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PUBLIC LIBRARY NEWS CLIPPINGS - APR-JUNE 2003
YOUTH@BC
Library of computer training courses offered free this summer (Penticton Western News, Penticton, BC - May, 27, 2003)
From June until Aug. 2, the Penticton Public Library will be hosting free computer training sessions, through the Youth@BC Program, made possible by funding from the provincial and federal governments. Classes offered include Introduction to Windows, Introduction to Internet Explorer, Microsoft Hotmail and searching the Internet.
Free Internet lessons offered at Courtenay, Comox libraries (Comox Valley Echo, Courtenay, BC - June 10, 2003)
Free one-on-one instruction on how to the use the Internet are once again being offered by the Comox and Courtenay branches of the Vancouver Island Regional Library. Youth instructor Morgan Jackson has been hired for Youth@BC 2003, a community-based program partnering the provincial government, youth, public libraries and BC high tech firms. Comox Valley MLA Stan Hagen says of the program, "Computers and libraries are logical partners - they both connect people with a vast world of knowledge and opportunity." Sessions will take place on Saturdays and evenings.
Learn about the Internet (Royal City Record, New Westminster, BC - June 11, 2003)
Two students have been hired to teach tutorials and work on the New Westminster Public Library's web site as part of the provincial Youth@BC Program. The half-hour tutorials are free and open to people of all ages.
Internet training available at library (100 Mile House Free Press, 100 Mile House, BC - June 11, 2003)
The computer-illiterate can get some one-on-one help this summer at the 100 Mile House branch of the Cariboo Regional District Library thanks to funding through the Youth@BC Program. Internet trainer Matt Dobson will be providing the training from June 10 to Aug. 23. Dobson says of the sessions," We tailor all the programs to whatever the user needs. So if they're interested in one thing; if their skills are at a certain level, we'll tailor it around them." Dobson adds that the program may evolve over the course of the summer, possible offering parent/child instruction rather than simply one-on-one. He may also visit surrounding library branches to offer assistance. Participants must book appointments for training.
SUMMER READING PROGRAMS
(Note: More extensive reading program coverage will appear in the next issue. - Ed.)
Turn a new page this summer (The Outlook, North Vancouver, BC - May 8, 2003)
The Summer Reading Club offers kids of all ages a summer of fun activities and it's absolutely free. All public library branches throughout the North Shore will be providing the program, which sports the theme "Set the Stage - Read!" Each library will tailor the program to its needs, but all will be offering reading records and prizes based on the number of books read. Over 5,000 kids participated in last year's program and it looks as if even more will sign up this year.
Library briefs: Summer Reading (Chetwynd Echo, Chetwynd, BC - June 10, 2003)
The Summer Reading Program at the Chetwynd Public Library will be offering fun for kids from preschool age to 13 years old. Kids six and younger can participate in activities with weekly themes such as "Dancers", Musicians" or "Puppeteers". Older kids up to the age of 13 can compete in the Survivor Group" to determine the Ultimate Survivor. The free programs run from July 3 to the wind-up picnic on Aug. 22.
Hey, kids! Get ready for Summer Reading Club fun (Revelstoke Times Review, Revelstoke, BC - June 11, 2003)
The annual Summer Reading Club for kids is about to kick off at the Revelstoke Branch of the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL). An ORL press release states that the program will run from July 9 to Aug. 27 and is designed to "encourage children to have fun (through) reading, watching puppet shows, games and other activities." Participants will receive a cool reading record, bookmarks, stickers and the chance to win prizes, including a "fabulous porcupine puppet."
Ladner Library organizes Teen Summer Reading Club (Delta Optimist, Delta, BC - June 14, 2003)
Starting June 23, the Ladner Library will be offering a reading club for teens from age 13 to 18. Prizes will be awarded for every five books read, and a wrap-up party will be held on Aug. 27.
Set the stage for reading this summer: join the club (The Leader, Surrey, BC - June 15, 2003)
The theme for the 2003 Summer Reading Club is Set the Stage: READ!, inviting participants to enjoy the magic of the arts as created through literature and performance. Starting June 23, children can sign up for the program and receive a reading record designed to look like a stage with different pictures that can be inserted to depict various fields of the arts (dance, acting, writing, etc.). Kids will receive a sticker for each section completed and could win a medal for their accomplishments at the end of the program. Pre-schoolers can be enrolled in the Read-to-Me Club, and there is also a club geared toward teens. The Summer Reading Club reaches over 65,000 kids in the province each year and is sponsored by the BC Library Association, the Public Library Services Branch and local libraries.
Library offers summer reading club for kids (Cranbrook Daily Townsman, Cranbrook, BC - June 17, 2003)
Kids can enjoy a summer of free entertainment at the Cranbrook Public Library beginning on June 21 as the 2003 Summer Reading Club begins. Members will get reading records, bookmarks and earn the chance to win prizes based on the number of books read. "Studies show that voluntary reading is the number one factor in establishing good reading habits in children," said children's librarian Ursula Brigl.
