PCBL NAMES DINNIMAN ‘ELECTED STATE OFFICIAL OF THE YEAR’
State Senator Honored for Work on Behalf of Public Libraries

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2008

CONTACT: ADAM CIRUCCI
PHONE: 610-692-2112
acirucci@pasenate.com

WEST CHESTER - State Senator Andy Dinniman was recently named Elected State Official of the Year by the statewide organization, Pennsylvania Citizens for Better Libraries (PCBL).

"It is an honor to be recognized as an advocate for public libraries and the values they represent. I have always felt that our libraries are not mere public institutions but important pillars of democracy - offering free access to information to every citizen," Dinniman said.

During 15 years as a Chester County Commissioner, Dinniman developed a strong reputation as a friend of public libraries and an advocate for literary freedom and expression against censorship. In 1992, he worked to launch chesco.net, a computer network that connects Chester County’s 18-library system, making it easier for residents to locate important resources. Later, he helped develop a comprehensive public survey that was used to leverage increased funding for the system, while keeping the libraries ahead of the region’s growing and changing needs.

In the state Senate, Dinniman has consistently fought for increased support for libraries and against cuts in funding. Most recently, through his leadership in the Legislature, he secured a $5,000 grant that will be used to establish a local authors section in the Chester County Library. The grant will also go toward developing a literary festival to highlight local authors and their works.

“This award serves as a reminder of how far we have come and the work that still needs to be done. I will strive to earn again and again the recognition that Pennsylvania Citizens for Better Libraries has bestowed upon me,” Dinniman said.

For more information, call Senator Dinniman’s office at 610-692-2112 or e-mail andy@pasenate.com.

PHOTO: PCBLAward.jpg
CAPTION: Senator Dinniman accepts his 2007 Elected State Official of the Year Award from PCBL Vice President Dennis Leeper. From left to right are Leeper, Dinniman and JoAnn Weinberger of the Chester County Library System’s Board of Trustees.

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