NDP MLAs Malcolmson, Routley, and Walker say people in the Nanaimo region will see improvements from new funding for local libraries

NANAIMO – New Democrat MLAs Sheila Malcolmson, Doug Routley, and Adam Walker say that people will see improvements at their local public libraries, including expanded digital collections and internet access, upgraded spaces and programming, and improved air circulation thanks to new COVID-19 relief and recovery funding for libraries.

“Libraries play a key role in our community,” said Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo. “This funding will support the vital work that libraries do and will help libraries to adapt both physical and digital spaces to our changing world.”

Vancouver Island Regional Library is receiving $180,195.79 in funding.

“Libraries are pillars of our communities – they provide vital services, including information, educational programs, and a place for people to connect,” said Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “Our government is helping libraries recover from the costs of the pandemic and adapt future efforts to people’s needs.”

“Libraries are essential physical and digital spaces for sharing, storytelling, and education,” said Adam Walker, MLA for Parksville-Qualicum. “This investment will support libraries to recover from the pandemic and to enhance the quality programs and resources that they provide.”

A total of $8 million in COVID-19 relief and recovery funding is being distributed between 71 public libraries, six library federations and three library service partners in B.C.

Libraries can use this new funding to enhance services for people and fill gaps created by the pandemic. This may include adapting their physical spaces, delivering computer and virtual technology training, and developing programs that help people build deeper social and community connections.

This investment builds on a one-time $3 million investment in public libraries in 2020, to expand digital services and computer access during the pandemic. Government also provides $14 million in annual funding toward operating costs at B.C.’s public libraries.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022MUNI0029-000767