WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today issued the following statement after Dr. James Billington, the 13th Librarian of Congress, announced his retirement effective January 1, 2016:

“Dr. Billington has always viewed his mandate for the Library as far more than just books and data. He believes in making our world a better place through open communication and an exchange of ideas.

“His leadership has been instrumental in the ongoing success of the Open World Leadership program, which has advanced the American ideals of democracy and free markets in the former Soviet Union. Today, we celebrate Dr. Billington’s vision and achievements.”