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PUBLIC LIBRARY NEWS CLIPPINGS - AUGUST - NOVEMBER 2003
Author Readings
Map guru offers a closer look at Burnaby's history (Burnaby Now, Burnaby BC, 9/6/2003)
Bruce Macdonald, best-selling author of Vancouver: A Visual History, will be at the Metrotown Branch of the Burnaby Public Library to present his map-based history of Burnaby, Charting Change: An Atlas of Burnaby's Heritage into the New Millennium, on Sept. 25. The project depicts Burnaby in maps from 1825 to 2001.
Trucker reads favourites (The Prince George Free Press, Prince George BC, 9/18/2003)
Author Don McTavish, a former long-haul trucker, will be reading excerpts from his book, Big Rig Two, at the Bob Harkins Branch of the Prince George Public Library on Sept. 22.
The tales of Tim (Nelson Daily News, Nelson BC, 10/3/2003)
On Oct. 3, the Nelson Municipal Library will host a reading by award-winning Vancouver author Timothy Taylor, whose first novel, Stanley Park, was short-listed for The Giller Prize and won the City of Vancouver Book Award. Taylor will also be hosting a workshop the following day. The reading is free, the workshop is $30.
Miller enjoys success of her first novel (The Gazette, Grand Forks BC, 10/8/2003)
Rossland resident and author Almeda Glenn Miller will be at the Grand Forks Public Library on Oct. 17 to read from her first novel, Tiger Dreams. Miller has been promoting the book for almost a year now, and has begun work on her second novel.
Anne Cameron to read at the library (Daily News, Prince Rupert BC, 10/10/2003)
Nanaimo native Anne Cameron will read at the Prince Rupert Public Library on Oct. 21. Cameron began writing scripts and screenplays in the 1970s and now has over 300 books published. Recently she revised her 1981 work Daughters of Copper Women.
Scots author visits library (The Peace Arch News, White Rock BC, 10/15/2003)
As part of the Vancouver International Writers' Festival, Scottish historian David R. Ross will be at the White Rock Branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library on Oct. 22 to talk about his work. Ross has earned the nickname "biker historian" for his method of visiting his homeland's historic sites on motorbike.
Reading by Josephine author (Creston Valley Advance, Creston BC, 10/16/2003)
The Creston Public Library welcomes author Sandra Gullard for a reading on Oct. 18. Gullard is the author of the best-selling Josephine trilogy, the fictional biography of historical figure Josephine Bonaparte.
History author to visit library Wednesday (Richmond News, Richmond BC, 10/25/2003)
Winner of the 1996 Governor-General's Award for his book Ghost Train, author Paul Yee will be at the Richmond Public Library on Oct. 29 to talk about "Writing Chinese-Canadian History."
Author set to discuss the legend of Jones (The Delta Optimist, Delta BC, 10/29/2003)
On Nov. 15 at the South Delta Branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library, author Anthony Dalton will talk about his new book, a biography called Wayward Sailor: In the Search of the Real Tristian Jones, about a legendary adventurer with a larger-than-life and quite possibly phoney history.
Valley author shares her Deadly Thirst (Cowichan Pictorial, Duncan BC, 11/2/2003)
As part of the Author Appreciation Event being held at the South Cowichan Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library on Nov. 4, author Donna Goodenough will discuss her book about California's foster care system, Deadly Thirst: The True Story of A Foster Child's Murder. The event is being headlined by Mill Bay children's writer Joan Givner.
Award-winning author lectures at library (The Now, Surrey BC, 11/5/2003)
Writer and artist Michael Kluckner will be at the White Rock Branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library on Nov. 5 to present his lecture and slide show "Vanishing British Columbia: Old Buildings and Historic Places." Kluckner is the founding president of the Heritage Vancouver Society and his award-winning books include Vanishing Vancouver and The Pullet Surprise.
Authors speak on tugs, salmon fishing (Nanaimo News Bulletin, Nanaimo BC, 11/10/2003)
The Friends of the Harbourfront Branch of Vancouver Island Regional Library are presenting two readings by BC authors that focus on the golden age of West Coast salmon fishing and life aboard tugboats. On Nov. 22 Pat Wastell Norris will speak about his book High Boats: A Century of Salmon Remembered, and on Nov. 29 Doreen Armitage discusses her book From the Wheelhouse: Tugboaters Tell Their Own Stories. Both readings are free events.
Photog to discuss new book (The Whistler Question, Whistler BC, 11/13/2003)
On Nov. 20 at the Myrtyle Community Centre, the Whistler Public Library will be sponsoring a presentation of the new book of photography by Wim Tewinkle called Salish Elders. The coffee table book depicts elders of the First Nations' community in relaxed and familiar settings. Tewinkle will discuss the book and be on hand to autograph copies. Some of the subjects who appear in the book will also be present to talk about the experience. A similar event will take place at the Pemberton Public Library on Nov. 15.
Take a Sleigh ride (Tri-City News, Port Coquitlam BC, 11/19/2003)
Author and historian Daphne Sleigh will be at the Port Coquitlam Branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library on Nov. 20 to talk about her latest book, Walter Moberly and the Northwest Passage By Rail.
Technology
Lillooet Library has new web page (Bridge River-Lillooet News, Lillooet BC, 9/10/2003)
The Lillooet Library's new web page (www.lillooetlibrary.bc.ca) is an invaluable resource for kids going back to school. The site includes reference services, online periodicals, links to local community organizations, information about library programs and a Kids page with Olympics, Pogo, Neopets and Science for Kids.
Your new mantra: The computer is my friend (Royal City Record, New Westminster BC, 9/13/2003)
The New Westminster Public Library is offering a series of computer courses for the uninitiated. The first, Computers for the Totally Terrified, will offer the absolute basics, with following courses building from there. The sessions are free but registration is required. These programs are demonstration only.
