HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR

The official launch of the Casino Niagara Cares Regional Heritage Collection was held March 8^th in the Sir Harry Oakes Room of the library. Thanks to a generous donation of $50,000 from the Casino Niagara Cares foundation, the Collection will contain literature, art and other resource materials concerning the history of the Niagara region. Materials not available in any public library in the Niagara region will be ordered from booksellers from around the world and kept here for local researchers. All public libraries in Niagara region have access to this special collection and may make submissions regarding the purchase of materials specific to their communities. This will be a major heritage asset for the entire region serving genealogists, writers, researchers, tourists and residents. Jay Meilstrup, Casino Niagara general manager, said that "even in an age of wireless communication, a resource collection that brings a past landscape back to life is a precious educational tool".

The library's new website www.nflibrary.ca was launched April 20^th and is visited more than 2000 times per week. It includes access to the library catalogue and users can place holds, renew library materials and check their personal record. There is a local newspaper index, local history materials and hundreds of Internet links recommended by library staff. Special research databases now include the Canadian Reference Centre, Electric Library, Gale Literature Resource Centre, Health Source and Novelist. There is also helpful information about the library, library services and programs. Even when the library is closed, these resources are now available from home, work or elsewhere.

GOVERNMENT FUNDING

The Library is funded by the City of Niagara Falls and the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship, Culture & Recreation. A grant was also received from Human Resources Development Canada for special children's summer programs. The Board extends thanks to all library supporters, particularly the Council and Staff of the City of Niagara Falls.

DONATIONS & FUND-RAISING

Official receipts for income tax purposes are issued by the library for financial donations. A commemorative book plate or an engraved plaque can recognize donations at any of the 3 libraries.

COMMUNITY USE OF MEETING ROOMS

Library meeting rooms were used hundreds of times by organizations, businesses, government agencies and individuals. Meeting rooms were also used many other times for library programs for children and adults.

LIBRARY PROGRAMMES

Dozens of exhibitions, displays, demonstrations, readings, films and lectures were enjoyed by people of all ages. The library welcomed many community non-profit groups who set-up public education displays on a variety of important subjects. We also extend particular thanks to the artists and organizations who exhibited their work in the art gallery and in the glass display cases.

LIBRARY RESOURCES & THEIR USE

 

FINANCIAL SUMMARY (subject to audit)
Operating budget 2001

 

Prepared: March 2002