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There's More Than One Way to Destroy Books Column published: 03 September 2009 By: Shirley Gage Hodges Biography & Archived Articles 
To catch up on the news about this topic see: Your support is needed to help save the historical collection of the Library of Michigan. If Michigan is able to shut down its state library without public reaction, other state and provincial libraries will be next. I would like to take you back with me to March 8, 1989, the day when the Michigan Library and Historical building was dedicated and share with you just a few of the quotes and feelings of that day. It was a day to remember in the history of our state of Michigan! At the time of its dedication, it was second largest State Library in the United States
Mayor Terry McKane commented that "It is a fitting home for Michigan's collective memory - a home that's good for the city as well as the state." He must have realized how many tourist dollars this would bring into the greater Lansing area. I don't believe that the current Governor has taken into consideration what closing the library will do to the economy of the Greater Lansing area. Our library draws thousands of people each year who come to do research. Many have traveled great distances to come and use these facilities and to bring tourist dollars into our area. They stay in our hotels, use the restaurants and greatly help the local economy. Many of them have become supporters and donors.
I personally believe that each of these statements are as true today as they were when they were made. 
I don't know if you have read the book Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. In short it is a book about a future in which literature is banned and firemen burn books. There is more than one way to destroy a book. In our case, if these collections are put in places where they are not accessible they will no longer be available for use. We need to make sure that we are protecing our collections from all types of destruction and that they will remain available. The Library and Historical Center was made in honor of all of us. Help us to save for our children and our children's children not only our own heritage but also the heritage of the Great State of Michigan. Thank you to all who have written letters to their Senator and Representative. We still need to get this through the State House, so please continue to contact your State Representative and the Governor. In fact, I would encourage you to contact all of them. I understand that they are becoming amazed by all of the e-mails they are getting. Earlier comments referred to a 2/3 majority being necessary were in error. A majority is sufficient to disapprove the Executive Order. Some have remarked that they are not just receiving form letters but people are really sharing their comments and ideas. I am sure that they have been surprised by the out-of-state and out-of-country messages that they have received letting them know how much revenue will be missing. Keep up the good work!!!! Mark your calendar:
Shirley Hodges hodgessj@hotmail.com President, Genealogical Speakers Guild To read back issues of Shirley Hodges' articles, visit her biography & archived Articles Check out the resources at GlobalGenealogy.com:
Shopping Cart & Order Desk Global Genealogy & History Shoppe 1-800-361-5168 ( 9-5 Monday to Friday )
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