$2 millon for Ontario Libraries
From the Editor, OntarioNewsNorth.com – We all know what a huge part Ontario Libraries play in our lives, especially in Northern Ontario.
Here on OntarioNewsNorth.com, Schreiber Librarian Donna Mikeluk, regularly publishes news of the numerous weekly activities at the Schreiber Public Library. Most Northshore communities lucky enough to have a public library already benefit from CAP or Community Access Program services which offer computer courses (I myself worked as a CAP Programmer years ago), internet access services and other programs to ensure that residents have access to a larger, global community; libraries offer children’s programming, teen drop-ins, gardening clubs, fun nights, craft programs and many more regular workshops and programs which enhance quality of life within our communities.
In White River, the public library is often accessed by tourists wanting information on a variety of subjects including the community’s 125 year history (it is one of the few Northshore Libraries which extends its operating hours during the summer months).
Moneys invested in Public Libraries better our communities in many ways, these funds will no doubt be put to use in many creative ways we will all benefit from.
McGuinty Government Supports Access To Electronic Information
Ontario is providing equitable access to electronic resources in public libraries across Ontario.
The province is investing $2 million in the Southern Ontario Library Service and Ontario Library Service – North. Both agencies will support public libraries by offering electronic services, such as electronic databases, to Ontarians. Ensuring access to this electronic information will support local skills development, including the research and technology skills needed to succeed in a knowledge economy.
This investment will allow Ontario’s public libraries to continue supporting families and in building strong, vibrant communities.
QUICK FACTS
- Today’s announcement builds on investments already made to support digital technology in museums and investments that have supported postsecondary e-learning in Northern Ontario.
- Almost all Ontarians have access to a public library.
- There are 320 public library systems in Ontario, comprising 941 branches and 1,087 public library service points (e.g. branches, deposit stations, bookmobile stops) across the province, including large, small, rural, remote, Francophone and First Nations libraries.
- There are more than 66.5 million in-person visits per year at Ontario’s public libraries.