Library users to benefit from computer upgrade (The Penticton Herald, Penticton BC, 9/15/2003)
The Penticton Public Library has spent $73,000 to upgrade its computer system from a text-based system to a Windows-based system. Systems librarian Shelly Murphy says that the new Dynix system will allow library patrons to access the library's catalogue from their home computers, a service that should be operational by early next year. Chief librarian Larry Little notes that the library sets aside $22,000 a year for technological change. Over the last two years, the library has replaced all its obsolete computer equipment. An official launch party for the new system is set for Sept. 16.
Internet training continues at library (Cranbrook Daily Townsman, Cranbrook BC, 9/24/2003)
Increased funding from the province and the feds has allowed the Youth@BC program to continue at the Cranbrook Public Library. East Kootenay MLA Bill Bennett says that he is pleased the program is continuing, explaining, "Youth@BC hooks up local youth advisors at the library with members of the community wanting to become Internet literate. It increases the communities' Internet access and helps youth build invaluable job skills such as interpersonal and problem solving skills." The program has so far trained over 8,500 people in the province.
More good news from the Richmond Public Library (Richmond News, Richmond BC, 10/1/2003)
Use of the Richmond Public Library's website increased 40 per cent from 2001 to 2002, according the library's Annual Report to the Community, from six million clicks to 8.3 million. Other areas of increase were in the attendance of library programs, in-person visits and items borrowed. Reference questions were down, but library staff attribute that to the increased amount of information available on the Internet.
History is online (Tri-City News, Port Coquitlam BC, 10/22/2003)
Local history is just a click away now that the Coquitlam Public Library has launched its historical online photo gallery called "Remembering Maillardville". The site (which can be reached through www.library.coquitlam.bc.ca) is made up of material collected by local historian and author Antonio Pare. Material about other areas of Coquitlam will be added to this on-going project.
Library adds chapter on 'wireless' service (The Abbotsford News, Abbotsford BC, 10/25/2003)
The introduction of a new wireless technology at the Clearbrook Branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL) will allow patrons to bring their own laptop computers or other handheld devices to the library and gain access to the library's on-line catalogues and databases. Says Richard Mathieu, FVRL's systems manager, "We anticipate the library will save customers time, provide convenience and reduce the cost of deploying more computers for library use." The Chilliwack Branch of the FRVL debuted the technology last month. The FVRL is the first library system in the province to use the technology.
Sooke library branch patrons to book themselves out in a year (Sooke News Mirror, Sooke BC, 11/12/2003)
By late 2004, library patrons at the Sooke Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) will be able to check out their own books said VIRL executive director Penny Grant. But Sooke library employee Leslie Redhead has expressed concerns about the possibility of the self-checkout being used as a way to reduce library staffing. But Grant says that the VIRL board passed a motion stating that no employee positions would be effected by the new technology. "Staff will be needed and be able to offer value-added services, " Grant adds.
New self-serve checkout at library (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam BC, 11/12/2003)
The Port Moody Public Library now offers a self-serve checkout option. The new service will reduce check-out lines, offer increased privacy to borrowers and free up library staff to spend more time helping patrons with other services. "We wanted to find a means of alleviating the pressure that has resulted from the increase in circulation activity that has occurred in the past two year, " said chief librarian Diana Guinn.
Library may adopt self-serve system (Shuswap Market News, Salmon Arm BC, 11/14/2003)
In a report to district council, Okanagan Regional Library's Don Neddleton said plans are in place to install a self-service checkout system in the Salmon Arm branch. The new system will allow library staff to attend to other duties. Patrons will still be able to use staff-assisted checkout if they choose.
Rossland library upgrading computers (Trail Daily Times, Trail BC, 11/17/2003)
The Rossland Public Library will be closed on Nov. 17 and 18 so that upgrades to the cataloguing and circulation systems can be made, and staff can be trained on the new systems. The last major upgrade to the library's systems was in 1993.
Budgets & Finance
Library taxes rise (The Morning Star, Vernon BC, 9/24/2003)
The Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) draft budget for 2004 calls for a 3.99 per cent expenditure increase, an amount that would translate into a rise of about $1 in library tax to the average homeowner. ORL chairperson Carol Williams says the additional money would mainly be used to purchase more books in order to keep up with demand and help maintain a collection "to a level where it should be." Some money would also be used to implement ORL's strategic plan, including implementing a "fast-lane" system for popular books.
Councillor questions library numbers (The Morning Star, Vernon BC, 10/12/2003)
Vernon city councillor Andre Blanleil is questioning the efficiency of the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL). His primary concern is the location of some smaller branches in relation to other larger libraries, pointing out that Oyama's branch is just 10 minutes from the Winfield location. He adds that people drive from Oyama to other areas to do their shopping and banking, so why not for library service. "If you are going to try to be everything to everyone, the costs are going to be huge." Blanleil wonders if the ORL looks at alternatives to increasing the budget each year. But ORL chairperson Carol Williams says there are no current plans to downsize the library system and that the Oyama branch is well used. In the past, there has been a recommendation from ORL administration to close the branch, leading to some tension with board members.
Story time boosted (The Morning Star, Vernon BC, 10/17/2003)
Okanagan Regional Library directors have agreed to direct almost $12,000 to the library system's storytime collection and related supplies. The money will be taken from the annual management salary surplus. "We wanted to find a way to use these funds that would positively benefit all of our branches, " said public services manager Julie Spurrell.
Around the Region - Regional Library News (Alberni Valley Times, Port Alberni BC, 10/24/2003)
The Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) will provide $3,000 for the operation of the Bamfield Book Depository. The Port Alberni Branch of the VIRL will receive a $6,000 rebate due to an overpayment of taxes in fiscal year 2003. The payment will be credited towards next year's tax bill.
$20K booked for library study (The Leader, Surrey BC, 11/5/2003)
The City of White Rock will spend $20,000 to study options for the library ( a branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library system )in the wake of the new branch of the Surrey Public Library opening last month just a few blocks away. White Rock politicians want to make sure they are still getting value for their money. Since the new Surrey Semiahmoo branch debuted in Sept., both circulation and visitor numbers have dropped at the White Rock branch. White Rock staff feel the numbers will level off once the novelty of the new Surrey outlet has worn off. Historically, White Rock was paid a large subsidy because so many of its patrons came from over the Surrey boundary to use the library.