LITERACY EVENTS
Celebrate Canada during Book Week (Hope Standard, Hope, BC - Apr. 17, 2003)
The Hope Library will be celebrating Canada Book Week (Apr. 21-27) by holding a number of special events including an afternoon "Read-In" where anyone can volunteer to read a five-minute passage from a favourite Canadian book. In the evening author Kathryn Bride will give a talk and photo show of her latest book about mountaineer Phyllis Munday.
It's a good week for reading Canada's books (The Record, Burnaby, BC - Apr. 19, 2003)
The Writer's Trust, which promotes Canada Book Week, has chosen as its theme this year, "Literary Landscapes and Literary Sites,' and has commissioned work by a number of Canadian authors as part of the event. The Trust also sponsors a bookmark and copyright contest for kids. A Writer's Trust brochure can be picked up at the library's Canada Book Week display.
Mill Bay AAPPE hour a real readers' delight (Cowichan Pictorial, Duncan, BC - Apr. 20, 2003)
As part of National Book Week, the Mill Bay Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library will be holding a premiere AAPPE (Author APPreciation Event) that will allow readers of all ages to come and meet and hear from a diverse gathering of local authors. The event, from 3 to 4 pm on April 23, will also be shot on video by local high school students. Door prizes and refreshments will also be offered.
Local writers celebrated in Canada Book Week (Gulf Islands Driftwood, Salt Spring Island, BC - Apr. 23, 2003)
With some 90 published writers living on Salt Spring Island, the organizers of Writers' Day at the Library (on Apr. 27) are hoping for a large turn-out for the third annual event marking Canada Book Week. The day-long celebration, a collaboration between the library, the Salt Spring Writers and Friends (SSWF), and the Writer's Trust of Canada, features A Writer's Life reading and discussion with author Brain Brett, as well as a display of books by residents. Islands are also encouraged to bring down any copies of books that the library is missing in its display. The SSWF hopes that this will be the first of more joint ventures between the organization and the library.
GVPL marks Book Week (Victoria News, Victoria, BC - Apr. 23, 2003)
The Greater Victoria Public Library is marking Canada Book Week by hosting a number of special author appearances at branches throughout the Capital Region. Seating is limited and registrations are recommended.
Have you got the write stuff? (Tri-City News, Port Coquitlam, BC - Apr. 23, 2003)
In honour of Canada Book Week, the Coquitlam Public Library and author Marion Crook will help those looking to get in touch with their inner writer by providing a pair of workshops. The Creative Writing session will help those getting started on their craft, while How to Get Published will assist those who have finished work or beginners who hope to get published in the future. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required.
Hazelton library short story contest winners (Interior News, Smithers, BC - Apr. 23, 2003)
The Hazelton District Public Library, with support from local business, present the winners of the first "It was a dark and stormy night" short story writing contest. The contest was a way to celebrate Canada Book Week, with a reception for the winners scheduled for Canada Book Day.
Local celebrities take a turn at reading (Maple Ridge News, Maple Ridge, BC - Apr. 23, 2003)
A host of local notables will be helping celebrate Canada Book Day by giving readings at the Maple Ridge Library as part of the library's activities for the annual event. Library manager Carol O'Kennedy says the idea of having prominent community members do public readings "is to demonstrate that everyone in the community reads, from top to bottom." The day's festivities also includes a literacy trivia game, prizes and the presentation to the local winner of the Fraser Valley Regional Library's people's choice awards.
Author signs war book (The Record, Burnaby, BC - Apr. 23, 2003)
More than 30 BC writers, including New Westminster author Gordon Mumford, will be on hand at Canada's biggest book-signing event held at the Vancouver Public Library as part of Canada Book Week celebrations. Mumford's book recounts his experiences during WWII.
Libraries host North Shore writers' fest (North Shore News, North Vancouver, BC - Apr. 25, 2003)
To coincide with Canada Book Week, the North Vancouver City Library is hosting the fourth annual North Shore Writers' Festival from Apr. 27 to 30. The event includes a variety of author readings and writer's workshops.
AUTHOR READINGS
Popular children's author reads at library (Chilliwack Times, Chilliwack, BC - Apr. 22, 2003)
Grade 3 and 4 students will be entertained at the Chilliwack Library on Apr. 24, when local author Deborah Turney Zagwyn appears for a book reading and discussion.
Author Sheila Munro reads in valley library (Trail Daily Times, Trail, BC - Apr. 28, 2003)
The Beaver Valley Library is pleased to present a reading by author Sheila Munro on Apr. 29. Munro will be reading and discussing her latest book, Lives of Mothers and Daughters: Growing up with Alice Munro.
Ruurs's "Wild Babies" unveiled here May 14 (Armstrong Advertiser, Armstrong, BC - Apr. 30, 2003)
Children's author Margaret Ruurs and illustrator Andrew Kiss will be at the Armstrong Library on May 14 to launch their new collaboration called "Wild Babies". The pair will be on hand to autograph copies of the book and talk with visitors.
