Sent on behalf of Minister Michael Chan:
Dear Library Board Partner:
The Ontario government recognizes the key role that public libraries play in building our communities and prosperity. As we continue to develop our knowledge economy, public libraries are vital to ensuring that Ontarians have access to information that supports the growth of knowledge and skills. Following the tragic collapse of the Elliot Lake Public Library, our government sought to restore services, catalogue and equipment to ensure the people of Elliot Lake continued to receive the critical programs and services that libraries offer. I am proud that our government is strengthening our support to Ontario’s libraries through our investment of $1 million in one-time funding to help strengthen our public library system.
Our government values the great work of your boards and staff. With growing demand for community supports, our libraries continue to broaden their services far beyond book stacks and reading rooms. Libraries are cornerstones of our communities offering public spaces where people can learn, receive support finding work, verse themselves in new technologies and enrich their lives. You are instrumental in making that happen by providing access to the tools and resources that Ontarians need. This funding will help build collections, upgrade technology, provide training and fund other programs that will strengthen your role as community hubs.
I have asked the Southern Ontario Library Service, in collaboration with Ontario Library Service – North, to administer the funding to public libraries on our behalf. Agency staff will be in contact with you shortly to provide details on the funding.
Our goal is to build a strong economy and a fair society for all by supporting education and creating jobs. Our public libraries are essential to help us reach our goals. On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, I look forward to working with you to provide the best possible library services to the people of Ontario.
Yours truly,
Michael Chan
Minister