MOOSE JAW — The Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL) continues to be a popular place for residents, as a new report shows there was increased activity in 2024 .
Cody Sharpe, board chairman, presented the organization’s 2024 annual report during the April 28 regular city council meeting.
The document showed that 5,169 kids attended 268 programs last year, versus 7,259 and 287, respectively, in 2023.
Also, 3,813 people attended 299 adult or all-ages programs last year, compared to 2,240 and 311, respectively, in 2023.
There were 16,349 active cardholders last year compared to 15,989 the year before, a jump of 2.3 per cent. Moreover, the library had a total circulation of 351,301 items, compared to 327,196 items in 2023, an increase of 7.4 per cent.
Furthermore, staff answered 26,000 reference questions in 2024 compared to 23,639 queries in 2023, a 10-per-cent jump. Moreover, the organization’s social media posts reached 175,501 people, compared to 165,122 in 2023, a jump of 6.3 per cent.
Also, the library recorded 10,819 internet sessions last year, a decrease from 11,083 sessions in 2023. And, the organization delivered 7,362 items to patrons who were unable to visit the library, a decrease from 8,896 items in 2023.
Overall, 167,497 people visited the MJPL in 2024, compared to 161,501 the year before, an increase of 3.7 per cent.
Council comments
Coun. Heather Eby sits on the library board and says many residents argue that the library is irrelevant. However, she believes the library is more relevant than ever and has “done a phenomenal job” of changing with society and adjusting to demographic changes while inspiring residents.
Eby pointed to the 167,497 people who visited the MJPL last year, adding, “That’s not irrelevant to me.”
Coun. Carla Delaurier liked that the library was an anchor for families, was accessible and provided many services and products. She also liked how the venue offered programs for families of all socio-economic backgrounds.
Presentation
“The Moose Jaw Public Library aims to connect people, ideas and multiple ways of knowing by providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for all,” Sharpe said.
The organization aims to be a vibrant community centre of discovery and lifelong learning that is guided by the values of curiosity, belonging, connection and care, he continued. The library also acts as a hub that provides a transformative experience for everyone.
Sharpe highlighted some activities that the library held in 2024.
For example, the organization’s baby and preschool storytime supported the growth and development of 2,664 children last year, while the Dungeons and Dragons group reached 700 youths between the ages of 12 and 16 and encouraged problem-solving, teamwork, literacy and storytelling.
Furthermore, the library worked with CBC Radio-Canada to host French digital storytelling workshops, where participants crafted personal stories that CBC staff recorded and showcased on the Radio-Canada website.
“It was a joy to connect with this community and celebrate their stories,” said Sharpe.
The library finished using a $50,000 grant from the Canadian Space Agency to enhance its science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) program efforts. The initiative culminated in Col. Jeremy Hansen, an astronaut with the Artemis II mission, who spoke at A.E. Peacock Collegiate to 1,000 students who attended either in person or online.
“It was an impactful presentation about learning through failure and working co-operatively to face global challenges,” said Sharpe.
The MJPL also focused on organizational development, which included enhancing its brand and creating a new logo inspired by the stained-glass rosette in the rotunda ceiling design. It also launched a new website featuring program registration and room bookings, which improved communications and customer satisfaction.
Sharpe added that the MJPL is vital in making Moose Jaw a great place to live since it contributes to the community’s well-being by fostering learning, promoting literacy and bridging the digital divide.
The next regular council meeting is Monday, May 12.