Library faces legal bill in the thousands (Times-Colonist, Victoria BC, 11/8/2003)
The Greater Victoria Public Library's (GVPL) operating budget is going to take an unbudgeted $10,000 to $20,000 hit as a result of a lawsuit brought against the library system by municipalities within its own area of service. The suit is being brought against the GVPL by the Western Communities of Colwood, Langford, Metchosin and the Highlands, who claim that $300,000 paid to the GVPL's central branch by the community of View Royal (to provide library service) should have gone to the Western Communities' local branch, where a majority of View Royal residents go to use the library. "Unfortunately, the library has no choice, " said GVPL treasurer Glynn Jones. "If it's being sued, it has to defend itself."
Donations & Fundraising
Downtown street blitz nets $14,000 for literacy (Times-Colonist, Victoria BC, 9/26/2003)
Victoria's first involvement in the Raise-a-Reader Day program raised $14,000 during a two hour blitz in which media and sports personalities stalked downtown streets for two hours hawking newspapers. The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) is one of the institutions that will benefit from the fund-raiser. The GVPL will also be a recipient of some of the $116,000 raised by the Times-Colonist's annual book drive.
Library briefs: literacy programs available (Chetwynd Echo, Chetwynd BC, 9/30/2003)
The Chetwynd Public Library will be able to offer a Family Literacy program in the fall thanks to a donation of $1,000 from Literacy BC's Raise-a-Reader fund. Originally the National Literacy Secretariat had denied funding for the library's proposal. Applications for other funding options, from ABC Canada and Coca-Cola, are also being submitted.
Raise-a-Reader program teaches toddlers the joy of reading and helps adults turn over a new page (The Vancouver Sun, Vancouver BC, 9/30/2003)
Letter from Deb Thomas, chief librarian at the Nelson Municipal Library, thanking the Vancouver Sun for the $2,000 the library received as part of the Raise-a-Reader program. The money will be used to ensure the Mother Goose Program is available next spring, and to buy books and furnishings for the children's storytime area.
Many helpers supported book sale's success (Undercurrent, Bowen Island BC, 8/29/2003)
The recent Friends of the Bowen Island Public Library book sale grossed a record $5,700. Friends chair Lois Myers-Carter thanks the many volunteers who lent their time to the success of the sale.
Dayson lays foundation for cultural understanding (Richmond News, Richmond BC, 9/3/2003)
Real estate developer Ben Dayson has donated $50,000 and over 200 books from his personal Judaica collection to the Richmond Public Library. Dayson hopes the collection will promote a greater understanding of the contributions made by the Jewish community. In honour of Dayson, the library has dedicated a reading room, the "Ester and Ben Dayson Judaica Collection", that will house the collection.
Last letter of alphabet foils chance for champs (Coast Reporter, Sechelt BC, 9/13/2003)
Unable to play a 10-point letter'"z' as time expired, the past champions of the Sechelt Public Library's Scrabble for Literacy Tournament were denied a third straight win. The day-long tournament attracted 40 participants and raised $1,000 for literacy materials at the library and Capilano College.
Photo with caption: Bucks for Books (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam BC, 9/20/2003)
Coquitlam Public Library chair Colleen Talbot and library director Karen Harrison accept an Royal Bank of Canada Foundation donation of $5,000 from Jack Trumley, a manager at RBC's, Como Lake Village Branch. The donation will help the library develop its Asian language collection.
Spruce Kings team up with library for literacy (Prince George This Week, Prince George BC, 9/21/2003)
The BC Hockey League's Prince George Spruce Kings and the Prince George Public Library are gearing up for the 6th Annual Skate for Literacy on Oct. 5, where residents can strap on skates and do a few laps around the rink with team members for a good cause. "This is a great fundraising opportunity for the library," says team marketing coordinator Bill Ollinger. "We hope this will be a bigger and brighter Skate for Literacy than ever before." Funds raised will go toward the general purchase of books and other library materials.
Photo with caption (Cranbrook Daily Townsman, Cranbrook BC, 10/6/2003)
As part of BC Hydro's Outreach Program, public affairs manager Karen Leach presents a cheque for $2,500 to Cranbrook Mayor Ross Priest and Area C director Mike Kartasheff. The donation will go the Cranbrook Public Library for the purchase of books and videos. The presentation was made at this week's UBCM convention.
Success on the links (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam BC, 10/8/2003)
The Port Moody Public Library's third Links for Literacy golf tournament, raffle, auction and banquet raised over $19,500, money that will be used to enhance the library's large print, audiobook and multilingual materials.
$15,000 grant earmarked for local literacy program (Oliver Chronicle, Oliver BC, 10/8/2003)
As part of $700,000 in grants from the Ministry of Advanced Education, the South Okanagan branches of the Okanagan Regional Library will be able supplement their literacy materials to the tune of $15,000. Says Penticton-Okanagan Valley MLA Bill Barisoff, "The library provides a very important service to youth and adults alike, and I'm pleased our government is supporting them. Literacy is one of the most important skills a person can have."
Books for the blind (Nanaimo Daily News, Nanaimo BC, 10/14/2003)
The Friends of the Library Society have used a $2,000 donation from the Altrusa Club of Nanaimo to purchase 55 books on tape for use throughout the Vancouver Island Regional Library system. Twenty-five of the tapes are commercially available titles that can be borrowed by any library user, while the remainder are specifically for those patrons with a sight impairment or who have difficulty reading print formats.
West Vancouver Memorial Library Donor Recognition (North Shore News, North Vancouver BC, 10/22/2003)
At a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 17, donors, supporters and corporate sponsors of the West Vancouver Memorial Library and its foundation were recognized with the unveiling of glass donor recognition boards. The permanent boards were designed by architect Michael Barnes. Each year the foundation raises about $100,000 for the library, money used to purchase everything from photocopiers to books on tape.
Happy reading (The Whistler Question, Whistler BC, 10/23/2003)
Letter from Jane Reid, organizer of the Whistler Used Book Sale, reporting that the recent sale took in over $3,000, one third of which went to the Whistler Public Library for collection enhancement.