Author of Lake book to read at library (Lake Cowichan Gazette, Lake Cowichan, BC - May 7, 2003)
The Cowichan Library will be hosting a reading and discussion by Lynne Bowen, author of Those Lake People: Stories of Cowichan Lake, on May 14. Bowen's book tells tales of the lake from the turn of the century.
Author reads his adventure stories at the Campbell River library (Campbell River Mirror, Campbell River, BC - May 7, 2003)
Popular children's author Shane Peacock will be reading at the Campbell River Library on May 8. Peacock is the author of the acclaimed Dylan Maples Adventure Series. The fourth title in the series will be released later this year and is set in British Columbia.
Two authors to read at library (Trail Daily Times, Trail, BC - May 12, 2003)
The Trail and District Public Library is welcoming two authors for upcoming readings. On May 14 Dr. David Perrin will be returning to offer more humorous stories about his life as a veterinarian. And on May 21 Doukhobor historian Koozma Tarasoff will read from his book, Spirit Wrestlers.
Take a literary journey to the banks of the Fraser (The Record, Burnaby, BC - May 14, 2003)
As part of the Federation of B.C. Writers annual conference, Bill Richardson, author of Bachelor Brothers, will be giving a free reading at the New Westminster Public Library.
Noted writer visits (Williams Lake Tribune, Williams Lake, BC - May 15, 2003)
Sharon Butala, the award-winning author of 14 books from all writing genres and an Order of Canada recipient in 2002, will be at the Williams Lake Library on May 20. Butala's visit is sponsored by the Canada council and the Western Writers Union of Canada.
Writer returns home (Prince George Free Press, Prince George, BC - May 22, 2003)
The Prince George Public Library presents a discussion with author Brian Fawcett, author of the newly published book Virtual Clearcut. Fawcett grew up in Prince George and will discuss his experiences here and the development of the city.
DONATIONS & FUNDRAISING
Imagination Gala a success (Whistler Question, Whistler, BC - Apr. 17, 2003)
Two hundred and ninety guests packed the Westin Resort and Spa on Apr. 12 for the Imagination Gala fundraiser aiding the Whistler Public Library and Museum Capital Campaign. Over $58,000 was raised.
Capital Campaign calls it quits (Whistler Question, Whistler, BC - June 12, 2003)
After two years of fundraising, the Capital Campaign for the new Whistler Public Library and Whistler Museum and Archives has called it quits. To date, the campaign has raised only $760,000 of the $3 million required to get the project underway. Difficulties in fundraising in the current economy are being blamed for the shortfall. Campaign organizers, local government and the library, museum and archives will now await the outcome of the 2010 Winter Olympic bid, which could have a major effect on the project.
Bargain reading (100 Mile House Free Press, 100 Mile House, BC - Apr. 16, 2003)
Photo with caption - The Apr. 12 100 Mile House Public Library Book Sale raised $613, money that will go towards the purchase of new books.
Activities galore sponsored by the library (Creston Valley Advance, Creston, BC - Apr. 24, 2003)
The Creston Public Library's garden party fundraiser collected over $1,000. The second annual read-a-thon takes place on May 10. Last year, teens raised over $700 by reading all through the night.
Trail library buys books for boys with $1,500 grant (Trail Daily Times, Trail, BC - Apr. 29, 2003)
An ABC Canada Literacy Grant of $1,500 has helped the Trail & District Public Library purchase books that will assist in encouraging recreational reading in boys from toddler age to young adults. Seventy-four titles have already been added to the collection with another 21 still on order.
CBC host to read for library (North Shore News, North Vancouver, BC - May 4, 2003)
Stuart McLean, of the popular CBC radio show The Vinyl Café, will be at the Capilano College Performing Arts Theatre on May 10, hosting An Evening with Stuart McLean. The event is a benefit for the new Lynn Valley Library. Tickets are $36.
One book sale down, another one to go (Maple Ridge Pitt-Meadows Times, Maple Ridge, BC - May 9, 2003)
The Friends of the Maple Ridge Public Library raised over $3,000 at a recent book sale, with funds earmarked for the creation of Storytelling Kits. The kits will be produced by library staff and be available for loan to local daycares and other children's organizations. The Pitt Meadows Library is ready to hold a book sale of its own on May 10.
Book worms (Campbell River Mirror, Campbell River, BC - May 16, 2003)
Photo with caption - The Campbell River Eagles Club Ladies' Auxiliary has presented the Campbell River Library with a cheque for $300 US to help buy large print books.
Altrusa makes a donation (Nanaimo Daily News, Nanaimo, BC - May 20, 2003)
Photo with caption - members of the Altrusa Club of Nanaimo present representatives from the Friends of the Library and the Nanaimo Library with a cheque for $2,500. The funds will be used to purchase talking books for shut-ins.
