BONNYVILLE – Last week the Bonnyville Municipal Library celebrated its 60th anniversary of serving the community.
Back in 1963, the first Bonnyville library was established by the Town of Bonnyville and MD of Bonnyville with the goal of providing free books and resources to the community, shared library manager Nicole Labrie, during a celebratory gathering at the library on Sept. 7.
“I wonder if those first library members imagined the library as it is today. Not just books, but computers, STEAM kits, digital resources and more. If they realized the library as an all-access pass to the world,” Labrie said.
The library manager gave thanks to the generations of library board members, library staff and the council members that made it possible for the community hub to continue operating for six decades.
“Thank you to the families taking out stacks of books. Thank you to the high schoolers who come to crash on their breaks. Thank you to the tutors, the computer users and the puzzle piece layers,” she said. “Thank you all for being a part of the library’s story. Here's to the last 60 years. Here's to 60 more.”
Jo-Anne Cooper, the library board chair, also expressed her thanks to the community members who spend their time at the local library.
She shared that the goal of public libraries is to be like a “community living room.” Where people can gather to read, study, learn and socialize without having to spend money.
“In the past and today, public libraries are an economic equalizer. People can access e-resources, audio books, sports equipment, and we are always trying to find ways to provide what people are looking for,” Cooper said. “There is free programing for all ages, from cradle to grave.”
Cooper also encouraged all community members to sign up for a free library card.
“Getting a library card is like voting in favour of keeping public libraries open and available in our community,” said Cooper.