WARREN – U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (RI-01) delivered the first shipment of books to George Hail Free Library in Warren today as part of his newly announced participation in the Library of Congress Surplus Books Program. The program allows Members of Congress to donate extra copies of books from the Library of Congress to local schools, libraries, and non-profit organizations.

“There is nothing more important than providing the next generation of Rhode Islanders with every resource they need to succeed,” Cicilline said. “This delivery marks the first in a series of stops at libraries throughout the First District to deliver books directly from the Library of Congress. I welcome any libraries or schools who are interested in participating to reach out to my office directly.”

Cicilline announced his office’s participation in the Library of Congress Surplus Books Program in May and plans to make additional deliveries to other libraries and schools in the coming weeks.

“This delivery of books will provide Warren residents with even more literary resources to enrich their minds and better their lives,” said Patricia Redfearn, the Director of George Hail Free Library. “I want to thank Congressman Cicilline for realizing the value of his participation in this important program, and I look forward to these books finding a good home right here at George Hail Library.”

In order to participate in the Surplus Book Program, organizations must be located in the First Congressional District and fall into one of the following categories:

• Full-time, tax-supported or nonprofit educational institutions: schools, school systems, colleges, universities, museums, and public libraries;
• Agencies of local, state, or federal government;
• Nonprofit institutions or organizations that have tax-exempt status under the provisions of section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 (see 41 CFR 101-44.207 (a)(17)) and that operates a library and/or research center open to the public.

Organizations who are considering participating through Cicilline’s office or would like to request books should visit https://cicilline.house.gov/surplus-books-program or contact the Pawtucket office at 729-5600.