Betty White leaves ‘em laughing in Philly

Actress, writer and comedienne Betty White had thousands of library workers roaring with laughter Saturday afternoon at an appearance ending the national conference of the Public Library Association.

Turning her sharp wit toward herself, the 90-year-old White poked fun at her own long acting career.

As to why she got cast in the "Mary Tyler Moore Show": "They wanted a sickeningly sweet Betty White type," she said of Sue Ann Nivens, her character. "Guess they couldn't find anyone sickeningly sweet enough."

She added: "Sue Ann: the neighborhood nymphomaniac."

But the event wasn't just about jokes. White, best known for her roles in "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "The Golden Girls," "The Proposal" and most recently "Hot in Cleveland," told attendees she actually got her theatric start by writing screen plays in high school.

She advocated for animal welfare, and how libraries can get involved with the cause.

"Zoos furnish the experience, but books give the information," she said, referring to animals.

The PLA is a division of the American Library Association. With 11,000 members, its purpose is to enhance the development and effectiveness of public library staff and services.

The event, which attracted some 8,500 to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, is one of the organizations' premier events and hosted in different cities across the country every other year.

Contact staff writer Laura Cofsky at lcofsky@philly.com or 215-854-2771