Government Investments in Public Libraries Evident in Stephenville

The results of a $200,000 investment in Stephenville were unveiled today at the official reopening of the Kindale Public Library. The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Education, was joined by the Honourable Joan Burke, MHA for St. George's-Stephenville East; Tony Cornect, MHA for Port au Port; and Cal Taylor, chair of the Provincial Information and Library Resources Board (PILRB). Today's events also launched the library board's early literacy program and marked the beginning of the board's 75th anniversary celebrations.

"We are very pleased to support the important work of the board as they continue to improve our public library system," said Minister King. "The modernization project at Kindale is just one of many; more are underway at sites throughout the province and will result in upgrades making our libraries more user-friendly and appealing."

Through Provincial Government funding, the Kindale site was modernized with a new roof and windows, furniture and shelving, flooring, a new circulation desk, and refurbished washrooms. These changes were the facility's first major upgrades since it was opened in 1991.

"This is a great day for Stephenville," said Minister Burke. "The public library is an important part of our community. I encourage residents to come see the many upgrades. For those with young children, I urge you to take full advantage of the early literacy program."

"I am extremely happy with the investment at the Kindale Library, as literacy unlocks the door to learning throughout our lives," said Port au Port MHA Tony Cornect. "Literacy is integral not only to individual growth and success, but to that of our communities and society, as well."

"The improvements announced today are part of the board's goal to make libraries more inviting and adaptable to the needs of patrons," said Mr. Taylor. "In order to encourage people to use library services, we need our facilities to be modern and inviting. I think we have succeeded in this goal with the changes made. We are especially pleased that the Stephenville Library Board was able to contribute an additional $10,000 to this project which they fundraised. It is extremely satisfying when a local board is able to financially contribute to improvements for their library."

The board's new early literacy program, developed with $60,000 in funding from the Provincial Government, was also officially launched today. Within the next year, all public libraries will offer this new program, designed to promote reading for three to five year-olds.

"Public libraries play a very important role in education," said Minister King. "Our government is pleased to support this new early literacy program, demonstrating our shared commitment to providing children with the best possible start in learning."

Over the past four years, the Provincial Government has provided additional annual funding in excess of $1.8 million, plus one-time funding of $1 million, for provincial public libraries. This includes funding for infrastructure improvements, development of the early literacy program, increased operating hours at 47 libraries, salaries, and training for volunteer library board trustees and staff.

"Our government recognizes the important role our libraries play in communities, particularly in rural areas," said Minister King. "Many libraries in rural communities have already been upgraded. For example, libraries in Placentia, Brigus, Clarenville, Botwood, Gander, Deer Lake, Cow Head, and Labrador City have all been improved over the past four years. I look forward to continuing our government's partnership with the members of the library board as we expand library programs and improve facilities."

The event also recognized the 75th anniversary of the establishment of public library services in the province. The Provincial Government has allocated $50,000 this year for events celebrating this milestone.

There are currently 96 public libraries in Newfoundland and Labrador, with 86 per cent of the population having direct access.

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2010 01 22                                                  10:50 a.m.