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BC funds more digital library resources
Published 11:53 PDT, Wed April 8, 2020
Last Updated: 2:13 PDT, Wed May 12, 2021
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The provincial government has invested $3 million in public libraries to help support online learning and reading resources.
“It’s important that people have access to digital literacy programs, ebooks and online learning,” said Education Minister Rob Fleming. “I am proud to see the innovative ways our libraries continue to support and connect people who want to learn, explore and be entertained through digital resources. This funding will help bring libraries into the homes of families throughout the province.”
The new funding can be used to provide enhanced connectivity services by expanding Wi-Fi capabilities, offering digital literacy trainings, enhancing online library programs and purchasing new technology.
$1.8 million will be allocated to support electronic resource licensing to expand online common collections across the province. The remaining $1.2 million will be distributed directly to libraries.
Public libraries are an important part of the government’s plan to provide affordable services to all British Columbians, said Fleming.
There are 71 public libraries with 249 branches throughout BC, and over 2 million people have library cards.
To learn more about BC’s public libraries, click here.