HON. THADDEUS G. McCOTTER

OF MICHIGAN

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2003

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to the Wayne Public Library, which this year celebrates its 80th anniversary of service to the people of Wayne, Michigan.

Founded in June, 1923, and tucked within the Morrison and John Shoe Store on Michigan Avenue, the library was run by Ms. Emma John, the shoe store owner's daughter, who lent out the initial stock of 500 volumes to some 886 registered patrons in-between waiting on shoe customers.

My, how times--and shoe styles--have changed.

Today, the Wayne Public Library operates in a state-of-the-art facility of 24,000 square feet, which houses both Adults' and Children's reading rooms; meeting rooms; reference services; and numerous special events and classes for the entire community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating and thanking the Wayne Public Library for their 80 years of outstanding service to the people of Wayne, Michigan.