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NEWS BRIEF: EPA regional library has opened

Release Date: 10/01/2008
Contact Information: Anne Rowan, 312-353-9391, [email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 08 -OPA151

CHICAGO (October 1, 2008) - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 has re-opened its library in the Metcalfe Federal Building. at 77 W. Jackson Blvd. in Chicago. Providing public access to environmental information is key to EPA's mission. EPA shares information through a variety of mechanisms including the internet, hotlines and libraries.

The re-opening of regional libraries in Chicago, Dallas and Kansas City and the library at Headquarters will help the Agency better share information. Also, all EPA libraries received additional funding for equipment, staffing, or materials to further enhance the public's access to environmental information.

In developing plans to strengthen EPA's library network, the Agency talked with internal library professionals, EPA employee unions, library professional associations, and a Library of Congress advisory committee focusing on federal libraries.

Region 5's library is staffed by a professional librarian and provides access to reference materials on general and specialized subjects. It is equipped with computers, Wi-Fi and outlets for laptops. Reasonable accommodation has been made for wheelchair patrons. The library serves staff and the public in person, by phone and via email. Services include interlibrary loan and document delivery.

Library services are supported and supplemented through Region 5's agreement with the AWBERC Library in Cincinnati, Oh. More information about EPA's National Library Network Services can be found at https://www.epa.gov/libraries.

Region 5's library, located on the 16th floor of the Metcalfe Building, is open from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Monday -Thursday. For assistance during library hours, call 312-886-6822. For more information about Region 5's library, please go to https://www.epa.gov/libraries/region5.html. Directions with transportation options to EPA's regional office and library can be found at http.//www.epa.gov.region5/visitors/index.htm