Reps. Rick Jones, Bauer, Denby, Durhal, Genetski, Horn, LeBlanc, Lori, Moss, Opsommer, Pearce, Proos, Barnett, Bolger, Neumann, Ball and Knollenberg offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 140.

            A resolution to urge the Governor to devise a plan to assure that the Library of Michigan collection remains intact and accessible in Lansing.

            Whereas, Executive Order 2009-36, which, among other things, would abolish the Department of History, Arts and Libraries, includes language that could result in the dissolution of the uniquely valuable collection of the Library of Michigan. This has generated strong objections from user groups of the library and those concerned with the preservation of this priceless resource of knowledge and history; and

            Whereas, While no one can dispute the seriousness of the state's financial situation or the need for strong actions, it is important that the steps we take to address this crisis do not result in a permanent and costly long-term loss to the state. Under the provisions of the executive order, overall responsibility for the Library of Michigan would be transferred to the Department of Education. The Superintendent of Public Instruction, among other duties, is charged with pursuing the elimination or transfer to other suitable institutions (Michigan State University has been suggested) of the Federal Documents Depository and the non-Michigan genealogy collection; and

            Whereas, To break up the Library of Michigan's collection would be a major loss, not only for the people and institutions of this state, but also for the researchers who come to Lansing from all over the country to search for information in what is acknowledged to be one of the finest collections anywhere; and

            Whereas, With primary source documents going back to Michigan's territorial days and genealogical materials that are among the most comprehensive in the nation, it is clear that maintaining the full collection must be achieved. All options to do so, even if they include a temporary closing or implementing some user fees, are preferable to breaking up this treasured resource; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge the Governor to devise a plan to assure that the Library of Michigan collection remains intact and accessible in Lansing; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Office of the Governor.