WILMINGTON, Del. — Congressman John Carney gave remarks today at the launch of an initiative between the federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Delaware Division of Libraries, and the Delaware Financial Literacy Institute that will improve financial literacy in Delaware. The initiative, which is being offered through the state’s public libraries, will provide Delawareans with the tools they need to make smart financial decisions on topics ranging from mortgages and credit reports to student loans and credit card debt.

Today’s announcement was followed by a training session in the Wilmington Public Library’s Inspiration Space. Librarians from throughout the state joined the presentation led by representatives from the CFPB and The Money School, either in person or via video conference.

“The ability to understand and make good financial decisions for yourself and for your family is a skill that every Delawarean should learn. In a lot of cases, it can be the difference between just getting by, and getting ahead,” said Congressman Carney. “I thank the CFPB for bringing their expertise and resources to Delaware, and Delaware libraries for helping to fill this need in our communities. Between this initiative, and the partnership already underway with The Money School, Delawareans have more help than ever before to effectively manage their money.”

“Congressman Carney and the CFPB share the goal of empowering consumers to help them make responsible financial decisions,” said Gail Hillebrand, Associate Director for Consumer Education and Engagement. “This initiative with Delaware’s Division of Libraries and local libraries will help the state’s already-trusted libraries to be community centers for financial education.”

“Delaware libraries are pleased to be collaborating with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to help bring additional financial literacy tools to Delawareans,” said Dr. Annie Norman, State Librarian. “Libraries are conveniently located in communities throughout the state, and are devoted to supporting individuals and communities achieve their full potential. The new set of financial empowerment tools provided by the CFPB will support libraries’ efforts to help all Delawareans achieve their versions of the Delaware Dream.”

Ronni Cohen, Executive Director of DFLI, home of The Money School added, “Delaware public libraries and the Money School have worked together for many years to ensure that every Delawarean has the information and support they need to make smart financial decisions today and into the future. We are very pleased to welcome the CFPB to this partnership, and encourage anyone looking for help to seek out their local library and the resources available.”

Over the last several months, Congressman Carney has worked closely with the CFPB, the Delaware Financial Literacy Institute, and the Delaware Division of Libraries to bring this initiative to Delaware. As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, Congressman Carney has strongly supported the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in its mission of ensuring that consumer finance markets are fair and consistent, and that consumers have the knowledge and ability to make smarter financial decisions.

Carl Shaw, Wilmington Library Inspiration Space Coordinator; Diana Brown, New Castle County Librarian; Annie Norman, State Librarian; Gail Hillebrand, Associate Director for Consumer Education and Engagement​, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; Ronni Cohen, Executive Director, Delaware Financial Literacy Institute/The Money School; Ken McDonnell, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Congressman Carney (right) talks with Gail Hillebrand, Associate Director for Consumer Education and Engagement at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Rod Scott, president of the Board of Managers for the Wilmington Institute Library before today’s announcement.

Congressman John Carney speaks with librarians from throughout the state at today’s launch a new financial literacy initiative between Delaware libraries and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

CONTACTS:

Albert Shields: (302) 691-7333 office/(302) 561-5043 cell
Albert.Shields@mail.house.gov

Beth-Ann Ryan, Deputy Director, Delaware Division of Libraries
beth-ann.ryan@delaware.gov
delawarelibraries.org • libraries.delaware.gov

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