Don’t cut us back, librarians plead

Claim Ontario cutbacks would be ill timed because hard times mean more people use libraries

In response to Ontario Finance Minister Dwight Duncan’s economic statement last week and his call for restraint in government spending during this period, the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries reports that utilization of public libraries escalates in uncertain economic times.

“In today’s context, the role for public libraries has become more relevant than ever,” said Marzio Apolloni, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Federation.  “There is significant evidence to demonstrate that libraries experience an increase of use of up to 20% during an economic downturn.  People know that no matter what is happening in the economy, they can get the information, services and assistance they need from the public library.”

As the public’s buying power shrinks, more people seek employment, complete their education or upgrade their skills.  These people rely heavily on their public libraries for vital information on job opportunities, career planning and training, and small business management, and on services like literacy programs, computer skills development and supports for newcomers and students.  “In response to lower household incomes, cash-strapped families and individuals will access the public library’s extensive collection of books, databases, DVD’s, magazines and newspapers, rather than buying and renting these same materials,” said Mr. Apolloni.

Computer usage is the area where increased demand is most dramatic.  Because a significant number of Ontarians do not have access to computers at home, long waiting lists for in-house computers at Ontario public libraries are a daily occurrence.  Public libraries provide access to a full range of licensed electronic resources and facilitate the government’s goal of closing the persistent digital divide amongst Ontarians.

Driven by layoffs and eroding retirement savings, many individuals are returning to the workforce and are coming to public libraries for career help.  Often they need help with their computer skills because a lot of job searching these days takes place online.  Rising numbers of employers are demanding online job applications.  Many patrons are turning to public library computers to prepare resumes and cover letters, find work, apply for jobs online and open email accounts.

“Others enroll in public library literacy programs to build their reading, writing and numeracy skills as a means to improving their employment prospects,” said David Allen, the Federation’s Chief Executive Officer.  “Public libraries provide high interest/low vocabulary resources, manuals for tutors, and space for tutoring.”

According to a recent report by Statistics Canada, “Immigrants are more sensitive to macro conditions than are Canadian-born, and their outcomes deteriorate disproportionately during recessions such as in the early 90s.”  During these periods increasing numbers of newcomers turn to public libraries to gain proficiency in English through ESL collections and programs.  Public libraries also provide access to Canadian accreditation information and other job-related materials, and promote volunteer opportunities to help newcomers gain Canadian experience and breakdown barriers to employment.

Public library utilization is also being driven by the growing needs of small businesses and entrepreneurs.  With increasing frequency, these users are accessing the public library’s extensive reference materials and online databases to analyze market trends and investment opportunities.  “These users are the segment of the business community that will lead Ontario’s economic recovery, so providing the necessary supports to them is critical,” said Mr. Allen.

“As the operating budgets of Ontario’s public libraries become tighter, our members are very concerned about their ability to accommodate growing numbers of patrons,” said Mr. Apolloni.  During these uncertain economic times, the Federation stresses the importance to sustain public library services so that Ontarians have a place to go for the information and support they need.

The Federation of Ontario Public Libraries is a not-for-profit member organization that provides a single, strong voice for public libraries in Ontario to enhance library policies and programs through four strategic pillars: advocacy, marketing, research and consortia purchasing.  The Federation’s Board of Directors includes both public library trustees and chief executives.