$1 million for library books

Government is allocating an additional $1 million to the Provincial Information and Library Resources Board for the purchase of books.

This money is earmarked for the purchase of new books in the provinces�s 96 libraries. This greater selection of books at community libraries should encourage an increased interest in reading.

"This is the third consecutive year that government has invested an additional $1 million for the purchase of library books," said Education Minister Judy Foote. "Improving literacy levels is one of the key goals of our department�s Strategic Literacy Plan and the accessibility of reading materials is a major factor in improving reading skills. This investment will help to increase the variety and inventory in the province�s public libraries. It is an investment in education, and in the future of our province."

The Strategic Literacy Plan examines literacy for all ages and outlines strategic directions in the areas of early literacy, the formal K-12 system and adult education.

Media contact: Catherina Kennedy, Communications, (709) 729-0048.

2002 03 21                           3:00 p.m.