October 30, 2008

Dear FOPL Members:

The Federation has issued the attached media release and letter to the provincial government in response to last week’s economic statement by Ontario Finance Minister Dwight Duncan.  Our message is that public libraries become more important to their communities in uncertain economic times and the government should sustain funding for public libraries even in periods of financial restraint.  The rationale is that public libraries provide information and services that are vital in a period of economic downturn and that use of these services will escalate dramatically.  

• Press release to Media
• Letter to Hon. Aileen Carroll, Minister of Culture and Hon. Dwight Duncan, Minister of Finance

 We would welcome any hard data you might have on increased utilization at your respective libraries that might reflect the slowing economy and build additional substance to the case we are making.  Thanks.  

David Allen, CEO
Tel: 416.395-0746

Media articles:

• Bulletin downtown Toronto
• Guelph Mercury
• Hamilton Spectator
• London Free Press
• Niagara Falls Review