Health News For South West


Wednesday, October 02, 2024
Ontario Ministry Of Tourism, Culture And Gaming
Ontario Investing in First Nations Public Libraries

New funding will ensure continued delivery of in-demand resources and services to First Nations communities

The Ontario government is investing an additional $1.25 million annually in First Nations public libraries to ensure continued delivery of in-demand resources, services and programming to the communities they serve.

“First Nations public libraries are vital community hubs that provide residents of all ages with access to supports promoting success in school, enable skills development and reinforce and revitalize cultural identity,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “This investment, the first of its kind in more than 25 years, underscores our government’s continued efforts to ensure communities across Ontario have the critical infrastructure in place to empower their residents to learn, grow and thrive.”

This enhanced funding will be provided to eligible First Nations public libraries across the province through two existing library support programs: the First Nation Salary Supplement (FNSS) and Public Library Operating Grant (PLOG).

Annual FNSS allocations will increase from $13,000 to up to $35,000 per eligible library to support the retention and hiring of librarians and support staff. Additionally, current PLOG allocations for First Nations public libraries will double, with a minimum annual grant of $1,500 per eligible library provided to help ensure stable operations.

“Today’s announcement of an additional $1.25 million annually for First Nations public libraries is part of our government’s commitment to ensuring that reconciliation becomes a reality for Indigenous families and community members,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation and Minister of Northern Development. “We understand that libraries are woven into the fabric of First Nations communities, serving as a key resource for education, skills development, as well as cultural development for all generations.”
    
Quick Facts:

  • Since 2018, the Ontario government has provided First Nations public libraries with $3,830,886 in funding through the First Nation Salary Supplement and Public Library Operating Grant programs.
  • There are currently 37 First Nations public libraries in Ontario.

Quotes:

"Today's investment in First Nations public libraries is a vital step in supporting communities like the Chippewas of Rama First Nation and Beausoleil First Nation. Libraries are more than just spaces for books; they are hubs of knowledge, culture, and community. By investing in these essential resources, we are empowering future generations to connect with their heritage, foster a love of learning, and build brighter futures."

- Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North

"Stable funding for First Nation Public Libraries is critical for their survival and success. Increased support from the Province of Ontario means First Nation communities can keep library doors open to continue the vital work of supporting community growth, learning, and health. By investing in on-reserve public libraries, the Province of Ontario helps strengthen community ties, promotes literacy, and supports Indigenous knowledge, culture, and language. Ensuring First Nation Public Libraries have the necessary resources not only benefits the libraries themselves but also enhances the overall well-being of the communities they serve."

- Mellissa D’Onofrio-Jones, Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Library Service

"The Ontario Library Association welcomes the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming’s increased support for First Nations public libraries on reserve, in recognition of the important role they fulfill in empowering community members through education, literacy and community building. We embrace the Ontario Government’s leadership in working to ensure that First Nations in Ontario can continue to maintain vibrant, dedicated public libraries in their communities, and we look forward to continuing to work together to ensure that these community hubs have the support and resources they need to thrive."

- Michelle Arbuckle, Executive Director, Ontario Library Association

"First Nations public libraries serve a unique role in preserving their communities’ history, language, and heritage, creating an important place of belonging for community members of all ages, and providing access to digital tools and high-speed internet. As we mark the 2024 First Nations Public Library Week, the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries celebrates the investment by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming in on-reserve libraries across Ontario as a critical measure to help ensure the long-term viability of these important spaces."

- Dina Stevens, Executive Director, Federation of Ontario Public Libraries    
         
Media Contacts:

Kelsey Hrappstead
Minister’s Office
kelsey.hrappstead@ontario.ca

Anthony Vukojevic
Communications Branch
Anthony.Vukojevic@ontario.ca

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