LIBRARY NEWS CLIPPINGS OCT - NOV 2001
THE BIG PICTURE
Pickering, Ont., to review ban on poppy sales (The Daily News, Kamloops, BC - Oct. 22, 2001)
A library board decision to ban all fund-raising at the library - including the sale of poppies - has caused an uproar in the community east of Toronto. Regional Coun. Mark Holland said, "This issue has outraged our community and a majority of Pickering council." A majority of council members have requested a special meeting on the subject. Coun. Maurice Brenner added that public facilities remain public because of the sacrifices made by veterans and that this should never be forgotten.
No poppies in library has veteran seeing red (The Daily News, Kamloops, BC - Oct. 27, 2001)
Retired serviceman Robert Brockleband wants to know why the North Kamloops library refuses to sell poppies for the annual Remembrance Day campaign. He claims a library staff person told him that it's the library's policy to remain neutral when it comes to fund-raising, therefore no group, non-profit or otherwise, can solicit funds at the facility. TNRD director Alice Dalton says that the policy of remaining neutral is common to libraries across Canada and the US. But she added," There's always room for interpreting a policy and looking at a particular request. But in general terms, we want to maintain that policy." After a wave of public outrage, a similar problem in Pickering Ont. recently resulted in the library board's policy being amended to allow the sale of poppies.
Poppies back for sale at North Shore library (The Daily News, Kamloops, BC - Nov. 1, 2001)
Canadian legion poppies will be available at area libraries. Gord Marsh, provincial president of the Kamloops branch of the Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans of Canada, and libraries director Alice Dalton came to an agreement regarding the presence of poppy trays at public libraries. Dalton said that Marsh stressed the educational and awareness aspect of the poppies over their fund-raising purpose. With that in mind, Dalton agreed to have them noting that the original policy has not changed.
A public information dilemma (New Westminster News Leader, New Westminster, BC - Nov. 21, 2001)
Libraries are obligated to purchase materials that reflect the needs and interests of their communities. But what obligation does the library have when certain materials offend some of the members of that community? What should the library do if it displays art that arouses negative reactions? Or when meeting area space supplied to a group who do not share the stated values of our society? These and other related questions will be the topic of the third Ideas Exchange Public Forum to be held Dec. 7 at Booktown in New Westminster. The forum will be led by Beth Davies, Chair of the BC Library Association's Intellectual Freedom Committee. Admission is free.
DONATIONS & FUNDRAISING
Here come the animals (Cranbrook Daily Townsman, Cranbrook, BC - Oct. 23, 2001)
A $4,200 donation from the Columbia Basin Trust has allowed the Cranbrook Public Library to purchase items that will enhance the library's delivery of children's activities, including the Family Storytime program. Some of the new items include books, a puzzle desk and a set of unique cushions shaped like animals for the kids to sit on and play with during story times.
Book bargains galore (The Vancouver Courier, Vancouver, BC - Oct. 24, 2001)
Vancouver Public Library will be holding its semi-annual book sale from Oct. 25 to 28. Prices range from 25 cents to $2 per book and new selections will be added each day.
Coquitlam Public Library lines up busy week of events Nov. 3 to 9 (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam, BC - Oct. 24, 2001)
To boost awareness and raise funds to diversify its collection, the Coquitlam Public Library is hosting a week-long celebration called Live@Your Library. Events and activities include: author readings, a book sale, multicultural performances, Harry Potter Day, a scavenger hunt, silent auction, audiobook tea and an overdue book fine amnesty.
Build your investment skills at the library (The Now, Surrey, BC - Oct. 24, 2001)
Each of the province's approx. 250 public library outlets have now received a selection of 17 investor education books donated by the Investor Learning Centre of Canada and the B.C. Securities Commission (BCSC). A similar program in Alberta in 1998 was very well received. BCSC executive director Steve Wilson says, "By providing books to public libraries, we can help BC investors - especially seniors who are favourite targets for con artists - to protect themselves from fraud and inappropriate investments."
