Watervliet students from kindergarten through high school will have about three dozen new titles to check out in their school libraries this year thanks to U.S. Congressman Paul Tonko and the Library of Congress.

Rep. Tonko visited Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School to deliver the new books that his office had secured for the school district from the Library of Congress Surplus Book Program. View photo gallery

Rep. Tonko delivered the books to the high school library on Friday, Jan. 12. While there, he spoke with students about the books, the importance of education, and current events including the hot topics in Washington, such as the federal budget, immigration and net neutrality.

The collection of books, valued at more than $500, were chosen by the congressman’s staff based on input from Watervliet Library Media Specialist Allison Novatarski. The books include both fiction and non-fiction titles, ranging from picture books to chapter books to reference books.

Every day the Library of Congress receives more than 20,000 items, however, only about half of the material is retained for the library’s permanent collection. The remainder is designated for donation through the surplus book program. Each year, members of Congress have the opportunity to provide these surplus materials to schools, libraries and educational institutions.