Library gets donation of Raffi books and CDs (Okanagan Sunday, Kelowna, BC - May, 25, 2003)
The Okanagan Regional Library has received over 1,400 CDs and books by children's entertainer Raffi. The items, donated by Early Childhood Development Minister Linda Reid and sent to all BC libraries, are designed to promote children's literacy throughout the province. Raffi was selected because of his BC roots and the way his work uses music and words to improve language development.
CVCF helps six organizations (Valley Echo, Invermere, BC - May 28, 2003)
The Invermere Public Library was one of six local organizations to collect a grant from the Columbia Valley Community Foundation. The library received $1,923 for the continuation of its story time program.
Students add a touch of French to local libraries (The Leader, Surrey, BC - May 28, 2003)
After a few months of saving their pennies, students from Premier Pas Parent Participation Preschool have raised enough money to purchase new French books for the Surrey Public Library. The books, selected to give other Surrey kids more options when borrowing French titles, were presented to the library on May 21.
BUDGETS & FINANCE
Library budget pre-approved (Esquimalt News, Victoria, BC - May 7, 2003)
Esquimalt council claims it had no chance to give input on the Greater Victoria Public Library's (GVPL) 2003 budget levy, since the budget was approved by the library before Esquimalt (one of four GVPL member municipalities) had an opportunity to vote on it. Esquimalt rep. on the GVPL board, Councillor Jim King, calls it "a sign of the times" that Esquimalt must go along with decisions made by the larger municipalities of Victoria and Saanich. Esquimalt mayor Darwin Robinson says he would have had no trouble turning down the tax increase, but adds that that might create an "interesting" dilemma given that a new Esquimalt branch library is due to open in mid-May.
Council had its chance to have a say on library budget (Esquimalt News, Victoria, BC - May 14, 2003)
In a response to the previous story from Sandra Anderson, CEO of the GVPL, Anderson claims that the GVPL budget was submitted to all councils at the end of February, along with an invitation to participate in each of their 10 municipal councils. Since Esquimalt chose not to be involved in this process, Anderson states "they only have themselves to blame."
Library receives new cash (Eagle Valley News, Sicamous, BC - Apr. 16, 2003)
The Okanagan Regional Library received a $20,000 increase over last year in its annual funding from the provincial government. The $821,691 grant will be used to cover operating costs and purchase new materials. Provincial support throughout the province increased by $300,000 over last year. The additional funding was created by increasing the per capita payments "for public libraries in our heartlands communities", said Shuswap MLA George Abbott.
Chairman vows to fight for rural library branches (Morning Star, Vernon, BC - May 25, 2003)
Carol Williams, chair of the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL), has just finished a tour of all 29 of the region's libraries, and while smaller branches are often threatened during budget talks, she feels the libraries are worth fighting for. "What it (tour) has shown me is that these libraries are often the heart and soul of a community and the services are valuable. I'm an advocate for small libraries," says Williams, who is also a Coldstream councillor. One of the challenges, according to Williams, is providing consistency of service over a vast area with many individual needs. She adds that one of the ORL's goals is to help smaller libraries promote what they have to offer to the community.
Library gets more money (Terrace Standard, Terrace, BC - Apr. 16, 2003)
The Terrace Public Library's annual grant from Victoria is up almost $900 from last year. The increase is the result of the government's decision to increase per capita funding to libraries operating in rural regions.
Fernie library funding increases (Free Press, Fernie, BC - Apr. 16, 2003)
The City of Fernie is sticking to its commitment of a five per cent increase to the library budget over the next three years, but library board chair Darren Harrold notes that these increases will still leave Fernie library funding at a per capita rate lower than the provincial average. The city also granted the library's request for an additional $25,000 to allow the library to be open on Fridays. Council has made a motion for the city, the library and Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) to discuss the issue of library funding. Currently, Fernie city residents pay far more for the same services that are provided to RDEK residents within the library's service area.
Operating grant increases (Powell River Peak, Powell River, BC - Apr. 16, 2003)
Powell River District Public Library will receive a funding increase of a five per cent from the province as part of a total $300,000 increase in per capita payments made to BC public libraries to compensate for declining populations in rural areas. The library grant of $52,796 is part of $8.92 million in funding for public libraries across the province for 2003-04.
Library per capita funding set (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam, BC - Apr. 19, 2003)
Coquitlam Public Library will receive $14,183 more in per capita funding than last year, making its provincial funding for 2003-04 a total of $229,862.
Additional funding to strengthen public libraries (Interior News, Smithers, BC - Apr. 23, 2003)
Thanks to a $300,000 overall increase in the province's per capita operating grant payments to public libraries, the Smithers Public Library will receive $412 more than in the previous year. The Hazelton library will see a boost of $1,141. Says George Abbott, Minister of Community Aboriginal and Women's Services, "We are committed to providing resources that local communities and their residents depend upon."
