The first issue is public library infrastructure. Public libraries are in vital need of further investment to build and/or upgrade their infrastructure, and this need is essential for three reasons: one, to incorporate the latest information and communications technologies for library users; two, to increase access to the physically disabled; and three, to become more energy efficient.
Canadians know they can get the information services and assistance they need from their public library. Public libraries are beneficial not only for entertainment and leisure purposes, but they also provide essential resources to help stimulate Canada's national economy.
As the demand for library services and resources continues to rise, essential programs are in extreme danger of being cut due to lack of funding. The library community acknowledges and appreciates recent federal initiatives that support libraries. For example, budget 2009 provided a targeted two-year fund of $60 million to support infrastructure-related costs for local and community cultural and heritage institutions, including libraries. In addition, a selection of public libraries has benefited from the $4-billion infrastructure stimulus fund.
These short-term initiatives demonstrate that progress is being made, but there is much more to be done. Canada still lacks a long-term, sustainable approach to public library infrastructure investment.