Fundraising at the library (The Gazette, Grand Forks BC, 11/5/2003)
The Grand Forks & District Public Library has launched an Adopt-A-Magazine fundraiser. Come in and see what magazines are available for adoption or bring in a suggestion for a new magazine you might want to sponsor. The program is very important to the library in these times of budget constraints.
Legion helps library learn from the past (The Now, Surrey BC, 11/8/2003)
The Pacific Command of the Royal Canadian Legion Foundation has donated $2,000 to the new Semiahmoo branch of the Surrey Public Library. The donation is to be used to purchase books and other materials on the war years and Canadian history. The Legion also donated a number of copies of five other books to be housed in each of Surrey's eight branches.
Hospice collection to be housed at local public library (Creston Valley Advance, Creston BC, 11/13/2003)
The Creston Valley Hospice Society has announced that its many books and tapes dealing with grief and loss of a loved one will now be available for loan at the Creston Public Library.
Buildings
Saanich has yet to make a decision on proposed library relocation (Saanich News, Victoria BC, 9/3/2003)
Before giving an official endorsement, the municipality of Saanich will fully explore the matter of the Central Branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library moving into the newly vacant Bay Building. Saanich would pick up 20 percent of the estimated $20 million relocation cost, although firm estimates have not been submitted.
Esquimalt to gauge opinion on library at Bay (Times-Colonist, Victoria BC, 9/5/2003)
Before backing the proposed move of the Greater Victoria Public Library's Central Branch, Esquimalt council wants the public to have its say during the Sept. 15 council meeting. Esquimalt only has a 4.4 per cent share in the Central Branch, but its approval is required for any relocation.
Lowe dismisses Langford's library concerns (Victoria News, Victoria BC, 9/10/2003)
Langford Mayor Stew Young is openly criticizing Victoria Mayor Alan Lowe and the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL), claiming that they are preparing to relocate the Central Branch without considering the outlying municipalities. Young wants the relocation talks on hold until a lawsuit regarding $300,000 paid to the Central Branch of the GVPL by the town of View Royal is settled. Langford is also upset that a study on the move commissioned by the GVPL was not released to member councils until the day before the release to media. Adding to the tension was the dropping of Langford Coun. Lillian Szpak from a GVPL advisory committee for, as GVPL chair John Barton stated in an e-mail to Szpak, her "public undermining of positions you have previously supported." Mayor Lowe points out that Langford needs to get rid of this mentality of the "the core against the Western Communities" and points out that their new local branch is the result of the many advantages of being part of the GVPL system. Lowe adds that the City of Victoria would consider contributing to any major project proposed by the Western Communities.
Residents will have say on library (Victoria News, Victoria BC, 9/17/2003)
The City of Victoria is ready and willing to spend $12 million for the relocation of its Central Branch library, but it cannot spend a dime without a go-ahead from the public, either by counter-petition or referendum. Mayor Alan Lowe says he is currently more interested in building support than thinking about the mechanism for approval, but he does note that the counter-petition is quicker and may be more practical in terms of time constraints. Effective in January, under the new Community Charter, the threshold for defeat of the petition will be a 10 per cent "no" vote.
Library may lose millions in sale of branch (Times-Colonist, Victoria BC, 10/8/2003)
Because of a clause in the original purchase deal of the Central Branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL), the library could be forced to sell the property for far less than its $6 million assessed value if they chose to relocate the branch. When GVPL bought the previously rented building from its owner, BC Building Corp. (BCBC) in 1996, the library had not been paying its $700,000 annual rent since 1992 (when the library exercised its option to buy). It saved the library a considerable amount, but in return the library had to give BCBC first right of refusal for any future sale, plus base the sale price on an amount with depreciation factored into, ensuring that the library could not take advantage of increased property values.
Oak Bay offers its cautious support for library negotiations (Oak Bay News, Victoria BC, 10/8/2003)
While Oak Bay council has not given an official endorsement of the plan to relocate the Central Branch of the Greater Victoria Public Library, it did agree that the negotiations should go forward. Oak Bay has a 4.4 per cent stake in the Central Branch. Oak Bay Mayor Christopher Casuton says he will need to see more hard figures before any kind of agreement can be reached, such as how revenue from parking and any commercial leases in the new building would be divided up.
Library narrows site review to five (The Morning Star, Vernon BC, 10/29/2003)
Of the 26 sites initially reviewed for the new Vernon branch of the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL), the selection has been narrowed down to five or six, according to ORL board chair Carol Williams. And Williams wants to stress that some of the options include a location not in the downtown core, the location of the current branch. "Some of us would assume that downtown is the best place, but in Salmon Arm the library is in the biggest shopping mall," says Williams. "It has great circulation on the middle of a commercial area." Williams adds it is not yet known when a final decision will be made.
Petition pushes downtown branch (The Morning Star, Vernon BC, 11/9/2003)
Some Greater Vernon residents are putting pen to paper in support of a new library branch staying downtown. The Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) wants to build a 30,000 sq. ft. facility by late 2005. Currently, five or six sites are being looked at, but those who have launched and signed the petition, plus the Downtown Vernon Association, want the ORL to know they see the library as a critical part of a vibrant downtown. ORL board chair Carol Williams welcomes the work being done by the petitioners, but no single site could be ruled in or out at this point in the process.
Council ready for library fight (The Morning Star, Vernon BC, 11/12/2003)
Vernon city council has unanimously endorsed the idea that the location for the new Vernon Branch of the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) should remain downtown, and made clear that if the ORL went against their wishes they would, according to Vernon Mayor Sean Harvey, "be in for a rough ride." Harvey has concerns that the departure of the library would be a considerable blow to the downtown at a time the city has been actively supporting the area. ORL board chair Carol Williams says they will take council's suggestion into consideration, but she adds that they have seen no proposals from the city as of yet. Harvey responded that if the ORL was saying it was only interested in the downtown if city-owned land was available, he considered that "blackmail." The ORL had thought to make a decision by Nov., but growing public interest in the project will likely delay any announcement.
