Federal:
The big news in federal library advocacy is that the nation is on the lookout for a new Librarian of Congress. President Obama is expected to announce his selection soon. Also, the Senate passed legislation that (if confirmed by the House and President) would establish a 10 year term for the position of Librarian of Congress. This means that every 10 years after the initial appointment, the Librarian of Congress’ appointment would need to be renewed by the President upon Senate reconfirmation.
State:
State universities & colleges, who have felt the pressures of the Illinois budget situation for the past 4 months, are reaching out to lawmakers more aggressively. On October 1, the presidents of the nine Illinois public universities signed a letter to the governor and state government leaders. The letter requested that the state pass a budget that supports higher education, and highlighted the jobs, economic growth, and public good that the nine institutions bring to our state. The nine institutions are also organizing a “Light up the Lines” event on Monday, October 19 (the day before both the State Senate and House reconvene). The event is a call for alumni to contact their legislators and urge them to make higher education a top priority. The institutions have provided sample call talking points and a sample letter to the editor for those who wish to participate. Please consider doing so, even if you are not an Illinois institution alumnus!