Change constant at the Library
By Nelson Daily Editor
The only thing constant is change, a wise philosopher once said.
This is especially true at the Nelson Library. Between the on-site expansion and the referendum on expanded library service, things are really changing.
The facility may even change its name, trading “municipal” for “public” in the wake of a ‘yes’ vote in two out of three Regional District of Central Kootenay areas.
Because Area F and southern Area H voted in favour of participation with the Nelson Library, 7,400 people have gained barrier-free access to the library’s holdings, programs, databases and interlibrary loan opportunities.
Each of these areas also gains a seat on the library board, and a voice in making the library the best it can be for all residents in the service area.
The increase in population served by the Nelson Library means a greater contribution from the Province with additional support through taxation by Areas H and F, and a further increase to the amount already contributed by the City of Nelson. This means enhanced library service in a number of ways.
The acquisitions budget will increase, which means more on the shelves and online. The newly expanded board will immediately discuss an increase in hours to better serve the greater community.
A shut-in service for seniors and disabled regional residents will be developed, and a regular satellite service for the Slocan Valley, building on a 2009 pilot project, is in the works.
For residents of Area E, the annual membership fee will be $120 per year per household. This is a big jump from the 2010 subscription fee, but analysis on the part of the library board determined the new fee to be a more accurate representation of the actual cost of service.
“While we’re disappointed we won’t be able to offer full service to the entire region, we are certainly excited by the results in Areas F and H, and happy to be moving forward into a new era of library service, while celebrating a new look and space in the library itself,” said chief librarian June Stockdale.
The library expansion has been on the books since first occupying 602 Stanley St. in 1997. So far, the library has raised $81,000 towards a goal of $100,000 for its expansion to occupy two floors.
To-date the children’s area has been relocated in a bright, renovated downstairs; a new circulation counter greets patrons at the entrance, and offices have been moved to allow maximum light for the lounge and adult collections on the upper level.
The Nelson Library is brighter, its shelves well stocked with up-to-date books, magazines, audio books, MP3s and DVDs. The public computer area is always busy, study carrels and armchairs enjoyed by both studious and leisure readers, said Stockdale.
The new teen section attracts young adults with its clean lines, natural light, and great collection. Wee ones gather for story times in the cozy, child-friendly area downstairs, where materials from print to digital are available for kids from newborn to pre-teen.
There are three weeks to go in the major renovations, but planning continues for updated equipment and furnishings.
So while big changes should wrap up by mid-November, change will remain constant as the library continues to rise to the changing needs of the community it serves.
