Summary of HRES 328

Bill Number: HRES 328

Title: Expressing support for the staff of public, school, academic, and special libraries in the United States and the essential services those libraries provide to communities.

Status: Submitted in House

Introduced: April 10, 2025

Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HRES 328 aims to express strong support for library staff across various types of libraries in the United States, highlighting the essential services they provide to their communities. The resolution emphasizes the importance of adequate funding for libraries, the protection of civil rights for library workers, and the fundamental right of all citizens to access information freely.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes several important provisions:

1. Commendation of Library Staff: It commends the work of library staff nationwide for their contributions to society.

2. Support for National Library Week: It aligns with the goals and ideals of National Library Week, celebrating the role of libraries.

3. Recognition of Libraries' Role: It acknowledges libraries as critical infrastructure essential for the future of the United States.

4. Funding Prioritization: It calls for full funding of library services at federal, state, and local levels to ensure the continuation and enhancement of library services.

5. Reaffirmation of Rights:

   • Access to Information: It reaffirms the public's right to access information, facilitated by library staff.
   • Organizational Rights: It supports library workers' rights to organize, collectively bargain, and have a protected voice in their workplaces.
   • Civil Rights: It defends the civil rights of library workers to perform their duties without threats or intimidation.

6. Rights of Library Staff: It recognizes the rights of library staff to:

   • Speak out on public concerns.
   • Address elected officials and library administration.
   • Inform the public about their rights to free access to information and any threats to that access.

Impact

The resolution is expected to positively impact library staff, library services, and the communities they serve by:

• Encouraging increased funding for libraries, which can enhance resources and services.
• Strengthening the rights and protections of library workers, fostering a more supportive work environment.
• Promoting public awareness of the importance of libraries in providing access to information and supporting civil rights.

Legislative Actions

• April 10, 2025: The resolution was referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce and submitted in the House.

Sponsors

The resolution is sponsored by a diverse group of representatives, including:

• Primary Sponsor: Pramila Jayapal
• Cosponsors: Lloyd Doggett, Paul Tonko, Greg Casar, Mary Gay Scanlon, Mark Pocan, Dina Titus, Andrea Salinas, Hillary J. Scholten, Nanette Diaz Barragán, Betty McCollum, Angie Craig, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Jill N. Tokuda, Suzanne Bonamici, Judy Chu, Linda T. Sánchez, Donald Norcross, Jared Huffman, Janice D. Schakowsky, Dwight Evans, Brendan F. Boyle, James P. McGovern, Jerrold Nadler, Summer L. Lee, Jonathan L. Jackson, Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Related Bills

• SRES 169: This is the companion resolution in the Senate, reflecting similar goals and support for library staff and services.

This resolution serves as a significant acknowledgment of the vital role libraries and their staff play in fostering informed communities and protecting civil rights.