CARSTAIRS - The Carstairs Public Library saw a steep increase in program participation in 2024 compared with 2023, according to the results of the latest Alberta Public Library survey and facility’s annual report.
Containing information about membership, programs, circulation and other things, the survey is completed by the library board pursuant to provincial libraries regulations.
The results were presented during the Jan. 28 council meeting.
There were a total of 3,920 program participants in 2024, up from 2,600 in 2023. A total of 344 programs were operated, compared with 318 the previous year.
The facility saw 18,886 in-person visits, compared with 15,998 the previous year.
The library had a total of 8,452 staff hours worked (7,550 in 2023), 271 volunteer hours (125.5 in 2023), and total circulation of 56,707 (55,528 in 2203).
There were 63 outreach programs in 2024, compared with 49 the previous two years.
The library had 970 active card holders last year, compared with 862 the previous year.
The collection size increased from 18,061 in 2023 to 19,583 in 2024.
The library saw a total of 15,548 website visits and 36,252 Wi-Fi sessions.
The survey included comments on accomplishments in 2024.
“The library board completed a major policy review and have implemented a three-year review process to ensure they stay up to date and are being reviewed on a regular basis,” officials said.
The library hosted two large community events in 2024: the Walk the Block event in August and Comic Con in October, both events being “opportunities to bring the community together over shared interests.”
The library was the winner of the 2024 Minister’s Award for its Tough Topic Kits initiative and worked with other area libraries to provide adult learning opportunities “that are essential across the region.”
Council accepted the reports as information.
