Ontario Investment of $113,000 for Ontario Library Services North Project
Province Supporting 10 Projects to Help Libraries Meet Changing Needs
MILTON, ON – Michael Coteau, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, announced today, January 26, 2016, that Ontario is investing $1.6 million to support 10 projects in public libraries across the province that will improve services for Ontarians.
Included among the investments announced was a $113,000 for Ontario Library Services North to evaluate the impact of rural Northern Ontario public libraries by measuring return on investment. It will result in a tool for northern libraries to obtain information that supports: strengthening and enhancing the role of public libraries as community hubs; encouraging the development of new ways to engage with Ontarians; and identifying and preparing leadership candidates. A group of northern public libraries and First Nation public libraries will partner with the Ontario Library Service-North to undertake the project.
The investments are part of the Ontario Libraries Capacity Fund, a $10 million program to help public libraries support strong, vibrant communities and better meet the changing needs of Ontarians. The fund supports new projects that can be adapted to suit the needs of other communities and have the potential for a positive impact on public libraries across the province and the people they serve.
Helping libraries provide high-quality services and information is part of the government’s plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in people’s talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario’s history, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan.
QUICK FACTS
- In addition to supporting research and innovation, the Ontario Libraries Capacity Fund also helps libraries improve and expand internet services, develop user-friendly websites and enhance their collections with new technologies, such as e-books.
- Libraries are a venue for over 203,000 community programs every year, including programs that support early literacy, employment and job skills, technology, social media and computer literacy.
- Since 2003, the Ontario government has provided over $500 million in funding for public and First Nation libraries.
- January 27 is Family Literacy Day in Canada.
