March 8, 2021

BUILD AMERICA’S LIBRARIES ACT – CALL TO ACTION

Dear Colleagues,

Below is ALA’s Call to Action regarding the Build America’s Libraries Act.

This bill has potential to transform library infrastructure across the country and we wholeheartedly support it.

We encourage you to help move the bill forward by contacting your lawmakers.

Click here to find your Congressional Representative

Click here to contact your United States Senator

ALA’s web page on Build America’s Libraries

Thanks.

Juliet Machie, MLS, Ed.D.
Executive Director
New Jersey Library Association
163 US Hwy 130 N., Bldg. 1, Suite 1C 

Bordentown, NJ 08505
609-482-1282
[email protected]   


I'm excited to report on a major milestone in our Build America's Libraries campaign.

Today, the historic $5 billion Build America's Libraries Act was introduced in the House by more than 50 bipartisan sponsors, led by Representatives Andy Levin (D-MI) and Don Young (R-AK).

This is a companion bill to S. 127 in the Senate. With a strong bill introduction in both houses, we are now one step closer to passing this transformational library funding bill.

In addition, the Build America's Libraries Act has been gaining endorsements from major national organizations, such as the National Association of Counties and North America's Building Trades Unions.

Thank you for your efforts to reach out to your Members of Congress. Please use ALA's new action alert to send a message to your Representative asking them to cosponsor the bill, or thanking them if they are already a cosponsor.

Next, please help us spread the word by posting on your social media. Draft messages are below:

  • The Build America's Libraries Act would be transformational, providing $5bil to construct and upgrade library facilities. Urge Congress to invest in our libraries and help build a library legacy that stands the test of time. #BuildLibraries twitter.com/LibraryPolicy/status/1367226971541954561
  • Investments in library infrastructure are needed across the country - passing the Build America's Libraries Act would provide that critical funding. Urge Congress to join us and #BuildLibraries, for the library patrons of today and tomorrow. twitter.com/LibraryPolicy/status/1367226971541954561

Your support as an ALA leader helps to build a strong culture of advocacy among ALA members, which makes our progress on legislative priorities possible.

The Build America's Libraries campaign will remain a major priority in the coming weeks – thanks for your continued support and engagement!


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Gavin Baker, MSLIS
Deputy Director, Public Policy & Government Relations 
American Library Association
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