Thanks for supporting Skate for Literacy (The Prince George Citizen, Prince George, BC - Oct. 26, 2001)
To date, the Skate for Literacy event has raised about $8,700. The Prince George Public Library Board would like to thank the Prince George Citizen for their coverage and support of the project.
Pick up bargains at RPL's Chinese book sale (Richmond News, Richmond, BC - Oct. 28, 2001)
Richmond Public Library will be holding a Chinese book sale. Books and magazines in many categories will be available for prices ranging from $1 each for magazines and $4 for hardcover books.
Eagle donations (Ladysmith-Chemainus Chronicle, Ladysmith, BC - Nov.6, 2001)
The Chemainus branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library was the beneficiary of a $500 (US) donation from the Fraternal Order of Eagles Ladies Auxiliary. The funds will be used to purchase books for special needs readers.
Cranbrook Public Library introduces coffee bar (Cranbrook Daily Townsman, Cranbrook, BC - Nov. 9, 2001)
Friends of the Cranbrook Public Library Society have opened a "Loonie Bar" in the library, which will serve coffee, tea, soft drinks and cookies to patrons, all for the cost of a loonie each. Money raised goes towards the library's general donations fund.
Fort St. John library gets $1,000 donation (Alaska Highway News, Fort St. John, BC - Nov. 15, 2001)
The Fort St. John branch of the TD Canada Trust donated $1,000 to the Fort. St. John Public Library as part of the banking institution's promotion of its recent merger.
Views from Pemberton (The Whistler Question, Whistler, BC - Nov. 15, 2001)
The Pemberton Public Library is holding its ninth annual wine and cheese night on Nov. 22. Tickets for the fundraiser are $20.
BUDGETS & FINANCE
ORL levy may increase (Armstrong Advertizer, Armstrong, BC - Oct. 10, 2001)
Okanagan Regional Library's (ORL) proposed budget increase for 2002 of 3.46 per cent will mean the city of Armstrong will pay an additional $2,617 for library service. ORL executive director Lesley Dieno says that the increase will go towards increasing operating hours at all but the four smallest ORL branches.
Township ORL levy increases by $5,138 (Armstrong Advertizer, Armstrong, BC - Oct. 10, 2001)
A proposed increase in the ORL budget for 2002 will mean that Spullumcheen will pay over $5,000 more for library service, ORL executive director Lesely Dieno reported to council. That would make the city's 2002 total contribution $146,000.
Director circulates concerns about libraries (The Morning Star, Vernon, BC - Oct. 12, 2001)
During a presentation by Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) board representatives to the North Okanagan Regional District, director Alice Kim expressed concern over ORL executive director Lesely Dieno's plan to increase operating hours in 2002. "I'd rather see more books than more hours." said Kim. "If I get there and there are not enough materials, it doesn't help to have it open." Dieno countered that it was essential to tackle the issue of hours because equity of service is such a high priority.
Study reveals population drop (Osoyoos Times, Osoyoos, BC - Oct. 24, 2001)
Osoyoos council is concerned about figures presented by Lesley Dieno of the Okanagan Regional Library board, which project a population decline in the community of 38 people. These numbers become important because they effect library service and how much local residents pay on their tax notices for that service. Dieno defended the numbers and stressed that the library's financial plan is aiming at presenting a vision of the future, and is pleased with the feedback she is getting about the library system.
Taxpayers to pay more for library (The Summerland Review, Summerland, BC - Nov. 1, 2001)
The proposed Okanagan Regional Library budget for 2002 will see Summerland taxpayers pitching in an additional 3.128 per cent for library service ($5,237 more than last year). Summerland will not be one of the libraries benefiting from an upcoming increase in hours of operation, but the library was allotted additional hours two year ago.
Library considers card fee - Surrey's new chief librarian fears cuts in annual provincial funding (The Leader, Surrey, BC - Oct. 19, 2001)
If provincial government cuts effect the Surrey Public Library's annual grant (about $700,000) the library would have to consider alternate funding methods, such as a fee for library cards, says chief librarian Beth Barlow. Surrey's libraries are already running lean, adds Barlow, and the municipality is in no position to make up any shortfalls. Barlow also notes that British Columbia already has the lowest per capita support from the province when compared to other Western provinces.
