CELEBRATING THE GRAND OPENING OF THE ORRVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

On 2026-06-08, Representative Terri A. Sewell (D-AL-7) delivered a floor speech titled "CELEBRATING THE GRAND OPENING OF THE ORRVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY" in the House.

CELEBRATING THE GRAND OPENING OF THE ORRVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 96 (Monday, June 8, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 96 (Monday, June 8, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E538-E539] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE GRAND OPENING OF THE ORRVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY _____ HON. TERRI A. SEWELL of alabama in the house of representatives Monday, June 8, 2026 Ms. SEWELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join with the City of Orrville and Dallas County community in celebrating the grand opening of the Orrville Public Library, which took place on Saturday, June 6, 2026 in Orrville, Alabama. Public libraries are among our Nation's most invaluable institutions. They not only serve as gathering places where children can develop a love of reading, students can pursue academic achievement, and job seekers can gain critical skills, they also provide access to information and education that is essential for building strong communities and providing pathways to success. The grand opening of the Orrville Public Library represents a significant investment in the future of Orrville and Dallas County, creating a space where residents can access educational resources, technology, and community services. This achievement stands as a testament to the determination and collaborative spirit of local leaders, advocates, educators, and community members whose vision and dedication helped bring this long- awaited project from concept to reality. On a personal note, the grand opening of the Orrville Public Library holds special significance to me. As a child, books were my window to the wider world. Through them, I traveled to distant places, encountered novel ideas, and considered new possibilities that helped shape who I am today. I know that I got my love of reading from my mother, Nancy Gardner Sewell, who served as a librarian for the Selma City School System for 36 years. She understood the transformative power of reading, and she taught me that libraries are more than just buildings, they are centers of learning and opportunity. For that reason, I was honored to secure $500,000 in the Fiscal Year 2023 federal budget for the construction of this new municipal public library. I was also proud to donate a collection of curated books [[Page E539]] obtained through the Library of Congress Surplus Books program to ensure a robust set of reading materials as the library welcomes its first patrons. It is deeply gratifying to be present to see that vision realized in the library's grand opening. May the Orrville Public Library stand as a lasting symbol of what can be achieved when a community comes together around a shared vision. I commend everyone who contributed to making this project a reality and look forward to seeing the positive impact this institution will have on Orrville and Dallas County for future generations. Whether residents come to read their first story, complete a school project, explore a new career path, or simply find a welcoming place to learn and grow, this library will serve as a foundation for enrichment, opportunity and lifelong learning for years to come. On behalf of Alabama's 7th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the grand opening of the Orrville Public Library. ____________________