Rossland, Trail, Castlegar libraries to get funding bump from province
By Province of British Columbia
New Democrat MLA Katrine Conroy says that people will see improvements at their local public libraries, including expanded digital collections and internet access, upgraded spaces and programming, and improved air circulation thanks to new COVID-19 relief and recovery funding for libraries.
“Libraries are foundational community institutions that keep everyone from seniors to children connected with each other,” said Conroy, MLA for Kootenay West.
“This funding will ensure that libraries will remain at the centre of our communities and continue providing access to learning and resources for the modern reader.”
Public libraries in West Kootenays are receiving funding as follows:
• Castlegar and District Public Library, over $39,000;
• Nakusp Public Library, approx. $29,000;
• Rossland Public Library, over $32,000;
• Trail and District Public Library, approx. $36,000.
A total of $8 million in COVID-19 relief and recovery funding is being distributed between 71 public libraries, six library federations and three library service partners in B.C.
Libraries can use this new funding to enhance services for people and fill gaps created by the pandemic. This may include adapting their physical spaces, delivering computer and virtual technology training, and developing programs that help people build deeper social and community connections.
This investment builds on a one-time $3-million investment in public libraries in 2020, to expand digital services and computer access during the pandemic. Government also provides $14 million in annual funding toward operating costs at B.C.’s public libraries.
Learn more at https://news.gov.bc.ca/26818
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