Minister hopes to spare libraries from cash cuts (The Leader, Surrey, BC - Oct. 24, 2001)
George Abbott, the minister of community, aboriginal and women's services, says he is confident library funding can be maintained despite the government's announcement to cut its budget by a third, but the minister added that it's too soon to make promises. "I have tried to be very honest and forthright," Abbott said. "I don't see any reason for people to fear an end to local library service." Surrey's chief librarian Beth Barlow says she is still prepared to explore alternate revenue sources, such as a fee for library cards, though this action is currently prohibited by the Library Act and would require an amendment of the legislation. Abbott says he expects to know more as the government readies its budget for March 31. Meanwhile, Barlow is preparing her own budget, but will be forced to do so without knowing the level of provincial support.
Library offers overdue amnesty before reinstalling fine system (Arrow Lake News, Nakusp, BC - Nov. 8, 2001)
Nakusp Public Library may be the only library in the province that doesn't charge overdue fines. But that is going to change on Jan. 7. With over 370 items currently overdue (a value of about $7,000), the library simply could no longer ignore the problem. An amnesty for returned items is in effect until the deadline. After that, fines of 10 cents per day shall be charged on all overdue items to a maximum of $5 for all loans except magazines.
Council chips in extra $15,000 (The Calendar, Winfield, BC - Nov. 14, 2001)
Lake Country council agreed to dip into its contingency fund to the tune of $15,000 to improve the furnishings of the new Winfield branch of the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL). Included in the ORL report detailing how the money will be spent is 30 wooden and plexiglass display towers to replace the spinning metal racks that have been deemed unsafe in the wake of a incident in which one of the racks toppled onto a Salmon Arm child.
BUILDINGS
Ceremony officially opens new library (The Valley Echo, Invermere, BC - Oct. 17, 2001)
After years of being relegated to various basements and attics, the Invermere Public Library publicly celebrated its move to a bright new location in the former RCMP offices. A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 13 officially opened the new facility. Librarian Liz Robinson says about the new location, "It's just such a nice feel. It's bright and people can be much more comfortable if they're doing research or just sitting down and reading." The ceremony also featured a cake-cutting and acknowledgments of all the community assistance that went into making the move a reality.
Library beset by delays (Burnaby Now, Burnaby, BC - Oct. 21)
Despite sending out a press release on Oct. 9 declaring the new McGill branch of the Burnaby Public Library open, the doors remain closed due to an oversight that left the building's sprinkler system untested. Without the test, the facility cannot get approval from the city building inspector to open. Burnaby's chief librarian Paul Whitney says the situation is being monitored on a daily basis and the library could be open as early as the upcoming weekend.
McGill Library now open (Burnaby Now, Burnaby, BC - Oct. 24, 2001)
The Burnaby Public Library opened its new 2,070 sq. metre McGill branch on Friday. A few finishing touches are still being worked on, but the new facility has been "surprisingly busy" according to chief librarian Paul Whitney. The new $3.9 million library features a state-of-the-art computer centre (thanks in part to funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation), more study space, separate children's room and a climate-controlled city archive. A formal ceremony will be held on Nov. 10.
Library opening delayed (Courtenay Comox Valley Record, Courtenay, BC - Oct. 24, 2001)
The Sept. 11 terrorist attacks have caused a two week delay in the opening of the new Courtenay Library. A shipment of shelving has been held up due to the acts. The opening is now scheduled for early Dec.
Renovations close library at Wellington (Nanaimo Daily News, Nanaimo, BC - Oct. 26, 2001)
Renovations of the Wellington branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) will begin this Sunday and keep the library closed until mid-January. Patrons may use any other VIRL branch while the closure is in effect. The renovations will address some organization issues. Materials may still returned to the branch, but books taken out before Oct. 28 are not due back until Jan. 14.
More space (The Langley Advance News, Langley, BC - Oct. 30, 2001)
In order for the Brookswood Library to increase its children's section and create space for a staff room and storage, Council has asked that the staff lease an additional 250 sq. ft. of floor space.
