Alberta’s public libraries are calling on the new United Conservative Party government to continue to provide the vital public institutions with adequate financial support moving forward.
While the new government has many calls for funding from various groups and organizations, support of Alberta’s public library system should be a priority.
The Alberta Provincial Public Library Network – which includes Parkland Regional Library serving this region – has sent a letter to UCP Minister of Municipal Affairs Kaycee Madu regarding the need for ongoing financial support of libraries across urban and rural Alberta.
“Libraries are one of the most effective and impactful uses of public funding,” the APPLN states. “Working in partnership, municipalities provide the majority of the funding, but provincial operating grants are critical.
“The provincial investment of under $35 million a year enables hundreds of libraries in large and small communities across
Alberta to offer services needed in their communities as well as supports resource sharing between public libraries to ensure equitable access to all Albertans to public library resources.”
The APPLN says libraries, both large and small, strengthen the provincial economy in many ways, including:
• Enabling job seekers to create resumes, prepare interviews and find jobs.
• Prepare children for school with early literacy programs, services and collections.
• Providing spaces outside of school hours for children to support healthy childhood development.
• Offering life-propelling skills training, allowing Albertans to develop new competencies.
• Assist entrepreneurs with business startup information, resources and advice.
“Together we can help ensure that all Albertans have access to the information, technology, tools and services needed to help our province thrive."
There are no doubt many calls on the new UCP government to provide funding to various organizations and groups in the province, meaning some tough decisions will have to be made going forward.
Nevertheless, the ongoing financial support of Alberta’s excellent library system is a must for many reasons, not the least being that libraries help ensure there continues to be a well-informed and literate population to guide democracy forward.
Dan Singleton is the Mountain View Gazette editor.
