BC Libraries to get 8 million dollar cash boost in one time funding

Nathan Cullen at today's funding 
announcement for BC Libraries

Public libraries across the province will have a little extra money to work this year, that as the Provincial Government announces that it will be directing 8 million dollars in one time COVID related funding.

The amount to be shared  by the provinces 71 public libraries, six library federations and three library service partners.

Nathan Cullen the MLA for Stikine  and Minister of Municipal Affairs outlined the scope of the one time cash assist in a statement today.

“B.C.’s public libraries have been on the forefront of supporting people during the pandemic through print and digital resources, barrier-free community spaces and reliable internet access. I’ve spoken with libraries right across B.C., from cities to our smallest towns, and this funding from the Province will have an enormous impact on their capacity to keep doing what they do: keep us all connected through a love of learning.”

The money, which could work out to just over 100,000 for each entity,  can be used in a number of ways towards addressing areas of note that could have impacted library operations during COVID. With the release of the funding the province noted how it may be put to work.

Libraries can use this new funding to enhance services 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.

Prince Rupert's Public Library at Sixth West and McBride is a key gathering point for the community and as we outlined last week, the House of Reading is celebrating its 100th birthday this year.

More on today's funding plan can be explored here.

A wider overview of Provincial themes can be found from our archive page.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review.