Minister Responds to Public Library Concerns

A task force is being formed to lay the groundwork for a multi-year funding recommendation for Nova Scotia's public libraries.

Education Minister Karen Casey made the announcement today, Nov. 10, while meeting with regional library leaders in Truro.

The task force will include representatives from regional library boards, chief librarians, municipal leaders and the Department of Education. The funding recommendations will be presented to the minister of education by next spring.

"Many Nova Scotians have written to me with their concerns about funding for public libraries. I have heard these concerns and I have been working to address them," said Ms. Casey. "Consulting with library boards, municipal leaders and other funding partners will give us a better understanding of the challenges faced by public libraries and help us create a long-term, sustainable funding plan."

"Government continues to be a strong partner in the library community. Libraries play a vital role in Nova Scotia's communities by fostering and supporting literacy amongst Nova Scotians of all ages. I appreciate what our libraries mean to people from all walks of life."

The Department of Education contributed $11.7 million to public libraries in 2006-07. The Nova Scotia Provincial Library administers annual operating grants to public libraries through the nine regional library boards.

Nova Scotia's 77 public libraries and seven mobile libraries are funded by the province, municipalites and library boards.