Millennium Library Park in downtown Winnipeg (STAN MILOSEVIC / CHRISD.CA FILE)
Expanded hours, more online resources and additional space for studying are some of the enhancements being recommended to Winnipeg’s libraries.
The city has launched a new five-year strategic plan to bring local libraries into the future.
“Libraries are an important hub of information-sharing and community-building in Winnipeg,” said Mayor Brian Bowman. “More than 5,000 Winnipeggers shared their voices and ideas with the City of Winnipeg, and the new five-year strategy takes their ideas and turns them into a plan for and by the community.”
Winnipeggers provided input through community consultations with staff and stakeholders to come up with some of the goals the city will strive over by 2020.
Rick Walker, manager of library services, says the input will be taken into consideration to ensure libraries remain vital hubs in communities.
Goals mapped out to ensure libraries remain dynamic and vital for all users include:
- Supporting early literacy skills in young children through increased investment in materials, services and programs for families, childcare providers and educators
- Providing excellent customer service
- Investing in more programs that advance digital literacy
- Ensuring all library branches are welcoming and accessible destinations
- Selecting material that reflects the diverse needs of the community
- Developing stronger relationships with Indigenous peoples and newcomers
- Providing opportunities for older adults to meet, learn and contribute
- Expanding the impact of the library beyond its physical branches through community outreach and digital services
- Extending libraries’ operating hours for enhanced convenience and accessibility.
