Released on October 19, 2015
Libraries across the province are encouraging residents to “Dare to Know” as they celebrate Saskatchewan Library Week, proclaimed today by Education Minister Don Morgan.
“Our libraries are doing a remarkable job of offering Saskatchewan citizens the opportunity to strengthen their literacy skills and share in the joy of reading, both of which are very important to our government,” Morgan said. “I encourage everyone to take the opportunity this week to visit their local library and explore the thousands of resources they have to offer.”
Saskatchewan’s public library system dates back to the early 1900s. One of the first book sharing systems in the province was a travelling library that loaned books in wooden boxes to rural communities. In 2010, the 10 public library systems released a universal library card so that Saskatchewan residents can access resources and services available in the province regardless of where they live.
Today, more than 300 public libraries across the province offer resources accessible to all Saskatchewan residents including a collection of eBooks for readers with print disabilities, DVDs, magazines, downloadable music, animated online books for children, and books in a variety of languages. In addition to the public libraries, there are more than 700 other libraries including those in schools, colleges and businesses that offer collections and services to support genealogy research, business planning, academic success and lifelong learning.
Saskatchewan Library Week is presented by The Saskatchewan Library Association (SLA), a non-profit organization whose work centers on developing library services in Saskatchewan. The SLA believes that libraries have something to offer everyone.
"Saskatchewan libraries are vibrant community centres where people of all ages, cultures, and abilities can learn, connect, and dream," SLA President Gwen Schmidt said. "Libraries change lives."
Saskatchewan Library Week is held annually in conjunction with Education Week and has been co-ordinated by the SLA since 1976.
For more information about Saskatchewan Library Week, please visit www.saskla.ca.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Amanda Purcell
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1069
Email: amanda.purcell@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-533-7506