New South Surrey Facility Goes Green (The Leader, Surrey BC, 9/10/2003)
South Surrey's new Semiahmoo branch, due to open later this month, is the first "green building" built by the city and the first "green library" in the province. Features of the library, which shares space in the building with the Surrey RCMP District Office, designed to ensure a "sustainable site", include actual construction methods, proximity to mass transit, temperature control and microclimate effect, lighting designed to limit spillover to the environment and landscaping that reduces water use. The building can now be considered for certification under the U.S. Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Rating System.
Tome Time (The Peace Arch News, White Rock BC, 9/17/2003)
Photo with caption - Surrey Mayor Doug McCallum has plenty of help cutting the ribbon at the grand opening of the new Semiahmoo branch of the Surrey Public Library system. The 22,000 sq. ft. building, which also houses Surrey RCMP, was designed by Darrel J. Epp Architect Ltd. and reflects the latest in environmental design. This is the ninth branch in the Surrey library system.
Expansion for Comox Library (Comox Valley Echo, Courtenay BC, 8/29/2003)
The Comox Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library will more than double in size by 2005, when it expands into space vacated by the neighbouring health unit. The town has $200,000 budgeted for the expansion. A call for proposals from architectural firms will go out in Sept.
Library options report in board hands by October 9 (Gulf Islands Driftwood, Salt Spring Island BC, 9/17/2003)
The Salt Spring Island Public Library's long-term planning committee is nearing the end of its job after 30 months. Committee chair Lyda Smith has reported that the final report should be ready for the Oct. 9 library board meeting, followed by meetings and a public survey. The committee was tasked with looking at options for the current aged and cramped library building, including moving to new locations or rebuilding on the same site. By the next AGM in March, details about the chosen option should be ready for presentation to the membership.
Library board decides to stay separate from new school (The Valley Sentinel, Valemount BC, 9/17/2003)
The Valemount Public Library board has unanimously voted to keep the library in its current location after a survey showed residents were only 17.25 per cent in favour of moving the library to a shared facility with the new school.
Library, museum to part company (The Whistler Question, Whistler BC, 9/18/2003)
Whistler council has closed the door on the idea of a new shared home for the Whistler Public Library and the museum/archives, but will continue with plans for separate new homes for both. The decision was made in the wake of the abandonment of a Capital Campaign to raise $5 million that had only realized $600,000 in donations. Whistler's five-year financial plan, adopted last year, now has over $10 million budgeted for the two projects. Whistler Public Library board chair Anne Fenwick commented on the move, "I'm very pleased that Council has made the decision to move forward with the library building." The library and museum/archives have been housed in pre-fabricated structures since 1994. Council said they are well aware of the urgency of getting a new library up and running.
Britannia pushing library expansion plan (Vancouver Courier, Vancouver BC, 9/24/2003)
A plan is afoot to double the size of the Britannia Branch of the Vancouver Public Library and get the community a new elementary school. The concept would have the current undersized library move into the 20,000 sq. ft. school and a new school built with money from a number of sources. But permission to build a new school has to be granted by the province, and some feel that the community simply does not meet the strict criteria set out for new school construction. An agreement between the various groups involved will have to be made quickly, since the school board is already moving ahead with its plans to simply renovate the current school.
Maple School could house new Island regional library branch (Campbell River Mirror, Campbell River BC, 10/3/2003)
The Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) is interested in opening a new branch between Courtenay and Campbell River, and a closed school might be a good fit. The regional district is interested in buying Maple School to use as a community centre, and since the facility already has a library built into it, the inclusion of a VIRL branch is certainly a possibility. The school district has accepted a regional district offer on the property subject to a public referendum and the regional district assessing the cost of renovation.
New library slated for Mission (The Daily Courier, Kelowna BC, 10/7/2003)
A new population formula used by the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) means that Okanagan Mission will get a new library. But because the lease on the library's current location does not expire for two or three years, residents may have to wait to see their cramped 2,000 sq. ft. facility bumped up to a proper 7,500 sq. ft. Rapid population growth in the area will also mean the library's hours will be expanded by five hours a week. ORL executive director Lesley Dieno says the new Mission Sports Complex is one possible location, adding that ORL likes to have branches open in present high-traffic areas.
Taylor council approves plan for clinic, library (Alaska Highway News, Fort St. John BC, 10/8/2003)
A site plan for a new medical facility/library has been approved by the District of Taylor council. Duke Energy has provided the district two buildings for the development of the complex.
Referendum wording approved (The Powell River Peak, Powell River BC, 10/8/2003)
Now that the wording for the Nov. 15 referendum has been approved, it's up to the citizens to decide on whether to borrow $4.5 million to pay for renovations to the recreational complex and the addition of a 11,000 sq. ft. library. One municipal councillor voted against the wording, saying that he feels strongly that the issues of the rec centre and the library should have been separate questions. The total cost of the two projects runs an estimated $6.5 million (the addition $2 million coming from coming from other sources), with the library's cost being $1,750,000. A referendum information campaign, including drawings of the proposed library, was launched on Oct. 3.
Library looks for more space (News Leader, Burnaby BC, 10/15/2003)
The New Westminster Public Library is in need of a bigger space, and it and the city are looking at some innovative ways to get it. City librarian Ron Clancy says that the city is sympathetic to the needs of the over-stuffed facility, but it is simply not in a financial position to move a new library to the top of its capital program priority list. But city hall has put out a call for expressions of interest from the private sector for the development of a new library building, possibly as part of a larger project. The concept has generated "quite a lot of interest", with the planning department having to print more of the original 15 packages outlining the city's needs. A consultant's study done two-and-a-half years ago determined that a library of 65,000 sq. ft. (the current space is 42,000) would service the area until the year 2020.
Library briefs: library face-lift (Chetwynd Echo, Chetwynd BC, 10/21/2003)
Eight young people have been hired by the Skills Link Project to paint a number of buildings in town, including the public library. The library's mural has also been taken down for a "face-lift" and should be back in place by next spring.
