Ontario government is investing in local libraries for life-long learning

Nipissing MPP Monique Smith
News Release

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Ontario is supporting life-long learning and literacy in Nipissing.

The province is investing in local libraries to help build their collections and programs to strengthen community services.

In Nipissing, a total of $30,154 in additional funding is being invested this year in local libraries. Nipissing library boards sharing in the funding include:

Bonfield Public Library Board $2,358
Callander Public Library Board $2,000
Township of Calvin Public Library Board $2,094
East Ferris Public Library Board $2,648
Mattawa Public Library Board $2,412
Township of Mattawan Board $2,032
North Bay Public Library Board $9,141
Papineau-Cameron Township Corporation Board $2,150
Phelps Public Library Board $2,159
Powassan and District Union Public Library Board $3,160

TOTAL FOR NIPISSING $30,154


Providing free, reliable and consistent access to information supports literacy, skills development, research and many other learning needs of Ontarians and helps to build Ontario’s knowledge economy.

Helping Ontarians develop the skills they need to succeed is part of the province's Open Ontario Plan to help the economy in Turning The Corner and create more jobs for Ontarians.

“Local libraries play a vital role in our communities,” said Monique Smith, MPP for Nipissing. “With this additional support from the province, local libraries will have more access to information and resources that will foster knowledge and new ideas.”

“Lifelong learning is an engine of cultural and economic development for Ontarians. The public library plays an important role ensuring continued access to education and information. The McGuinty government is proud to strengthen Ontario’s public libraries and build vibrant communities across the province,” said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism and Culture.

QUICK FACTS

 Ontario is investing $2.85 million in one-time funding to strengthen the province’s public library system. Of that, $1.9 million will be invested in public libraries across the province to build collections and strengthen community services. An investment of $950,000 will be provided to the Southern Ontario Library Services and the Ontario Library Service – North to assist these agencies in maintaining the delivery of necessary services.

 Ontario is home to 320 public library systems, including large, small, rural, remote, Francophone and First Nations libraries, with over 1,100 locations.

 Each year, Ontarians make over 69 million visits to local libraries across the province.

 99.7% of public library branches provide public Internet access.

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