. As you can imagine with his busy schedule it is often difficult to catch him in the library. We enjoyed his remarks about what the library is planning.
The trip was a great success. Look for our announcement about next year's trip in the Spring.
-Michael York, State Librarian
COMMENTS FROM SOME OF THE PARTICIPANTS
"I would like to thank you for all your careful preparation work that led to an exciting visit to Washington, D.C. for New Hampshire librarians. A very special highlight for me was Dr. Billington's presentation with insightful comments on the future of libraries. Viewing the documents of America's formation, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights at the National Archives, I experienced a deep appreciation of our freedoms. Learning of the 9 billion pages of documents needing organization at the National Archives helped put our own library and home life organizational goals in perspective. Thank you for an informative and memorable day at our nation's Capitol."
-submitted by Ruslyn Vear, Reference Services, Amherst Town Library, Amherst
"Thanks so much for a great day in Washington. I really enjoyed the Library of Congress. I appreciate all your efforts to put the day together for all of us."
-submitted by Linda Keith, Gilford Elementary School, Gilford
"Librarians' Day in Washington was fabulous! The Library of Congress visit was wonderful and Dr. Billington's vision for libraries as centers of culture is one that I know is shared by many of us. Librarians' Day gave a great starting point for future visits. Thank you so much for organizing our day."
-submitted by Deborah Thurston, Woodsville High School, Woodsville
"What a terrific day! I met many new colleagues, walked off all calories consumed for the day, and got to tour the Library of Congress with Madonna (really - our guide's name was Madonna)!!! Did anyone else spot the crocodile in the library? As a first-timer, I highly recommend this unique opportunity. I'll be going again, if Darlene can stand to plan it again! A huge thanks to her and her helpers, our State Librarian, our Congressional Delegation and all the wonderful folk in D.C. who helped to make the trip so special."
-submitted by Debora Longo, Director Somersworth Public Library, Somersworth
"The National Archives was incredible, could have spent hours and hours there. The Library of Congress tour was, once again, fabulous and we had a great tour guide. The trip is always good. It must be a nightmare to organize for so many people with so many things to schedule. I have joined you on this trip 3 times and have enjoyed every one, although on the Friday mornings after I'm not exactly at my best. Speaking of not my best...I did fall victim to the heat and lack of time to get something to eat and drink prior to lunch! In the past, I remembered that we had some time either at Union Station, or last year, at the Supreme Court to have some water and sustenance. I'd suggest planning a bit of time for that. My contingent was feeling a little weak as we had left at 4:00 a.m., and the horrible heat added to the distress. Aside from that it was another very inspiring day! Thank you for all you do for us to make this trip happen."
-submitted by Eileen Culkin, Inter-Lakes Jr / Sr High School, Meredith
"Thank you for a great day! My husband was so glad that he came with me. It was my first time to Washington, D.C. and it was a great experience. We're talking about going again some time on our own. I enjoyed the whole trip but the best part for me was the tour of the Library of Congress. Our guide was very informative and made the experience more meaningful. Thanks again."
-submitted by Rachel Mosher, Gilford High School, Gilford
"I just love N.H. Librarians' Day. I always learn something new, and have something to think about. This year, I was most impressed with the National Archives, particularly the Declaration of Independence. What a difference between the original, old faded copy and the modern transcription! Then I looked more carefully at the original copy and saw it had been folded several times. I wonder where it came from. The writing could hardly be seen at all, with the exception of John Hancock's signature. Just an old piece of paper, really, but if it could talk! It's the piece of paper that started it all. And though the words are faded on the paper we still cherish them today. Sort of gives you a lump in the throat...I agree, wish we could've spent more time there."
-submitted by Marilyn Simons, Jaffrey Public Library, Jaffrey |
