Investing in Ottawa Public Library

_ (via Ottawa Public Library) _ Ontario is supporting 10 new projects in public libraries that will improve services for Ontarians.

The Ottawa Public Library will receive $186,890 over two years to offer innovative food literacy programming.

This investment is part of the Ontario Libraries Capacity Fund, a $10 million program to help public libraries support strong, vibrant communities and better meet the changing needs of Ontarians. The fund supports new projects that can be adapted to suit the needs of other communities and have the potential for a positive impact on public libraries across the province and the people they serve.

Helping libraries provide high-quality services and information is part of the government’s plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in people’s talents and skills, making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario’s history, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan. ** QUOTES ** “Ottawa Public Library is an integral part of the fabric of our community. With support from the provincial government for this project, the library will be able to deliver even more benefits and continue to enrich people’s lives in our region.”

— Bob Chiarelli, MPP for Ottawa West-Nepean

“In today’s rapidly changing world, public libraries need to continuously innovate and find new ways to meet the needs of their communities. I’m proud we are supporting 10 new projects that will help libraries enhance the vital role they play and ensure their programs are having a positive impact. Libraries across the province will be able to learn from the results and knowledge gained through these initiatives.”

— Michael Coteau, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport

“January 27 is Family Literacy Day, which is a perfect opportunity for Ontario families to rediscover the joy of reading and learning together. Strong literacy skills are key for children, youth and adults to succeed and reach their full potential — and they are essential for a prosperous society.”

— Liz Sandals, Minister of Education

“This provincial grant will allow OPL to offer innovative programs ranging from community gardening to cooking workshops to chef visits and foodie author talks,” said Tim Tierney, Chair of the Ottawa Public Library Board and Councillor for Beacon Hill – Cyrville. “As a hub for learning, the Library is well-placed to offer this food literacy initiative to help families across Ottawa enjoy healthier, tastier, more affordable meals.” ** QUICK FACTS **

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Ottawa Public Library offered over 12,000 programs in 2013 and serves an area with more than 943,000 people.

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The government is investing $1.6 million in research and innovation projects over two years through the Ontario Libraries Capacity Fund.

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The fund also helps libraries improve and expand internet services, develop user-friendly websites, and enhance their collections with new technologies, such as e-books.

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Libraries are a venue for over 203,000 community programs every year, including programs that support early literacy, employment and job skills, technology, social media and computer literacy.

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Since 2003, the Ontario government has provided over $500 million in funding for public and First Nation libraries.

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January 27 is Family Literacy Day in Canada.