Library's big move to take place mid-November (Courtenay Comox Valley Record, Courtenay, BC - Nov. 2, 2001)
The Courtenay library will be closed from Nov. 10 to Dec. 1 as staff ready for the opening of the new facility. The new library will nearly triple the current 4800 sq. ft. of floor space and add more than 40,000 items to the collection.
Reading space (Burnaby News Leader, Burnaby, BC - Nov. 7, 2001)
Profile of the McGill Library, focussing on architect James Cheng and his emphasis on the use of natural light in his design. "I think it's a very welcome place," said Cheng.
TECHNOLOGY
Internet untangled (The Abbotsford News, Abbotsford, BC - Oct. 25, 2001)
The Clearbrook library will be hosting an introduction to the Internet conducted mainly in Punjabi. The session is free but registration is required.
Make the Connection (The Now, Surrey, BC - Nov. 3, 2001)
Surrey Public Library staff have created a website that will make finding local community services much easier. The Surrey Community Connections Web site has links to more than 100 social service organizations in and outside of Surrey. Categories of services include arts, culture, seniors, youth, counseling and parenting. The project was funded by the City of Surrey and the library. To view the site, go to the library's home page at www.spl.surrey.bc.ca and click on the "Community Information" link.
Now plugged in: electronic classroom at the library (The Leader, Surrey, BC - Nov. 7, 2001)
The newly opened Strawberry Hill branch of the Surrey Public Library boasts a one-of-a-kind facility - a 12 workstation computer class that provides free drop-in services for visitors as well as training sessions and rental options for business owners. The classroom was made possible by a combination of fund-raising, local partnerships and a donation from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Addition funding from Human Resources Development Canada covers staff costs and maintenance. In October, more than 100 people used the facility. The official grand opening is scheduled for Nov. 9.
AUTHOR READINGS
Meet author of Ghost Children (The Now, Surrey, BC - Oct. 24, 2001)
Children's author Lillian Boraks-Nemetz will visit the Whalley Public Library on Oct. 25 to read from her new book of poetry called Ghost Children. Boraks-Nemetz is a Holocaust survivor who has used her personal experiences to create a popular trilogy of young adult novels.
Science Lady visits White Rock (The Now, Surrey, BC - Oct. 27, 2001)
Shar Levine, better known as "The Science Lady" will be speaking at the White Rock Library. Levine is the award-winning author of 27 science books aimed at children. The Province of BC's Writers in Libraries Program is providing support for the appearance.
Forsythe at library (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam, BC - Oct. 31, 2001)
Author and broadcaster Mark Forsythe will be speaking at the Port Moody Public Library. He will be reading from his recent best-seller, British Columbia Almanac.
Authors to visit Ladner Library to discuss province's rich transportation history (The Delta Optimist, Delta, BC - Nov. 3, 2001)
Authors Robert D. Turner and Peter Corley-Smith will be at the Ladner Library on Nov. 16 to present slides and discuss their various books dealing with British Columbia's transportation history. Planes, trains and ships will all make appearances during the free event.
Looking at war via young eyes (The Record, New Westminster, BC - Nov. 4, 2001)
The New Westminster Library is hosting a reading by local author Gordon Mumford on Nov. 6. Mumford's two books are set during WWII and are written from the perspective of a young radio officer. Mumford is himself a veteran of that conflict.
Two new books launched by author Margriet Ruurs (Armstrong Advertizer, Armstrong, BC - Nov. 14, 2001)
Armstrong children's author Margriet Ruurs will be reading from her two new books, A Pacific Alphabet and Emma's Cold Day out, on Nov. 16. Ruurs has 14 previous books to her credit.
Children's author reads to youngsters (Times-Colonist, Victoria, BC - Nov. 15, 2001)
Author-illustrator Deborah Turney Zagwyn will show slides and talk about her books at the Central Library on Nov. 16. The event is geared toward kids seven to nine years of age.
Authors to visit libraries (The Delta Optimist, Delta, BC - Nov. 17, 2001)
As part of the Fraser Valley Regional Library's Celebration of the Book series, authors Gordon Mohs and Nancy Hundal will be reading from their respective works at branch libraries. Mohs is an archeologist/writer who latest work is a murder mystery. Hundal has written seven children's books including the award-winning I Heard My Mother Call My Name. Both events are free.
