Southampton - New York State Senator Kenneth P. LaValle (R,C, I –Port Jefferson ) has been named a member of a newly created Senate Select Committee on Libraries. The 19-member bipartisan body was established on January 10 by Senate resolution.

"As a lifelong advocate for libraries and education, I will continue to assist local libraries in meeting the needs of the public," Senator LaValle said. LaValle is also Chairman of the State Senate's Higher Education Committee.

The Select Committee is authorized to conduct meetings, conferences and public hearings, to gather information and to make recommendations on library-related legislative proposals.

There are 750 public libraries in New York State, with a total of about 7,000 libraries when academic, school and special libraries are included.

"Our libraries are community gathering places that provide services and opportunities for young and old alike," Senator LaValle said. "Libraries are invaluable community resources that deserve to have their mission supported in every way possible."