Library $$ (Bridge River-Lillooet News, Lillooet, BC - Apr. 23, 2003)
The Lillooet Area Public Library received a slight increase in its annual operating support from the province, from $13,529 last year to $13,975 for 2003-04.
Surrey libraries get $716K (The Leader, Surrey, BC - Apr. 23, 2003)
Surrey Public Library's $716,000 provincial annual operating grant for 2003-04 represents the largest amount the province has ever paid the library for per capita grants and includes the largest increase from last year for any library in the province. Says Surrey's Chief Librarian Beth Barlow, "I think the thing for us is Surrey is a (rapidly) growing city and that's a nice recognition from the province that you have to have services."
Provincial funding up for public library (Squamish Chief, Squamish, BC - Apr. 25, 2003)
A provincial operating grant increase of $1,375 has left a smile on the face of Squamish Public Library librarian Maureen Painter. "It's very good news", said Painter, who added, "With cutbacks to the school libraries, we've really felt the added pressure on our resources and staff." The library grant totalled $40,747.
Library grants up from 2002 (The Gazette, Grand Forks, BC - June 11, 2003)
The Grand Forks & District Public Library has seen its provincial operating grant go up slightly from 26,068 to $27,271. The Greenwood Public Library and the Midway Public Library's grants remained the same as the previous year at $3,187 and $3,000 respectively.
BUILDINGS
Number crunch on for library (Cowichan News-Leader, Duncan, BC - Apr. 30, 2003)
Members of the Cowichan Community Centre Commission were dismayed when the lowest bid to build the new Cowichan Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library came in at over the maximum building budget of $2.7 million. The bid of $2.8 million, from the Kamloops-based Tri-City Construction, does not include extra fees that would push the project to nearly $500,000 over budget. The commission is looking at a number of options to resolve the issue, including finding extra money, redesigning and retendering. The 12,800 sq. ft. facility is slated to open in one year.
Library finally ready to go (Cowichan Pictorial, Duncan, BC - June 15, 2003)
It will cost $200,000 more than originally budgeted and it will have about $500,000 less in features, but the go-ahead for the new Cowichan Library has been given by regional directors. The nearly $430,000 slashed from the project comes from the removing of 80 seismic pilings that have been deemed redundant by a geo-technical report. A $400,000 five-year loan will make up the rest of the shortfall. Project features such as automatic doors, tiled washrooms and wood ceilings have remained a part of the plan. "The majority of the commission feels the building meets the community's expectations," said Cowichan Community Commission chair George Seymour.
Rutland library branch moving (Kelowna Capital News, Kelowna, BC - May 14, 2003)
The Rutland Branch of the Okanagan Regional Library will be closed from May 23 to June 8 while it moves to a new location within the same building.
New Vernon library a priority for board (Morning Star, Vernon, BC - May 23, 2003)
Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) board chair Carol Williams says that "The process is well under way." regarding the building of a new library in Vernon. Criteria has now been established for the facility, due to open in 2005. With the present library space only making up 52.9 per cent of the sq. ft. required by policy set for the population served, Williams adds, "There is no question that there is a need." With the planning process underway, Williams is encouraging the public to give ORL board members input about the project.
Large numbers checking out new library space in Enderby (Morning Star, Vernon, BC - June 8, 2003)
Circulation at the new Enderby library is up 22 per cent this year, and the reason is the new high-profile location according to ORL executive director Lesely Dieno. "We are getting a lot of new foot traffic compared to the old location," she says. The larger space is also more welcoming for patrons and the added room has allowed library staff to expand services and programs.
Library concept due soon in N. Van City (North Shore News, North Vancouver, BC - May 16, 2003)
North Vancouver City council has approved a preliminary conceptual approach for the development of plot of land that would include space for a 35,000 sq. ft. library and a 3,000 sq. ft. daycare facility with a total cost of about $16.8 million. Some councillors were hesitant about building the library all at once, but others argued that building in phases would be more costly and less efficient. Other council members countered charges that the library was too big by noting that libraries are no longer simply repositories for books and that the space is needed to accommodate necessary high-tech times.
NVD goes along with L. Valley project (North Shore News, North Vancouver, BC - May 21, 2003)
North Vancouver District council has decided to go it alone in the construction of its Lynn Valley town centre project that will include a 40,500 sq. ft. library. Originally council that proposed a partnership with private companies, but an agreement could not be reached between the municipality or any of the four potential partners. The project had already been considerably scaled down, from a cost of $36 to $28 million, with the library facility costing $13 million (funds to come from the sale of the current library site, $6 million authorized in a 1996 referendum and a financing option yet to be determined).
New library praised by patrons (Esquimalt News, Victoria, BC - May 21, 2003)
Esquimalt residents can now boast about having the most modern library in the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) system. The new facility, which opened on May 15, is 8,600 sq. ft (20 per cent larger than the old library) and includes over 80,000 items to loan, including almost 25,000 children and young adult books. The library is also the first in the system to have flat-screen computer monitors and has doubled its number of computer workstations. Susan Henderson, spokesperson for GVPL, says that with the increased size of the branch should come increased borrowing patters as smaller libraries tend to get "read out" over time. The library is located at the back of the new municipal complex (that also houses the new City Hall), facing an area of public space that will hopefully be a new hub of activity for the community.