CHILDREN'S CORNER
Library calls on all ghouls and goblins (The Morning Star, Vernon, BC - Oct. 17, 2001)
The Vernon Library will be hosting a Halloween Fun event on Oct. 26. The half-hour program is open to three to seven-year-olds and will be repeated throughout the day. Parents must accompany their kids. The fun includes skits, music, books and Halloween delights. Don't forget to dress up.
Spooky! (Alaska Highway News, Fort St. John, BC - Oct. 29, 2001)
Picture with caption: Fort St. John children's librarian Janice Closson entertained over 40 little ghosts and goblins who turned out for the special Halloween story-time session.
Mother Goose program lands at the Salmo Public Library (Nelson Daily News, Nelson, BC - Oct. 31, 2001)
The Mother Goose Program for infants, toddlers and their care-givers is a great way to socialize through songs, stories and rhymes. The once-weekly program is fun and helps children with language, self-esteem and social skills.
Working together (The Northerner, Fort St. John, BC - Oct. 31, 2001)
Reading buddies is a program at the Fort St. John Public Library that pairs older students with children grades 2 and 3 to improve reading skills and make the experience fun. The kids get together once a week from now until May. Books read are kept track of in a record book and kids receive prizes when a record is completed. The city has helped out by providing bus passes for the buddies so they can get to the library.
Special guest visits library (Shuswap Market news, Salmon Arm, BC - Nov. 2, 2001)
Popular children's book character Lilly the Mouse visited the Sorrento library thanks to the loan of the costume from publisher Harper Collins. The outfit has been making the rounds at Okanagan Regional Library branches where staff have donned the costume to entertain the kids with stories and songs. Lilly is the invention of author Kevin Henkes.
Harry happening at library (Tri-City News, Port Coquitlam, BC - Nov. 3, 2001)
As part of the Live@Your Library Week event, fans of the Harry Potter books will get a chance to immerse themselves in the world of their favourite wizard on Nov. 8 at the Coquitlam Public Library. Participants will be sorted into their houses, play trivia games and an earthbound version of Quidditch. Kids are encouraged to come in costume.
Storytime at the Fernie library (The Free Press, Fernie, BC - Nov. 6, 2001)
Profile of children's storytimes at the Fernie Public Library, currently led by the "Story Time Lady", Sarah Abdallah. According to head librarian Diane Sharpe, the library has had six story ladies since the program began. "The program really encourages children to use the library and use it young so it becomes a lifestyle," Sharpe says.
Written word rules with kids (The Now, Surrey, BC - Nov. 7, 2001)
Despite the lure of computers, kids are still drawn to books. That's the message from Fleetwood Library librarian April Cox, who is preparing to celebrate Canadian Children's Book Week, along with libraries all across Canada. "Kids are reading as much as they used to," Cox added, "Technology is certainly out there and is something that we can use to our benefit. It doesn't discredit the value of books." As part of Surrey's events, children's authors will be visiting libraries to read and talk about the importance of literacy.
Uncovering a good mystery (The Whistler Question, Whistler, BC - Nov. 8, 2001)
As part of its Canadian Children's Book Week events, the Whistler Public Library will be displaying a selection of Canadian mysteries for young people. The theme of this year's Book Week is "Uncover a Mystery". Mystery novels can be a great way to entice reluctant readers to the world of literature, writes the author of the article, librarian Joan Richoz.
AROUND THE PROVINCE
Authors Celebrated (Aldergrove Star, Aldergrove, BC - Oct. 11, 2001)
The City of Langley Library will be hosting Langley Authors' Night on Oct. 24. The evening is dedicated to the outstanding work done by local writers. The event is sponsored by the Langley Friends of the Library, which started the Langley Author's Collection (promoting local writers with a special section in the library) several years ago.
Highway of words (The Whistler Question, Whistler, BC - Oct. 18, 2001)
The Whistler and Pemberton public libraries will be participating in the "Highway of Words" event (Oct. 15-21) which helps to raise awareness about adult and family literacy in the Sea to Sky Corridor. The event is co-sponsored by Capilano College and local libraries.
