WHEREAS public libraries enhance the lives of all British Columbians and are an essential resource in all the communities they serve, especially in times of economic hardship; AND WHEREAS reduced provincial funding impacts the ability of libraries to adequately provide services, materials, and maintain facilities: THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that UBCM request that the provincial government restore funding for BC libraries and reading centres to the levels that were achieved as part of the strategic plan prior to 2009.
Ministry of Education Funding for the public library sector is maintained at 14 million for 2011. This is 60 percent more funding than in 2001. The Province has protected core operating grants despite the global economic downturn, and is working to enhance shared infrastructure. Five years ago, the Province invested 12 million to implement the public library strategic plan Libraries Without Walls. Flowing from this plan, the Province and public libraries have launched several province-wide initiatives that have generated substantial economies of scale, enhanced the stability of libraries and improved organizational infrastructure. The powerful synergies of these partnerships and shared strategic priorities are netting tremendous benefits and laying the groundwork for future investment. As a result, libraries are in a much stronger position today, offering more services and dynamic collections than ever before. Given todays fiscal realities, the Province cannot invest in business as usual. Instead, the Province must explore all opportunities to maximize investment in strategic partnerships, leveraging existing capacities for greater shared benefits. For maximum effectiveness, therefore, provincial funding is targeted to collaborative literacy and technology equity initiatives aimed at improving services, reducing costs and increasing access.