LAURIE WEIR

The Rideau Lakes Public Library (RLPL) is turning the page on a new chapter, with the recent grand opening of its newly-minted Portland Community Hall and Library, marking the latest milestone in its continued growth and expansion.

At the Monday, May 26 municipal services committee meeting, the library’s CEO Vicki Stevenson shared how the library is building on strategic investments, from accessible facility upgrades to expanding its technological reach, to ensure it remains a key community hub for years to come.

Stevenson provided a summary of the library’s financial position with a promise to share the strategic plan in the coming weeks. Her detailed overview of the library’s financial health received positive feedback from council members, who praised the library’s transparency and efforts to balance its budget.

Stevenson highlighted the library’s reliance on township support, external grants, and self-generated income through fundraising, book sales, and user fees. With 87 per cent of library funding coming from the township levy, she emphasized the financial challenges the library faces due to frozen provincial funding for libraries, which has seen grants decrease by 60 per cent since 1995.

The library has an operating budget of $676,136 and $534,260 is supported by a municipal levy. Other funding is self-generated and supported through grants totalling $81,726, while facilities expenses make up the remaining $60,150.

The library has been resourceful, tapping into federal and provincial grants, such as the $59,277 EAF Federal grant in 2022 for accessible features at the Ron E. Holman Complex and the 2024 LEAF Commonwell grant for furnishings at the new Portland Community Hall and Library.

“I just want to say, you’ve done a wonderful job. I’m very impressed,” said Coun. Linda Carr. “This is a bonus to all the services the library offers.”

Stevenson also touched on the ongoing partnerships with local schools and the community.

Carr asked about the possibility of additional financial support from the local schools, which frequently use the library’s resources. “I know the schools in the area, like South Crosby Public School, use the library a lot. It’s a great partnership,” she noted. “But I wonder, could they contribute financially?”

Stevenson responded with optimism, acknowledging the value of the partnership but pointed out that the schools are facing their own budget limitations. “The schools are really great partners, and we do see a lot of families coming to us through their involvement,” she said.

Councillors had some questions regarding the accessibility and usage of the community meeting rooms. Stevenson clarified that the library does offer bookable spaces through the township, particularly after hours. “Yes, we do have meeting space available through the township, outside of library hours. It’s a great way to support the community,” Stevenson explained.

Council also inquired about tourism promotion at the library. Stevenson mentioned the presence of a small tourism sign but agreed with the suggestion that it could be expanded to attract more attention. “We do have a small tourism sign in our branch, but I definitely agree, it’s something we can look at. A larger sign would be helpful, especially for visitors,” Stevenson said. “We promote tourism information at the library, and it’s a great resource for locals and tourists alike.”

Looking ahead, Stevenson shared some exciting plans for upcoming library programs, including a special event for seniors. 

“We’re planning on some tech sessions where seniors can come in, ask questions, and get help with their devices,” she explained. “It’s all about making sure everyone has access to the technology they need.” 

Additionally, the library will host a “Crime Writers” event in August, and Stevenson hinted at the release of the library’s strategic plan, which is set to be shared with council soon. 

“Before summer, we’ll be updating everyone on our strategic plan, as well as some of the fantastic programs we have coming up,” Stevenson shared, in response to Coun. Paula Banks asking about new programming in Portland. 

“The library is committed to continuing to serve the community in creative and engaging ways.”

The motion to accept Stevenson’s report was supported unanimously.