News Release
Office of the Official Opposition

Butler says public library system underfunded

January 20, 2006

"While the national average for funding of public library systems by provincial governments is $34 per person, this province lags far behind at approximately $18 per person," said Mr. Butler. "Unless government increases its funding of the province’s public library system, the people of the province will lose out. Public libraries are used by more people for more varied tasks than is generally realized. Therefore, their importance to the people of the province cannot be overstated."

In the 2004-05 operating year, libraries in the province circulated over 1.5 million items to its users in the province. In addition, over 350,000 reference requests were processed and over 3,000 programs were offered. On computers alone, users logged over 475,000 sessions for various things such as accessing the federal employment insurance program, renewing their vehicle registrations, and completing online distance education courses.

"As more and more services are offered through libraries, ensuring problem-free access to the people of the province must be a priority of the government. There are currently 22 requests pending from towns wishing to have their own libraries. It is clear that government must provide sufficient funding to improve current services at existing locations, and also consider bringing services to more people.

"According to the Provincial Information & Library Resources Board, government’s lack of funding is making adequate service provision increasingly more difficult. The premier should know the value of access to informational materials. If he wants to foster an innovative and dynamic society in this province, government must begin addressing the problems that exist with our library services."

Media Contact:
Darrell Mercer
Director of Communications
Office of the Official Opposition
709-729-6151 or 709-687-0477