The NEMI Public Library Board had a full agenda on June 14, its last meeting until September. Head Librarian Jake Marion’s monthly report contained many items for consideration. For example, board members were pleased to learn that there has been a 20 percent increase in library usage each month over last year’s numbers.
The public will benefit by new hours of operation for the coming summer. Library services are to be extended by 16 hours weekly according to the proposed summer schedule: Monday to Thursday, 10 am to 8 pm, Friday from 12 noon to 8 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm.
Seven of Little Current’s newly settled refugees are involved in an ESL program given at the library daily, Monday to Friday from 6 until 8 pm. Volunteers Donna and Gary Wolfe are the coordinators of this English program and conducted the teacher training required. Curriculum developed at Cambridge University in the UK is being used.
“I want to express my appreciation to the library for all the assistance and support we have been given,” Donna said. “Our special thanks to Jake who has made sure staff was there to open the library. Everyone involved, the 12 to 13 generous volunteer teachers, hope our participants become life long learners after being welcomed, and experiencing the services of our local library.”
Coming soon is the “biggest book sale ever.” Board member Nina Coates is heading up this event with lots of volunteers helping out. It will take place at the rec centre on July 23 and 24. “We have hundreds of books!” Nina says. “This is an important fund raiser for the library to offset recent cutbacks to its book budget. The proceeds will be used to expand the collection.” Watch for the posters advertising this event. Nina hopes everyone will check out the huge variety of books for sale.
It was also noted that the library will soon need a new computerized operating system since the one installed in 2004 is past its due date. Mr. Marion will research comparable systems and report his recommendations to the board.
Five summer students have been hired under a special grant. More information will appear later in The Expositor. Also, inquire at the library about the Saturday 10:30 to 11:15 am children’s program. The Little Current Library is gearing up for an action-packed summer.
