Increase Funding to Regional Libraries
Year: 2007
Resolution
Therefore be it resolved that the Provincial Government increase funding for Library Services (Regional Libraries) in the Province.
Provincial Response
Response: I am pleased to inform you that the 2007-08 budget announcements contained a general increase in public library grants of 1.8 %, plus a number of other provisions of interest to public libraries. The Government of Saskatchewan will provide $480,000 to continue CommunityNet connections in 162 public libraries. Also, a recent decision by Saskatchewan Finance to remove the Provincial Sales Tax for online books, magazines, newspapers and other reference materials will result in savings to libraries across our province. The Public Libraries Act, 1996 assigns responsibility for costs for local library services (staff and books) as well as the provision of a library facility to municipalities. Provincial funding is to be used for resource sharing, which is primarily used to support the headquarters operation, and to allow all libraries equitable access to services across the province.
