The province has declared October as Library Month, a chance to recognize and celebrate the value libraries deliver to communities throughout B.C.

Learn a language, attend a speaker series, test out new technology, access free internet, borrow early literacy kits or family recreation, museum or art gallery passes; these are just a few of the varied programs and services that public libraries can offer.

During this month, libraries and library partners are working to raise awareness of the valuable role libraries play in our lives.

鈥淎ll libraries are cornerstones of their communities and society,鈥� said Anne Olsen, president of the B.C. Library Association 鈥淭hey ensure that every British Columbian has equitable access to information, ideas and works of the imagination.鈥�

Libraries ensure that all British Columbians have free access to trusted sources of information, workspace, interactive experiences, expertise and learning opportunities. Beyond borrowing books, libraries are where people go to explore an idea, test a theory, make community connections, find information and share knowledge.

Libraries are also increasingly offering a wider range of digital services such as coding workshops, 3-D printers, technology labs and robotics kits.

Libraries help people discover the joy of reading, develop new skills, form deep community ties, find a job, become entrepreneurs and participate in recreation and cultural experiences. Last year in B.C., libraries hosted over 73,000 programs, provided 3,500 computers for public use and circulated over 59 million items.

School Library Day, also known as Drop Everything and Read (DEAR), will be Monday, Oct. 23, 2017. On that day, British Columbians are invited to put down their work and turn off computer screens so they can read a book, magazine or newspaper for 20 minutes.

Libraries: Go check one out. A visit will get you thinking.

To report a typo, email: edit@kelownacapnews.com.

kparnell@kelownacapnews.com
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