New city library set for 2005 (North Shore News, North Vancouver BC, 11/9/2003)
By early 2005, North Vancouver residents will see the beginning of construction on a new civic complex that will include a 35,000 sq. ft. library. The 380,000 sq. ft. project will also include residential housing and a public day care, and will showcase green building techniques. The design, regulatory and business process phases will each take nine or 10 months to complete.
Cash for work at Chimo, Rocky Point & Fox (Tri-City News, Port Coquitlam BC, 11/12/2003)
Port Coquitlam's Terry Fox Library, a branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library, has received a grant of $49,000 from the provincial and federal governments as part of $4.6 million in infrastructure grants to be used for facility improvements. The money will be used to help pay for $74,000 in energy efficiency upgrades to the library.
Children's Corner
Various Summer Reading Club program numbers (, 12:00:00 AM)
- Mission branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library: over 100 of the children who signed up received medals.
- Burnaby Public Library: over 7,000 kids enrolled; more than 3,500 completed goal of 15 minutes of reading a day for 50 days; over 1,000 attended awards ceremony.
- South Cowichan branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library: 200 children registered; over 30 awarded medals.
- Kelowna branch of Okanagan Regional Library: 977 children registered.
- Port Moody Public Library: over 240 readers awarded medals at ceremony.
- Chetwynd Public Library: participants in "Survivor" game read a total of 1,633 hours.
- New Westminster Public Library: a record-breaking 1,255 children joined program.
- Gibsons and District Public Library: 60 children and parents attend wrap-up party. Club has record attendance and registration.
- Oliver branch of the Okanagan Regional Library: over 200 kids registered.
- Summerland branch of the Okanagan Regional Library: 143 children registered; 65 received medals.
- Campbell River branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library: 247 kids sign up.
- Richmond Public Library: more than 4,000 kids registered; over 500 receive medals.
- Comox branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library: about 500 children participated.
Mother Goose gives moms a reading break (The Vancouver Sun, Vancouver BC, 9/23/2003)
The Vancouver Public Library's (VPL) Infant Mother Goose program is one of four literacy programs the library offers to help parents and children develop early literacy skills and a love of books. Jane Cobb, coordinator for VPL's Mother Goose Program, has trained numerous instructors in the program's techniques. Over 1,000 instructors have been trained in the program in the province. Mother Goose was founded in Toronto in 1984 as a way to reach high-risk families to whom literacy would otherwise fall through the cracks.
Space available in library program (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam BC, 10/1/2003)
The Coquitlam Public Library's Reading Buddies program is looking for children between Grade 1 and 4 who would like to improve their reading skills, and teens volunteer tutors who would like to help and encourage younger kids to read. Registration for the fall sessions are now being taken, but space is limited.
On your mark, get set, write (The Whistler Question, Whistler BC, 10/9/2003)
Kids ages 12 to 18 are encouraged to take part in the Whistler Public Library's fourth annual Young Adult Writing Contest. Participants can submit either poems or short stories, with prizes awarded for both formats and in various age groups. Submission deadline is Oct. 31. Winners will receive cash prizes and have their works posted on the library website.
Books and fire trucks at library (Abbotsford Times, Abbotsford BC, 10/10/2003)
The Clearbrook branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library was packed with kids on Oct. 4 to witness the unveiling of a miniature fire truck that will be permanently parked in the children's section. The mini-vehicle will be the centrepiece of the new Safety Library. Abbotsford McDonald's donated the funds to build the truck which also doubles as a display case for safety-related books. The project was a partnership between the library, McDonald's and the Abbotsford Fire and Rescue Service.
Volunteers fan the flames of reading in kids (Mission Times, Abbotsford BC, 10/17/2003)
The Reading Buddies Program, run through the Mission Literacy Association and the Mission branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library, is going strong in its third year, but it needs some more volunteer support. Currently 32 matched pairs of youngsters and volunteer tutors are exploring the world of books, but there are more than 30 kids who are waiting to find their reading buddy. Volunteers need only commit for one hour a week, although more is an option. Children in the program range from between five and 10 years of age.
Poetry workshops for teenagers (The Delta Optimist, Delta BC, 10/29/2003)
The South Delta branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library is offering a series of poetry workshops for teens ages 13 to 18. The workshops will be led by published local poet Tana Runyan, who has a masters of fine arts degree in creative writing.
Families, Friends - Children's book illustrator visits Kamloops for book week (The Daily News, Kamloops BC, 10/31/2003)
To help mark Canadian Children's Book Week (CCBW), children's book illustrator Kasia Charko will be touring Interior libraries this week. Charko's latest published work is Arizona Charlie and the Klondike Kid, written by Julie Lawson. CCBW began in 1977 and has been a country-wide celebration of children's literature and the value of early literacy observed over the first week of November each year.
Pyjama Party (The Morning Star, Vernon BC, 10/31/2003)
Photo with caption: Okanagan Regional Library chair Carol Williams and children's librarian Monica Gaucher don pyjamas and read to kids at the Vernon Library. Williams was fulfilling the terms of a silent auction bid made at the second annual Birthday Bash of the Vernon Performing Arts Centre.
Author told tales of her childhood in China (Alberni Valley Times, Port Alberni BC, 11/18/2003)
The Port Alberni branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library recently hosted a visit from Canadian author Ting-xing Ye, who told stories of her life growing up in China just after the Cultural Revolution, where she was orphaned at the age of 13 and spent six years in a prison camp. Library manager Pamela Medland thought that the stories might be hard for children to relate to, but the tales really seemed to grab the attention of kids. Ting-xing's visit was part of a Canadian Children's Book Week tour.
Around the Province
Gearing up for Literacy Day (The Whistler Question, Whistler BC, 9/4/2003)
To mark International Literacy Day (Sept. 8), the Whistler Public Library will be putting together a display of literacy materials as well as information on the various children's programs the library offers. The library also has information and programs for adults, in keeping with its presence as a life-long learning centre.
