By Patrick Burles - @Patrick Burles on Twitter

Province Invests in Library Access for Indigenous People Across Alberta

Sep 30, 2016 | 4:07 PM

LETHBRIDGE – Over $670,000 is going to six regional library systems and three of the large urban libraries across Alberta, to help cover non-resident fees for individuals living in Indigenous communities.

“Up until now, First Nations and Metis settlement people were not funded in the public library system in Alberta, which meant that they potentially had to pay non-resident fees as high as $60 a year for each of them,” explained Municipal Affairs Minister, Danielle Larivee, during the announcement in Standoff.

“That was a substantial barrier for a number of families in this province, and actually it was just wrong that that happened,” Larivee continued. “It was time to move forward and ensure that all Albertans have access to the amazing services that our public libraries provide.

Larivee also went on to discuss the importance of libraries for all ages.

“Libraries today are not just about books, I mean you go into them and they’re a vibrant community hub,” Larivee stated. “There are children learning early literacy skills along with their parents, but also you see young adults and even older adults doing things such as job searches, helping with resumes.”

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The funding is part of the $36.6-million dollars that was set aside in Budget 2016 to support public library service across the province.