Bill Text: VA HJR527 | 2011 | Regular Session | Enrolled

Virginia House Joint Resolution 527 (Prior Session Legislation)

Bill Title: Commending Caralene Mathis Lewis.

Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Democrat 1-0)

Status: (Passed) 2011-01-21 - House: Bill text as passed House and Senate (HJ527ER) [HJR527 Detail]

Download: Virginia-2011-HJR527-Enrolled.html

HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 527 Commending Caralene Mathis Lewis.

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, January 14, 2011 Agreed to by the Senate, January 20, 2011

WHEREAS, Caralene Mathis Lewis, the esteemed librarian of the historic Gainsboro Branch Library in Roanoke, retired in 2010 after 36 years of meritorious service; and

WHEREAS, a native of North Carolina, Caralene "Carla" Lewis received a bachelor's degree from Virginia Union University and pursued additional studies at Federal City College, now the University of the District of Columbia; Virginia Western Community College; and Hollins University; and

WHEREAS, respected for her leadership and vision, Carla Lewis began her career at the Gainsboro Branch Library in January 1974 and worked to develop programs that would include all members of the community; and

WHEREAS, Carla Lewis began story hours for preschool children at various locations across the city and started a monthly Thursday night gathering, known as "Caf� Night," where patrons gather to enjoy music, discussion, poetry slams, storytelling, and other activities; and

WHEREAS, recognizing the historical value of the Gainsboro Branch Library, Carla Lewis worked for inclusion of the library on the Virginia Landmarks Register and National Register of Historic Places and participated in the Roanoke Public Library's Oral History Project; and

WHEREAS, a skilled administrator and leader, Carla Lewis oversaw a major renovation of the library and was instrumental in the dedication of the Virginia Y. Lee Collection, which contains rare and first edition books, autographed pictures, and a taped interview of Mrs. Lee, the founder of the Gainsboro Branch Library; and

WHEREAS, Carla Lewis has generously given of her time and talents in the community as a board member of Blue Ridge Public Television, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and Apple Ridge Farm; she also serves on the steering committee for the Henry Street Heritage Festival; and

WHEREAS, Carla Lewis is a member of the Beta Chi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha and the NAACP; and

WHEREAS, admired for her generous heart and willingness to serve, Carla Lewis is an active member of Sweet Union Baptist Church, where she directs holiday dramas, teaches Sunday School, and enjoys working with young people; and

WHEREAS, after more than three decades of service to the Gainsboro Branch Library and its patrons, Carla Lewis looks forward to spending time with family and friends and continuing to serve the community in various capacities; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly commend the outstanding librarian of the Gainsboro Branch Library in Roanoke, Caralene Mathis Lewis, on the occasion of her retirement; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Caralene Mathis Lewis as an expression of the General Assembly's admiration and respect for her service to the patrons of the Gainsboro Branch Library and the Roanoke community and best wishes in her future endeavors.