Dear Editor,
The Terrace Public Library Trustees would like to commend our local government for supporting the 2017 UBCM resolutions (B60 & C4) to:
Restore provincial funding from the current five per cent of total library revenue to the 1986 level of 21 per cent.
Public libraries are our communities’ only fee-free centres for lifelong learning, for knowledge exchange, for cultural exchange, and for preserving our communities’ memories and history. Regardless of whether we share these ideas through books, film, music, or through physical objects or digital platforms, public libraries ensure that everyone has access to information and culture, as well as opportunities to create and share knowledge and ideas.
Public libraries have been and continue to be, a force for equity, hope, and social and economic development across the country and here in B.C. In addition to providing strong collections and programming, libraries in this province are meeting community needs through digital creation spaces, musical instrument lending, and are leading the way on matters of justice such as the work library staff are doing towards trans inclusion and the operation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
As public library trustees, we establish the strategic direction and provide governance and oversight for the successful development and advancement of public libraries throughout B.C. To do this, we require the Province to do its part in providing adequate, predictable, and sustained funding for libraries. Public libraries make a positive difference to how British Columbians connect with, and experience, all the advantages of living in this province.
Melanie Wilke
Public Library Board Chair
Terrace, B.C.