Rec property rezoning takes first step (Gulf Islands Driftwood, Salt Spring Island, BC - June 4, 2003)
At the recent Trustee committee meeting, the first step was taken toward the rezoning of the Rainbow Road recreation site for community recreation when staff were directed to draft a bylaw for first reading. Part of the recreation plan could include a new library facility, but the Official Community Plan (OPC) currently prohibits library use outside of the village centre. If the library board decides to build there, an OPC amendment would be required, triggering another public hearing.
CHILDREN'S CORNER
Reading challenge first among Canadian libraries (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam, BC - May 3, 2003)
Successful Reading Link Challenge teams from local elementary schools in Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam will be competing in a district final on May 7. The challenge, sponsored by the Coquitlam Public Library and the Terry Fox Library, is based on a successful US version that began seven years ago at the Kalamazoo Public Library in Michigan. It was created to improve reading among Grade 4 and 5 students. Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam are the first libraries in Canada to try the program.
Children's books provide foundation for life-long readers (Richmond News, Richmond, BC - May 10, 2003)
The first of a monthly column about children's books, written by Public Library youth services specialists. In this column, by Head of Youth Services, Helen Moore, Moore reveals her own personal favourites from her youth and offers a recommendation for a book to help parents choose "life-changing" books for their children.
Designing students (The Record, Burnaby, BC - May 14, 2003)
Out of over 1000 entries submitted from all over the Lower Mainland, 18 winners have been announced in the Design-a-Bookmark contest sponsored by Public Library InterLINK. Prizes of cash and gift certificates were awarded, and the winning designs will be featured on bookmarks distributed throughout the Lower Mainland.
Library recognizes teens (Richmond Review, Richmond, BC - May 15, 2003)
About 150 teens who have been active in the Richmond Public Library over the past school year were recognized by the library on May 13. Every week, about 60 teens can be found at the library assisting as reading buddies, after-school tutors or Internet trainers. The teen volunteers received certificates and a voucher to erase all their overdue fines. Groups that had contributed to the youth programs were also honoured.
Students hope art project will put bums in seats (Times-Colonist, Victoria, BC - June 10, 2003)
More than 80 Grade 9 and 10 students at a local junior secondary school have turned their painting talents on chairs from the children's section of Victoria library branches. The students are painting images from their favourite kids books - from Dr. Seuss to Winnie the Pooh - on the furniture, which will be exhibited at a gallery before being returned for use at the libraries. The idea by art teacher Lily Wallace was at first a tough sell to the library, but once the library's youth services co-ordinator Colleen Stewart saw some sample photos, she was convinced. "I thought it would really liven up the libraries and create some whimsy," said Stewart.
AROUND THE PROVINCE
Agreement finally inked with library staff (Chilliwack Times, Chilliwack, BC - May 6, 2003)
After two and a half years of negotiations an agreement has been reached between 320 library workers and the Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL), ending a month-long flurry of talks. Workers had been without a contract since December 2000. The new five-year agreement, retroactive to Jan. 1, 2001, will give workers a 2.5 per cent pay raise and increase benefit coverage from 60 to 80 per cent. Balancing these gains for workers was the concession over Sunday work hours, the main sticking point in the long dispute. Under the new agreement, two current staff can be scheduled for one four-hour Sunday shift every four weeks. Newly hired staff can be scheduled for seven-hour shifts. A $1.50 per hour "shift differential" will be paid during these periods. This schedule will allow FVRL libraries to open for eight hours on Sundays all year round (the old contract allowed Sundays hours only between Thanksgiving and Easter), if they choose to. FVRL chief executive Jean Dirksen called the agreement an opportunity to make public libraries more relevant in the future and give them the ability to respond to the desires of municipalities regarding increased hours of operation. Marina Kristjanson, president of CUPE local 1698, was less enthusiastic, describing the entire process and extremely difficult and remarked, "We did the best we could, and we'll just have to see how it plays out in the future."
FVRL to stay intact (Langley Times, Langley, BC - May 25, 2003)
FVRL members Abbotsford and Chilliwack have withdrawn their threats to break away from the library system after details of the newly approved contract with library workers were released. The key issue for the municipalities was the scheduling of Sunday operating hours. The new deal will give municipalities more flexibility in delivering that service. The issue of overtime was also a problem, since other municipal staff who work Sundays do not get paid extra. Abbotsford and Chilliwack contribute 25 per cent of the FVRL's operating budget. If they had left the system, costs would have been down-loaded to smaller libraries like White Rock and Hope.
Volunteers deliver books to household readers (Summerland Review, Summerland, BC - Apr. 17, 2002)
Profile of the Summerland Library's Library at Your Door Service, which has used volunteers to deliver library books to housebound readers since 1999.
