Public libraries are asking Islanders to join them in shaping the future. Over the next two months, a series of public consultation meetings will be held across the province to gain insight into the future role of public libraries. The consultations will address a number of issues including the role of communities, partnerships that need to be developed, the impact of changing demographics, and the connection between libraries and literacy.
Ten years ago, the Provincial Library Service imagined a future and planned for new services to Islanders. The Hon. Elmer MacFadyen stated that, “At that time, we were on the threshold of a technological shift in the province, and libraries were intent on being part of that. Librarians imagined a world where libraries were leaders in introducing technology to their communities and providing new information sources in better ways for all Islanders. A report titled ‘Changing Libraries, Changing Lives’ provided a vision for the 1990s.”
This time, the theme of the consultation process is “Strengthening Libraries, Strengthening Communities.” The last ten years have seen unprecedented growth in library use. Libraries in Prince Edward Island have become more relevant to their communities than ever before. Communities support libraries, and libraries support communities.
Kathleen Eaton, Chief Librarian at Confederation Centre Public Library, is excited about this mutual support, “The recent renovations at Confederation Centre Public Library are a testament to the community’s commitment to libraries. With an improved facility, the library is able to offer more programs and services to the community.”
The Provincial Library Service wishes to build on this momentum and explore what can happen next. The information gathered from the public through consultations with key groups and individuals will be used to develop a strategic plan for the coming years. Public forums will be held at:
Summerside Rotary Public Library - January 13, 7:00 p.m. (storm date Jan. 20)
Town Hall Montague - January 15, 6:30 p.m. (storm date Jan. 22)
Confederation Centre Public Library - January 27, 7:00 p.m. (storm date Feb. 3)
French session, Summerside Bibliothèque J.-Henri- Blanchard - January 29, 7:00 p.m. (storm date Feb. 5)
Town Hall in O'Leary - February 10, 7:00 p.m. (storm date Feb. 17)
An information document may be found at www.library.pe.ca
Input can also be provided by E-mail to ajgroen@gov.pe.ca; phone at 961-7322; or by mail to: Provincial Library Service, PO Box 7500, Morell, PE C0A 1S0.