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Part of Public library services

Public library grant for skill development in rural Alberta

Select public library boards received funding to boost digital skill training, job readiness programs and newcomer supports.

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Public library services

Overview

The Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation has allocated $200,000 for a grant program to be distributed through the Municipal Affairs Public Library Services Branch (PLSB).

This one-time grant program supports rural public library boards serving populations of 20,000 or fewer to enhance services and programs that help communities build resilience and long-term sustainability.

The grant is intended to support initiatives in rural public libraries that promote:

  • digital literacy, including basic computer skills, cyber security and fraud detection, and evaluating online information effectively
  • employment and job skills development, including resume writing, job interviewing and career exploration
  • support for new Canadians, such as citizenship supports, English language learning, employment supports and welcoming communities

Applications for the grant have closed, and all funding has been distributed to the successful library boards that applied.

Funding

  • This is a one-time grant program with a total budget of $200,000.
  • Grants have been awarded in amounts of up to $10,600 to a total of 37 recipients.
  • This is funding that is separate from PLSB’s annual operating grant funds and is awarded using a process separate from the operating grant application process.

Grant recipients

The following library boards were selected:

  • Grant recipients A to D

    Library boardName of initiativeBrief description
    Alberta Beach Library BoardAlberta Beach Library Technology InitiativeProvide modern, up to date computer literacy and technology for resume writing, financial workshops, job skills, community resources and supports.
    Village of Alliance Library BoardSkills Enhancement Program (SEP)Improve computer skills, especially the ability to recognize and avoid scams and fraud and improve English language skills in new Canadians.
    Town of Athabasca Library BoardYouth Employment and Financial Literacy InitiativeSix-part workshop addressing various topics to assist youth with financial literacy and employment preparation.
    Big Lakes County Library BoardPlant and GrowProviding technology (hydroponic fixtures, UV lights) to assist in gardening and agriculture in the region.
    Village of Breton Library BoardEmpowering Our Community with Accessible and Inclusive TechnologyPurchase a reliable and modern laser printer to support the enhancement of digital literacy, and support employment and job skills development.
    City of Camrose Library BoardWelcome to Camrose!A weekly drop-in program that acts as an orientation to the community as well as English as Second Language classes.
    City of Cold Lake Library BoardFriendly Station for NewcomersThe initiative is to install an exclusive station where newcomers to Cold Lake could access useful resources.
    Village of Consort Library BoardFinding CommunityHelping newcomers to Canada integrate into the community and enhance English language skills through community-focused programming.
    Town of Daysland Library BoardMultimedia UpgradesCommunity based employment training and health and wellness programs for adults and youth.

  • Grant recipients E to K

    Library boardName of initiativeBrief description
    Town of Eckville Library BoardRural ProtectionProvide information sessions to improve digital literacy in the area, specializing in fraud and scam prevention.
    Town of Edson Library BoardRural OutreachPurchase new technology (computers and tablets) to be used by patrons to create resumes and job applications with the assistance of staff.
    Elizabeth Metis Settlement Library BoardElizabeth Metis Settlement LibraryProvide programming to support community literacy and employment, virtual author visits, embrace culture and language through virtual Cree and culture classes, and space for seniors to gather.
    Town of Elk Point Library BoardWalk Right In, Sit Right DownUpgrading seating in computer workstation areas for patrons to utilize resources comfortably.
    Fairview Public Library BoardPathways: Digital Literacy and Community ConnectionsProvide in-person learning opportunities and technology (new computers and monitors) to aid job seekers and newcomers.
    Village of Foremost Library BoardPublic computer replacementUpgrade and replace public use computers to a supported operating system and expand access to digital technology.
    Frog Lake First Nation Library BoardChallenging the Digital DivideOffer various workshops on resume writing, internet usage, online resources, protection from internet fraud/scams, and using and accessing government services.
    Town of Grimshaw Library BoardTechnology Replacement and Employment Services for varying Levels of Digital LiteracyReplacing all the public computers to aid in job searching and application and add an enclosed bulletin board dedicated to job posting and employment initiatives.
    Kehewin Cree Nation Library BoardKehewin Cree Nation LibraryDigital literacy support and programming.
    Village of Kitscoty Library BoardInternet AwarenessSeries of in-person presentations that will increase digital literacy in online safety. Topics to include understanding digital footprint, identifying fraud, evaluating information, etc.

  • Grant recipients L to P

    Library boardName of initiativeBrief description
    Town of Lamont Library BoardAcquiring Knowledge of the Digital World and How to Use It Safely and EthicallyProvide 2 classes that teach seniors and youth to navigate the digital world safely.
    Village of Marwayne Library BoardDigital Literacy Basic Computer SkillsHire an instructor to teach digital literacy skills to the community as well as manage internet safety.
    Town of Mayerthorpe Library BoardNewcomer Registry and Support Services CommitteeMaking the library a hub for new Canadians to access resources and support, learn about Canada and improve English language skills.
    Town of Morinville Library BoardMonthly Digital Literacy Workshops & Career TrainingDeliver classes to community members to improve and enhance digital literacy skills.
    Village of Morrin Library BoardStartups For AllHelping entrepreneurs increase business skills by providing guidance and networking opportunities, as well as acquiring new technology to further develop skills.
    Town of Mundare Library BoardPersonal Digital Safety Series – Think Before You ClickPresenters will talk about personal cybersecurity, online fraud/scams, identifying credible sources and navigating the age of false information or misinformation.
    MD of Opportunity No. 17 Library BoardSkills for SuccessEducate community members in technology with basic computer skills, cyber security education, and resume and employment training.
    Town of Peace River Library BoardNavigating the Digital World: Skills for Safety and SuccessSeries designed to equip participants with the critical digital skills necessary to succeed in today's tech-driven world.

  • Grant recipients R to W

    Library boardName of initiativeBrief description
    Town of Redcliff Library BoardDigital Literacy ProgrammingPurchase of computer equipment to support delivery of digital literacy sessions.
    Stettler Library BoardCome for a Byte Digital Literacy ProjectJoint programming between library and adult learning centre to improve digital literacy programming.
    Town of St. Paul Library BoardNewcomer Community Welcome and IntegrationWeekly meet and greet program to support newcomers and international students, welcoming them to the community.
    Town of Thorsby Library BoardEnglish Language Support for NewcomersConversational English classes and support materials for new Canadians.
    Town of Tofield Library BoardDigital Library Upgrade InitiativeUpgrade technology, add computers to quiet area, invite 2 or 3 specialists in to speak on topics of mental health and job preparation.
    Town of Vauxhall Library BoardTechnology UpgradesPurchase of new computers for patrons and staff.
    Town of Vermilion Library BoardDigital Literacy PromotionExpanding technology training opportunities for seniors and the community at large.
    Town of Vulcan Library BoardConstantly Upgrading for Digital LifeUpgrade and replace public use computers to a supported operating system.
    County of Wetaskiwin No. 10 Library BoardPublic Computer Upgrade – Pigeon Lake LibraryUpgrade and replace public use computers, and support job searching and employment skills training.
    Town of Whitecourt Library BoardDigital Literacy Within Safe & Welcoming CommunitiesDeliver programs to support education for newcomer families and seniors.

Contact

Connect with the Public Library Services Branch:

Phone: 780-427-4871
Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: [email protected]

Address:
17th Floor, Commerce Place
10155 102 Street
Edmonton, Alberta  T5J 4L4

Previous Library board policies and bylaws