Photo with no title (Chetwynd Echo, Chetwynd, BC - Apr. 22, 2003)
Mayor Evan Saugstad presents Chetwynd Library Board member Gemma Jewison with a Certificate of Appreciation in honour of her eight years of service.
Library to go municipal (Squamish Chief, Squamish, BC - Apr. 25, 2003)
Once the third reading of a bylaw before council is passed, the Squamish Public Library will become a municipal library. While there will be no noticeable changes in how the library operates, librarian Maureen Painter says the change will help the library with its strategic planning and obtain long-term, secure funding from the district. If the by-law is adopted, the change would take place on May 15.
Library recognizes IODE (Nelson Daily News, Nelson, BC - Apr. 30, 2003)
The British Columbia Library Trustees Association recently presented a Library Advocacy Award to the IODE Kokanee Chapter for their decades of fundraising assistance on behalf of the Nelson Municipal Library.
Library invites readers to Stanley Park (Vancouver Sun, Vancouver, BC - May 2, 2003)
The Vancouver Public Library's One Book, One Vancouver Program, which selects and promotes a novel each year as a must-read, has chosen Timothy Taylor's first novel, Stanley Park, for the honour. "I'm happy, I'm delighted, I'm flattered," said Taylor. The promotion for the book will include book readings, guiding walking tours of Stanley Park (where the story of a chef obsessed with local ingredients mainly takes place) and food-related events. Taylor can also expect to see a spike in sales as last year's selection, The Jade Peony, got a boost to the tune of about 6,000 copies. One Book, One Vancouver winners are chosen by library staff rather than patrons, as past similar programs in other cities have shown that getting input from the public produces too many choices and no clear winner.
Staff photos are needed (The Gazette, Grand Forks, BC - May 7, 2003)
Grand Forks Public Library staff are appealing to the public to assist them with a display they are preparing celebrating the history of the library. Part of the display will include photos of past librarians, but pictures of two, Marjorie Reynolds and Alice Hammond, cannot be located. If anyone has a photo of either women, please contact the library.
Pages for posterity (Langley Times, Langley, BC - May 7, 2003)
Fraser Valley bookworms have made their selections and the results have been tallied following a call by local libraries to patrons to name their favourite novels of all time. Sorting through the over 800 entries of an average of 10 selections each was "a major project" according to Langley City librarian Mary Kierans. The final list is made up of a varied collection of classics and contemporary reads. A lucky prize draw winner received a bookbag loaded with copies of the top 10 selections. The Top 10 Titles: The Lord of the Rings; The Harry Potter series; Pride and Prejudice; A Fine Balance; The Poisonwood Bible; To Kill A Mockingbird; The Hobbitt; Gone With the Wind; Anne of Green Gables; Jane Eyre.
Library promoting image (Trail Daily Times, Trail, BC - May 8, 2003)
Concerned that the image of the library was damaged after the recent referendum on the civic centre/library complex fell through, Trail and District Public Library librarian Joy Huebert has announced that the library board will be assembling an "image committee" to boost the library's profile in the community. It will be the job of the committee - made up of a cross-section of board members, Friends of the Library and the public - to make library users aware of the library's many programs and services, and to be responsive to the needs of the community, or "what we can do for them," as Huebert puts it.
Deroche will soon have its own library (Abbotsford Times, Abbotsford, BC - May 9, 2003)
Mission librarian Shelley Clarkson is going to help residents of Deroche obtain some library service by setting up a free book exchange. Clarkson has so far collected over 300 donated books and is looking for more reading materials, plus volunteers to help out at the new library. A grand opening is scheduled for May 15.
Bill shows library to be on the cutting edge (Daily News, Prince Rupert, BC - May 12, 2003)
A new bill tabled in the House of Commons has shown Prince Rupert Public Library to be on the right track with its proposed facility combining the library and the archives. Bill C-36 looks to combine the National Library and the National Archives "to give a broader mandate to both, and easier integrated access to Canada's document heritage" and has as part of its mandate "to facilitate co-operation among the communities involved in the acquisition, preservation and diffusion of knowledge in Canada." Prince Rupert chief librarian Allan Wilson hopes that this news will lead to financial support for projects like the one planned for Prince Rupert.
Our Regional Library is keeping 400,000 readers engrossed in books (Nanaimo Daily Times, Nanaimo, BC - May 15, 2003)
Feature story about the Vancouver Island Regional Library, which serves about 400,000 people through 37 branches on the island, the Queen Charlottes and the mainland, making it the ninth largest library system in Canada. The report offers some history of the library system (founded in 1936), facts about funding (87 percent from local taxes) and notes some of its many programs and services (including Books by Mail, Inter-library loan, audiobooks and videos).
