The Colorado Association of Libraries (CAL) recognized State Rep. Karen Middleton on Sept. 24 at the Aurora CentralLibraryfor her work in supporting libraries.

CAL's Legislative Committee recognizes legislators periodically for exemplary work benefiting libraries in Colorado.

CAL president Jody Howard said the Legislative Committee is especially grateful for Middleton's work on the sponsorship and passage of HB 1072, otherwise know as the 2009 Library Law.

The bill, which has no fiscal impact at the state or local level, expands the powers and duties of the State Librarian (in the Department of Education) to include serving as the respository of the bylaws and the legal service area maps of all library districts.

The bill also addresses issues that arise in connection with the formation of a county library or library district regarding the need to provide written notice of the formation of the district.

In addition, the bill requires that a copy of the library district's bylaws be filed with the legislative body of each participating governmental unit as well as with the State Library. Finally, at the district library level, the bill clarifies certain activities and procedures that apply to library districts that are formed around the state.