Pelosi Statement on the Nomination of Dr. Carla D. Hayden as the Librarian of Congress

"The Librarian of Congress guards our nation's intellectual heritage.  There is no more qualified, dedicated, proven leader to protect and affirm that legacy than Dr. Carla D. Hayden.  She has dedicated her life's work to ensuring that libraries – and the whole wisdom of humanity – are accessible to anyone with a library card.

"As president of the American Library Association, Dr. Hayden's innovative, stellar leadership was instrumental to protecting readers' rights.  Under her leadership, the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore has continued to honor its historic commitment to empowering, enriching, and serving all.

"As someone who spent two days a week in the Central Library of Baltimore – part of the Enoch Pratt Library system – as a child, I take particular pride in Dr. Hayden's achievements and her nomination.  This is more than an opportunity to make history with the first woman and first African American Librarian of Congress – this is also a chance to name a highly-qualified administrator, innovative librarian, and avid reader to guide the world's largest library system.  The Senate should act swiftly to confirm her nomination."