Programs support literacy for all ages (Trail Daily Times, Trail BC, 9/5/2003)
The Trail and District Public Library and the Trail Adult and Family Literacy programs will mark International Literacy Day by sponsoring a number of events over the next year that will encourage Trail to become the "Home of Reading Champions."
Literacy Walk set for Saturday (The Williams Lake Tribune, Williams Lake BC, 9/18/2003)
As part of September's Literacy Matters Month festivities, the annual Literacy Walk will take place on Sept. 20 beginning at the Cariboo Regional District Library. Following the walk there will be a lunch provided (by the Rotary Club), speeches regarding literacy, activity booths and book draw giveaways.
Sharing a passion for children's literacy - A librarian talks about his love of reading (The Vancouver Sun, Vancouver BC, 9/24/2003)
Article by Sun columnist Pete McMartin in which he discusses literacy with Vancouver Public Library (VPL) director Paul Whitney. Whitney counters the arguments of naysayers who speak of the decline and death of the printed word by pointing out that almost 30 per cent of VPL's loaned items were children's books and that more children than ever are attending Summer Reading programs. "Summer used to be pretty dead in libraries," he said, "but now they are our busiest months." But Whitney also spoke of the value of books beyond statistics. "To read is to engage in an experience that is important to itself, to be transported to another place, to escape, to slow down, to experience silence. And that is becoming increasingly difficult."
Library hires new boss (The Prince George Citizen, Prince George BC, 10/22/2003)
Board chair of the Prince George Public Library, Dave Sherwood, has announced that Allan Wilson has been hired as the new chief librarian for the Prince George Public Library. Wilson comes from Prince Rupert, where he has been chief librarian since 1998. While there, Wilson won numerous awards for the library, including one for his website www.bookboat.com, a 2002 BC Library Association Merit Award and 2001 and 2002 Best Practices honours. Wilson is a native of St. Catherines, Ont., and has worked in various libraries in Canada and abroad, including the Lenin Library in Moscow. "I'm very excited by this opportunity to work with the team at the Prince George Public Library, which has an excellent reputation in the library community in BC," Wilson said. Wilson will begin his duties in January.
Librarian starts new chapter (Royal City Record, New Westminster BC, 10/29/2003)
Even though New Westminster Public Library's (NWPL) chief librarian Ron Clancy is retiring, books will remain an important part of his life. Clancy began his library career in high school, and he has been at the NWPL for the last 12 years where he has overseen many changes in the way libraries provide service, most notably in the technology area. But it's helping people that Clancy considers his greatest achievement. "That we're providing a service that's important and so useful to the community is what's kept me in my career," he says. Clancy plans to spend his newly acquired free time travelling and in his beloved garden, but he also hopes to catch up on a lot of reading he's never had time for in the past.
Head librarian is recognized for her three decades at the Ladner Library (The Delta Optimist, Delta BC, 11/1/2003)
The Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL) has honoured Cecelia Duncan, librarian at its Ladner branch, for 30 years of service in the library system. Coun. Krista Engelland, a FVRL director, remembers when Duncan was her school librarian, and what an open and friendly atmosphere she created there. Engelland and Duncan worked further together once Duncan began at the Ladner Library, including a twenty-month expansion of the library a few years ago.
New West names chief librarian (News Leader, Burnaby BC, 11/12/2003)
The New Westminster Public Library board has announced that Julie Spurrell has been selected to replace retiring chief librarian Ron Clancy. Spurell has a wide experience in BC public libraries, including a decade as director of the Trail and District Public Library, and senior positions in the Fraser Valley and Okanagan library systems. Spurell has also served as president of the BC Library Association and the Association of BC Public Library Directors. She will begin her new duties on Jan. 5, 2004.
Library takes Italian twist for September (Trail Daily Times, Trail BC, 9/8/2003)
The Trail and District Library is celebrating the heritage and culture of the city's many Italian residents by declaring Sept. Italian month. Special children's storytimes will be offered (including, of course, the famous story of the witch Strega Nona), Italian cookbooks, guidebooks and Italian-language titles will be featured at the library, and Friends group leader (and a Trail Italian) Zerma Alton will be honoured at the Friends upcoming AGM.
Library briefs: vandalism strikes again! (Chetwynd Echo, Chetwynd BC, 9/9/2003)
For the second time in a few months vandals have struck at the Chetwynd Public Library. In August some hanging flower baskets were knocked down and smashed and recently a hand-painted sign acknowledging the gardening work done by a volunteer was taken.
Library votes yes (The Powell River Peak, Powell River BC, 9/10/2003)
On Sept. 4 the Powell River Public Library Association voted to become a municipal library, a representative stating, "I feel that the vote reflected that members believe it is time for a change in the governance structure, as the public library association type is out-dated." The library board will send a letter to the municipality requesting the change and the municipality will introduce a bylaw to assume library service.
Remembering Carol Shields (Nelson Daily News, Nelson BC, 9/12/2003)
Nelson and area writers and other artists will pay tribute to Carol Shields on Sept. 15 at the Nelson Municipal Library. The evening of readings and reminiscences will commemorate the passing of one of Canada's most important literary talents. Shields visited Nelson in the early nineties for a reading and workshop for local writers.
Area librarians near retirement (Courtenay Comox Valley Record, Courtenay BC, 9/19/2003)
Courtenay Coun. and Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) board vice-chair Noor Ahmed is in the process of taking a presentation about the library system on the road to local city councils and service clubs, and one of his messages is that this is a perfect time to consider a job as a librarian. Ahmed says that in the next five years the majority of librarians in the region will be reaching retirement age and there is a gap there that is going to need to be filled. Ahmed's presentation also deals extensively with how the funding for the library breaks down and how its budget is spent. He hopes that some of these discussions will result in more funds coming the library's way. "Unfortunately the more people that use (the library) the more expensive it is to run," he said. "But at the end of the day it's worth it."
Book club forms (Chilliwack Times, Chilliwack BC, 9/26/2003)
Beginning Oct. 15, the Chilliwack branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library will kick off its first monthly book club meeting. Public service librarian Jennifer Douglas says the interest has been enormous and only worries that they may have too many book-lovers showing up. Douglas has belonged to a book club for over 10 years and thought the time was right to get a program started at the library.