Two local girls chosen best in bookmarks (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam, BC - Oct. 20, 2001)
The two winners have been announced in the Fraser Valley Regional Library's (FVRL) design a bookmark contest: five-year-old Alyson Eng won in the preschool-kindergarten category and Sylvia Ma won in the grade 7 to 9 division. Both will get their designs on bookmarks distributed to all FVRL branches. They also received a bag full of books and t-shirts featuring their art-work.
Library throws week-long party (The Reporter, Sechelt, BC - Oct. 21, 2001)
From Nov. 4 to 10, Sechelt Public Library will be celebrating its existence as a library service provider to the community. The week-long event will begin with a special Founders Appreciation Celebration acknowledging the work done by staff, board members and volunteers. Each day library staff will instruct patrons on how to access the library catalog from their home computers. A Friends of the Library fundraiser will take the shape of an Antique Road Show. And a Family Day will feature readings by storyteller and author Nan Gregory.
CRD: Library services - Delegation voices concerns (The Williams Lake Tribune, Williams Lake, BC - Oct. 23, 2001)
Led by lawyer Connie Sauter, a delegation of a 15 concerned citizens made a formal request to the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) to reinstate head librarian Lil Mack, whose position was eliminated in September while Mack was away on sick leave. Among the delegation's concerns: that there was no public consultation in regard to the firing; the needs of the community were not addressed in the report that the job elimination was based on; and that quality of service has declined since Mack's dismissal. Sauter added that if Mack's job was not reinstated, the group wants the CDR to adopt a procedure for public library consultation regarding library services levels.
New programs offered at the library (Agassiz Harrison Observer, Agassiz, BC - Oct. 23, 2001)
All the space now afforded by the new library facility has allowed library manger Lorraine Kelley and her staff to develop new programs for both children and adults. Kelley says, "We have a program room now. We are interested in bringing people into the library and giving them programs they want." Some scheduled programs include, pre-school story-times, author readings, slide shows and a "meet your elected officials" night.
Discussion to focus on multicultural issues (The Delta Optimist, Delta, BC - Oct. 24, 2001)
The Ladner Pioneer Library will host a discussion on multicultural issues. A variety of speakers will be present and everyone is welcome to attend. After the Sept. 11 attacks, organizers say this is a very timely event. "On a personal note, I think it's really important to learn each others' culture, and get rid of the suspicion and hatred." says Delta library manager Ann-Marie Mathieu. The event is a partnership with the Advisory Council on Multiculturalism BC.
Library responds to the times (The Record, New Westminster, BC - Oct. 28, 2001)
In light of the recent terrorist events, the library has made an attempt to purchase new materials dealing directly with the tragedy and with the issues that surround it. Also, the piece points out that a carefully tended library collection can be of great help to people wanting historical and background information regarding current events.
Medical information at the library (Kelowna Capital News, Kelowna, BC - Oct. 28, 2001)
Overview of the various medical resources available at the library, from magazines, to journals, books and on-line web sources.
Library News (The Interior News, Smithers, BC - Oct. 31, 2001)
Smithers Public Library librarian Lane Jackson details the various resources available in the library's Reference Section.
Who will be Coquitlam's book boss? Librarian leadership needed at CPL, says provincial library group (Tri-City News, Port Coquitlam, BC - Nov. 1, 2001)
Carol Elder, president of the British Columbia Library Association, is distressed about Coquitlam Public Library's job posting for the head librarian position, which stresses an administrative background over librarianship. "Whoever is running that operation has an influence on how the service is being provided," she says, "If it's a librarian running an operation, then everyone working there can look to them for direction." The current job description lists library experience as "an asset". Colleen Talbot, chair of the library board's hiring committee, says it would be great if they could find someone will all the right qualifications, but there is a dearth of librarians with administrative skills. She also acknowledges that the library staff would prefer a librarian in the position. The person selected from the 23 applications will oversee Coquitlam's two branches, 88 staff and a $2.9 million annual budget. The position has a salary range ! ! of $ 82,692 to $89,440.
