By Greg Nikkel
The Weyburn Public Library marked a very busy and successful year in 2015, with strong support of programs and events held throughout the year, the library board heard at the library’s annual meeting held on March 1.
Dianne Sander will continue as the chair of the board, with Jim Linnell as vice-chair, and board members include Colleen Gallinger, Jen Diemert, Tamara Murray, Randy Bangsund, Linda Moffat, Jan Stadel, Carole Schlosser and city representative Coun. Laura Morrissette.
In her report, Sander noted the strong response and support of the library with the “Why Libraries Matter” survey card which was initiated by the Saskatchewan Library Trustees Association, and were handed out to patrons, including at the book sale. Patrons were asked to indicate what they liked best about their library.
“I think the thing that stands out the most were the cards that people filled out. Of all the people who filled out a card, only one said no. We received around 80 or 90 cards in support,” she said, noting the comments made mention of every program and service available at the library, “so there was affirmation of what we’re doing.”
The cards were then forwarded to the Ministry of Education
In his report, librarian Kam Teo noted there is strong support for the regular weekly and monthly events and groups that meet at the library, plus there were a number of special events that were popular.
Some of the special events included “Desserts and Duets” in March, as local piano players entertained in the Allie Griffin auditorium, and “Downton Abbey Tea” where people dressed in period costume and had tea.
Pakistani cooking with Ambreen Sajid was well-liked by residents, author readings continued to be popular, and on Dec. 3, the STARS Show Choir performed before a crowd of over 100, preceded by Christmas card-making in the Allie Griffin Art Gallery.
The Immigrant Women group had a multicultural potluck on Dec. 12 with Mayor Debra Button as a guest, and then piano teacher Lisa Frederick put on a recital with her students in the Allie Griffin.
The spring and fall used book sale was a major success, raising a total of over $5,600 from the two sales, with the funds going towards buying new materials for the library, and assisting with library programs.
“It continues to be a mainstay for the library,” said Teo.
Another new initiative saw children’s programmer Elsie Lai go out once a week to the Colour My World and Soo Line Day Cares, to read to the children there. This outreach brings the library to children who otherwise may not ever come to the library, and this program will continue to be offered in 2016.
A project in 2015 was a partnership with the Weyburn Wheat Festival and photographer Jon Gillies, who took photos of individuals and families and compiled them into a montage of the Canadian flag, which is now located in the library.
A longtime former librarian, Marlene Yurkowski, was honoured with a donation from the Quota Club in her name, with the funds going towards the toy-lending library.
Marlene was the librarian from 1977 to 1996, and she passed away on Dec. 31, 2014 at the age of 79.
A new digital service, Hoopla, was introduced this year by the Southeast Regional Library, which enables free streaming of movies, TV shows, music, e-books, comics and audiobooks. This gives patrons 24/7 access to many popular and educational titles, and there are no late charges as materials are automatically returned when they are due.
