Fort St. John council declares October 2023 as Library Month 

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Fort St. John Mayor Lilia Hansen and council declared October 2023 as Library Month in Fort St. John during October 10th’s council meeting.

On Tuesday, the Director of Library Services for the Fort St. John Public Library, Matthew Rankin, presented to council highlighting the services, collections, statistics and the library’s strategic plan.

Organized on a national level by the Canadian Federation of Library Associations (CFLA), Library Month consists of “libraries and library partners across Canada raising awareness of the valuable role libraries play in Canadians’ lives,” read a CFLA statement. 

“More than just a place to find books, libraries promote cultural awareness, engage in the community, provide educational programs, support freedom of expression, and so much more.”

The Fort St. John Public Library holds a vast literature collection of different genres, as well as hosting programs and events for all ages.

It also provides different services, such as library material deliveries to the homebound senior population and computer knowledge training sessions. 

Rankin said the number of in-person traffic to the library has stabilized in the last three years. 

Traffic saw a drastic dip from 82,812 in 2017 to 16,620 in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while in-person traffic to date is 33,240 in 2023, a small drop from 34,594 in 2022.

Program numbers have also stabilized at 4,973 to date in 2023, surpassing 4,965 in 2022. 

For the future, Rankin said the library’s vision is to “Inspire, connect and empower the community.”

“We remain passionate about providing individuals and families who choose to make their home in Fort St. John with innovative and inclusive services.”

In the proclamation, mayor Lilia Hansen stated, “Libraries are partners in fostering lifelong learning and fulfill a vital role in helping people of all ages and from all backgrounds access the information and services they need to learn, work and thrive.”

Hansen added the library also plays an important part in supporting citizen success by offering diverse collections, services, programs and digital resources.