Event thanks for supporting library (Free Press, Fernie, BC - May 21, 2003)
Fernie Heritage Library members hosted a gala evening as a way to thanks all those who have put time effort and money into the refurbishing of the facility. Library board chair Darren Harrold said that over $1 million has been raised for the project and "it's just amazing how well it's been received in the community and I hope to see it continue throughout the years." City council was on hand and was praised for its decision to provide extra funding that will allow the library to operate an extra day a week. The event also included a silent auction and the unveiling of a leaded glasswork donated to the library by local artist Stephanie Rogers.
Library looks to buy Mining legacy (Free Press, Fernie, BC - May 21, 2003)
In celebration of Mining Week, Jim Bertoia, the chief librarian of the Sparwood Public Library, has applied to the Koerner Foundation for a grant to purchase a collection of annual reports from the Ministry of Mines. Some of the reports go back as far as 1897. Bertoia came across the collection while doing some research and has been offered a special purchase price for the collection from a Winnipeg antiquarian. The collection consists of 51 volumes, with only 1967 missing. "We're on the hunt for that one," says Bertoia.
Easing the loaner traffic jam for popular books (Kelowna Capital News, Kelowna, BC - May 25, 2003)
Okanagan Regional Library executive director Lesley Dieno estimates it will take about three years for all the people who currently have the John Grisham novel The King of Torts on hold to get their chance with a copy. To deal with this situation, which occurs with about 20 books a year (the current hold leader is the new Harry Potter), Dieno is looking at a "fast lane collection" model to alleviate the problem. Basically, selected best-sellers would be available only on a first-come first-serve basis and with shorter loan periods and increased late fines. But with an estimate of over $60,000 to implement the program, the library board tabled the suggestion until next year. A no-cost method is being instituted now instead, which shortens the amount of time a patron has to pick up a book once available and reduces the loan period. Dieno also has asked the public to come forward if they have a copy of a hot best-seller they are done with and could donate it to the library.
Port Moody and Coquitlam get e-Tools with a business focus (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam, BC - June 7, 2003)
By the end of the month, residents of Port Moody and Coquitlam will be able to use their library cards in both systems. Later this year patrons will be able to apply for a universal library card online and search the combined catalogues of the two libraries. These advances are part of Phase 2 of the Smart Choices project, one of 12 of Industry Canada's "Smart Communities" demonstration sites. The local project has also resulted in a website, citysoup.ca.
Adams retiring as library director (Cranbrook Daily Townsman, Cranbrook, BC - June 9, 2003)
The Cranbrook Public Library invites one and all to an Open House on June 27 to wish library director Pat Adams well on the occasion of her retirement. Adams worked at the library for 25 years and touched many people in the community.
Writing winners (Coast Reporter, Sechelt, BC - June 14, 2003)
The winners have been selected out of the 115 entries in the Sechelt Public Library writing contest. Three winners and two runners-up were chosen in both adult and youth categories. All participants wrote on the theme "It Happened at Porpoise Bay". The library will host a coffee house on June 20 to hear the winning entries and award prizes.
Free computer training at library (Kimberley Daily Bulletin, Kimberley, BC - June 16, 2003)
The Kimberley Public Library has some free help for those who want to be introduced to or improve their computer skills when the Bill Gates Mobile Computer Lab comes to the library on June 25, 26 and 28. The lab consists of 10 top-of-the-line laptop computers and up-to-date software. Three free workshops are scheduled to be given by summer students Kate McPhail and Denise Rakebrand. The topics of the workshops are keeping your kids safe online, shopping on the Internet and an Internet safety clinic for kids six to twelve. Kate and Denise will also be offering one-on-one Internet training sessions throughout the summer.
Chief librarian off to Burnaby (Prince George Citizen, Prince George, BC - June 17, 2003)
The chief librarian of the Prince George Public Library, Edel Toner-Rogala, will be leaving Prince George in late August to take up a new post as chief librarian at the Burnaby Public Library. Toner-Rogala came to Prince George from Winnipeg in 1992 and has been involved in a number of community initiatives. Library board chair Dave Sherwood says her absence will be deeply felt. The search for a new chief librarian will begin immediately.
You can borrow a copy, but you'll have to wait (Vancouver Sun, Vancouver, BC - June 20, 2003)
While most of the attention paid to the release of the new Harry Potter book on June 20 surrounds the purchase of the 700-plus page tome, it's easy to forget that public libraries everywhere will be stocking up on the title, as well. But unless you were proactive enough to book a copy well in advance (in some cases up to a year ago), the wait will be pretty long before your chance to read the book comes along. The Vancouver Public Library has 175 copies on order and 977 loan requests. The library hired extra staff to process the books so they can be in eager readers' hands as quickly as possible, but that still means that borrowers at the bottom of the list could be waiting up to four months for the book given the three-week loan period. The head of the library's acquisitions department says there might be a sliver of hope in that Potter readers are extremely voracious and may be finished with the book in as soon as a single day. Over in Surrey the wait-list is a bit more manageable, with 180 books coming in to service 463 reserves. The last book to attract this many requests was Madonna's coffee-table book, Sex.
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