Slim thief slips through book chute (Courtenay Comox Valley Record, Courtenay BC, 10/3/2003)
A slim thief managed to slip through the 18-inch square book return chute in the Cumberland branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library on Sept. 29 and made off with a handful of change. The chute was damaged during the break-in.
Book with devilish slant upsets mom and daughter (The Daily News, Kamloops BC, 10/4/2003)
A children's book entitled "Halloween ABC" has been temporarily removed from the shelves at the Kamloops branch of the Thompson-Nicola Regional Library System after a complaint about it containing "disturbing" words. The complaint was registered by a patron who took the book out for her child and found the text under the heading "D for Demon" to be objectionable. Director of libraries Kevin Kierans confirms the complaint has been received and that the review process will take about one week, during which time information about the history of the four copies of the book available in the system will be investigated. To date no written complaints have been registered about the books, which have been circulated a total of about 80 times. Kierans stresses that it is up to parents to make judgments about the suitability of books they select for their children, and that the library must weigh concerns against the library's obligation to avoid censorship and protect intellectual freedom.
Director targets Internet use (The Morning Star, Vernon BC, 10/10/2003)
Coldstream director Doug Dirk told the North Okanagan Regional District board that he is concerned about Internet pornography being accessed on computers at branches of the Okanagan Regional Library (ORL). "I'm uncomfortable as a taxpayer that I'm funding access to porn," Dirk said. But Lesley Dieno, executive director of the ORL, says that there have only been two porn-related complaints within the entire system over the last year. "We do teach children and parents to be safe on the Internet and we get few complaints," said Dieno. And she adds that filtering software to block pornography is still too rudimentary, blocking access to too many legitimate sites. Even the nature of what is pornographic becomes an issue. "It could be the swimsuit issue of Sports Illustrated, but some people consider it porn," she said. Dirk hopes that ORL will monitor the filter technology and apply it when a workable solution is available.
Libraries to open Sundays for 12-week trial period beginning this weekend (The Delta Optimist, Delta BC, 10/15/2003)
In response to public demand, the three Delta branches of the Fraser Valley Regional Library will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays for a 12-week trial period. The move to open on Sundays is designed to stop the flow of library users to other municipalities that do offer Sunday library hours. A recent survey showed that 41 per cent of those polled were in favour of extended operating hours. The trial period will cost just under $20,000, money taken from Delta's contingency fund. Further discussion regarding Sunday operating will be held at an upcoming Delta business plan workshop.
Just one Toronto writer on list for G-G book awards (The Vancouver Sun, Vancouver BC, 10/21/2003)
North Vancouver District Public Library librarian Sarah Ellis has been nominated for a Governor-General's Literacy Award for her juvenile fiction book The Several Lives of Orphan Jack. Ellis has previously won a G-G Award in 1991 for her book Pick-Up Sticks.
Terry Fox Library celebrates 20th anniversary Saturday (Coquitlam Now, Coquitlam BC, 10/22/2003)
It has been over 20 years since the City of Port Coquitlam passed a referendum to build the current 15,000 sq. ft. library facility, and it was 20 years ago this month that the new Terry Fox Library branch of the Fraser Valley Regional Library was opened for business. The result of a massive community fundraising campaign, the library remains a central gathering place in the community. Part of the library's unique appeal is the legacy of its namesake Terry Fox, who died in 1981 at the age of 22. Library manager Ada Con says that Fox's spirit is alive and well at the library. "We work to empower our public. Terry Fox's drive and spirit, that's basically the empowerment that we want to give to our public," Con says. The library is also home to the official Terry Fox memorabilia collection, which Con says attracts many people from all over Canada. Unfortunately the library does not have room to display the more than 500-piece collection, so some of it resides at the BC Sports Hall of Fame. A birthday bash for the library is set for Oct. 25, a day that will be filled with reading, writing, art and music.
Library seizing a better future (Trail Daily Times, Trail BC, 10/27/2003)
The Trail and District Public Library is proud to present its 2003 - 2005 strategic plan, which will help meet the library's mandate through a threefold mission to increase use, increase awareness and increase support for the library. Four identified priorities include the library's image, its financial plan, services to the public and support of library staff and board members. A survey has also been developed to gauge the community's needs.
Library busier than ever (The Whistler Question, Whistler BC, 10/30/2003)
The results of the annual Typical Week Survey of library activity has shown the Whistler Public Library to be busier than ever. The library showed increases in traffic, circulation and new users registered than ranged from 19 to 57 per cent over the 2002 figures. Thanks to the library trustees and Rotary members who helped with the tallying last week.
Calverley collection in new home (Peace River Block Daily News, Dawson Creek BC, 11/3/2003)
The famed Calverley Collection, made up of 18 volumes of local history painstakingly compiled by Dorthea Calverley over many years, has been made far more accessible to the public now that it has been moved from a cramped upstairs room (that required librarian supervision to view) to a spot on the library's main floor. The collection includes thousands of pages of interviews and newspaper clippings plus scores of audio tapes. Head librarian Jenny Snyder says people come from all over the province and even further to pour through the detailed archive of the area.
A lasting tribute to Freda (Terrace Standard, Terrace BC, 11/5/2003)
A permanent display has been set up in the Terrace Public Library as a tribute to the late Freda Diesling, an important carver and teacher who led a cultural renaissance in West Coast art right up to her death last year at age 72. Diesling's sister and a friend thought the library would be a visible place for the display and provided some materials to use in the tribute.
Library, NEAT teaming up for a 'green Christmas' (Alaska Highway News, Fort St. John BC, 11/6/2003)
The Northern Environmental Action Team (NEAT) and the Fort St. John Public Library are once again teaming up to offer a Green Christmas session on Nov. 20 to help people make environmentally aware choices this holiday season. The session will include tips on things like re-using wrapping paper, sending e-mail greetings instead of paper cards, having "re-gifting" parties, and serving Brazil nuts and cashews as a way to help save rain forests
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