Now hear this (Tri-City News, Port Coquitlam, BC - Nov. 1, 2001)
Profile of Coquitlam Public Library (CPL) audio book user Stuart Carruthers and audio book narrator Harold Roberts. The audio book program has been provided for over 24 years and has over 6000 registered users who have access to some 12,000 books on tape in the BC public library system. CPL director John Coyle also comments on how the library provides a "supermarket" of services to its patrons. Editor's note: the audio book service described in this article is a program of the Public Library Services Branch. Harold Roberts is a contractor to the branch.
Richmond Library Unveils New Punjabi Videos, Music Books (The Link, Surrey, BC - Nov. 3, 2001)
Beginning Nov. 13, the Ironwood and Brighouse branches of the Richmond Public Library will be home to expanded music, movie and book collections for those looking for items in Punjabi. Board chair Perry Mazzone said, "There is a large Indo-Canadian community in Richmond and I'm certain that these new additions to our collection will be very popular and will provide a significant improvement to the community." The Nov. 13 unveiling of the materials will include a free Diwali program for children.
Library marks five years in Kelowna's cultural district (Okanagan Sunday, Kelowna, BC - Nov. 4, 2001)
On Friday the downtown Kelowna branch of the Okanagan Regional Library celebrated its fifth anniversary as part of the city's new cultural district. Hundreds of people took in an early morning coffee break and enjoyed author readings. Local officials handed out anniversary cake. Kids enjoyed special story-time sessions and a magic show. A jazz group also performed.
Letters to the editor (The Kimberley Daily Bulletin, Kimberley, BC - Nov. 6, 2001)
Letter from Cranbrook Public Library board chair Derryll White describing the activities of the library board and asking readers to consider becoming members.
Finding the real McGill (New Westminster News Leader, Burnaby, BC - Nov. 7, 2001)
Brief biography of Grace McGill, the former Burnaby librarian who the newly opened McGill Library is named after.
A page from the library (The Interior News, Smithers, BC - Nov. 7, 2001)
Overview of recent activities at the Hazleton District Public Library including staff changes, Christmas programs, an author's reading from cowboy poet Mike Puhallo and results of the prize draws from the library's open house.
Want to know what you MP is reading? Join the library staff, Nov. 14 (The Hope Standard, Hope, BC - Nov. 8, 2001)
The Hope branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library has invited local politicians to a casual get together with residents at the library on Nov. 14. The officials were also asked to share their thoughts about a favourite book. Librarian Lorraine Kelley says, "We view this as a way the library fills its role as a centre for community activity and discussion."
Books on a roll (The Powell River Peak, Powell River, BC - Nov. 14, 2001)
It has been 30 years since the Powell River Public Library launched the Books on Wheels service, which delivers library books to those who were not able to make trips to the library. To celebrate the anniversary, an open house will be held on Nov. 23 to acknowledge the contributions of all the people, both past and present, who have given their time to provide this service.
Busy week at the library (The Whistler Question, Whistler, BC - Nov. 15, 2001)
From Oct. 22-28 all the public libraries in the province participated in the first ever "Typical Library Week Survey." For six days, staff at the library counted things like number of visitors (2,608), hours of operation (51), items checked out (2,243) and reference questions asked (117). Survey results will be posted when available.
Library offers special services for the home bound (The Now, Surrey, BC - Nov. 17, 2001)
Profile of Surrey Public Library's Special Needs Service, which delivers audiobooks, large print books, music CDs, videos and other resources to individuals who can no longer make it down to the library and are unable to enjoy regular print materials. Over 470 people and 27 institutions take advantage of the service.
Library acknowledges community supporters (Peace River Block Daily News, Dawson Creek, BC - Nov. 20, 2001)
About 30 individuals and businesses were honoured by the Dawson Creek Public Library at a library supporters appreciation night held Nov. 19. Head librarian Jenny Snyder thanked all the supporters and went on to describe how each had contributed to the library's success. A short film called Women of the Peace was also previewed, and a plaque honouring a late patron, known for his presence reading to his grandchildren, was unveiled in the children's section.
