Government affirms stable funding for libraries

Minister Madu reads a book with a young Albertan at the Strathcona County Library.

This funding will allow libraries to continue delivering important library services to Albertans, including job-seeking assistance, language-learning, and support for people with print disabilities.

“Our libraries are vital community and learning hubs that support local programs while bringing families and neighbours together. Libraries are essential to our strong quality of life in Alberta and I am proud to support them.”

Kaycee Madu, Minister of Municipal Affairs

Government will invest $37 million into Alberta’s public libraries this year.

“This funding enables our library to continue providing essential services to our residents, especially job seekers, those with print disabilities, and newcomers to Canada. Through provincewide resource sharing, all Albertans will benefit from having access to the resources held in libraries across the province.”

Sharon Siga, CEO, Strathcona County Library

Compared to other provinces with similar library delivery structures, Alberta provides the highest level of direct funding to public library boards and through provincial network initiatives such as SuperNet connectivity and interlibrary loan support.

“We are grateful to the Government of Alberta and, in particular, to the minister of Municipal Affairs for the enthusiasm and support that has been expressed toward the public library community. We recognize that stable funding in a sluggish economy is the best the public libraries could hope for and we look forward to continue working with the government to improve service while finding efficiencies.”

Ron Sheppard, director, Parkland Regional Library System

Quick facts

  • Library funding will remain the same as in 2018-2019, with $31 million going directly to library boards and another $6 million in network support.
  • There are 322 libraries across the province.
  • At least 1.4 million Albertans have a library card. More than 21 million physical and virtual library visits happen across Alberta each year.