Cranbrook library seeks long-term funding.
The Cranbrook Public Library is reacting to a funding announcement from the Province which will provide a funding boost for all public libraries in BC.
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs has announced a one-time $45-million funding injection for all 71 BC public libraries and organizations that deliver library services.
Cranbrook chief librarian Ursula Brigl is unsure of the exact amount they will receive, but say she already has ideas on how to use the funds.
“We based that on the services and programs that the library currently offers and our collection,” Brigl says. “Seeing if we can improve those, make those more robust. And also to see if there are any new initiatives related to literacy.”
The Province is administering the funds in an effort to enhance the library system with programs and resources that benefits people and communities in BC.
Brigl says she’s never seen this large of a funding injection from the Province before.
“The Provincial Government does support all public libraries in British Columbia,” she says. “In addition to that over the past number of years they’ve given us one time grants for specific projects. So they have given us one time grants before but definitely never to this magnitude.”
Funds will be distributed by March 31.
View more information from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs below:
Public library users in communities throughout B.C. will benefit from modernized technology, enhanced programs and services, and better access to information through $45 million in provincial funding.
“We love our local public libraries. They are a vital part of vibrant communities, delivering services we rely on every day,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “From offering regular access to the internet, to delivering programs for families, newcomers, job seekers and seniors, this funding will go a long way to ensure libraries are helping people stay connected, access information and continue their lifelong learning.”
All 71 B.C. public libraries and organizations that help libraries deliver their services will receive one-time grants totalling $45 million in addition to their annual operating funding.
This will give libraries flexibility to address local priorities, including longer hours, bigger digital collections and better access to literacy and lifelong learning opportunities.
Funds will be distributed to libraries by March 31, 2023.
“Thank you for this generous contribution to the B.C. public library sector,” said Erin Hemmens, chair of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) board of trustees. “This is an important time for our library system with a new strategic plan on the horizon, rapidly increasing demand for our digital resources and a continuing trend towards pre-COVID use of our physical branches and collections. Support from the ministry means VIRL can look at new opportunities to build literacy and learning, continue our journey toward reconciliation and build connections across our service area.”
With this additional new funding, the Province aims to enhance the provincewide library system with programs, resources and technology infrastructure that benefits people and communities throughout B.C.
“Investing in libraries is an investment in local communities, and we’re so pleased that the Province is recognizing and supporting the important work that happens in public libraries every day throughout B.C.,” said Rina Hadziev, executive director, British Columbia Library Association. “With over 60 million visits per year, public libraries make life more affordable, foster lifelong learning and community connections, and provide vulnerable people with a welcoming space to access services. This funding will help stabilize public libraries, ensuring they are able to meet the evolving needs of their local communities over the next few years.”
There are 250 library service locations provincewide, ensuring virtually everyone in B.C. will have free access to public libraries.
– Article includes statement from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs
– Ursula Brigl, Cranbrook Public Library chief librarian
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