at the end of this year, Congress will say farewell to Dr. James Billington, a dear friend who, for the last 28 years, has dedicated his life to ensuring that the Nation's most prominent library is an unparalleled resource for all who visit, either in person or online. Since his nomination by President Reagan in 1987 and subsequent confirmation by the United States Senate, Dr. Billington has led the Library of Congress into the digital era, and expanded its relationships internationally and with the private sector. For almost three decades, Dr. Billington championed the National Digital Library program, which made millions of rare and one-of-a-kind historical and cultural documents readily available to the public. The National Digital Library was a colossal undertaking and one that students and scholars alike will utilize for many years to come. In 1990, Dr. Billington created the James Madison Council, an advisory panel that serves as a liaison between the Library and the business community. The Council was the Library's first national private-sector advisory and support group, and has since helped to fund more than 360 projects. Dr. Billington's devotion to the growth and development of the Library of Congress has helped bring a national treasure into the 21st Century and improve access for people all over the country and the world. Dr.…
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