Library Funding

Whereas libraries in British Columbia are largely financed by levies paid by local governments, and where provincial library funding has remained stagnant for over 10 years; And whereas public libraries are central to communities, providing equitable access to vital resources, including internet, computers, digital library tools, and in-person services from expert staff And whereas public libraries provide British Columbians with low-barrier services, that support job seekers and small businesses, that increase literacy in communities, that advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and that promote equity and inclusion; Therefore be it resolved that UBCM strongly encourage the Government of British Columbia to provide long-term, sustainable funding, clarity on the funding formula and equity in funding for public libraries in BC; And be it further resolved that the Province ensure that BC libraries will henceforth receive regular increases to provincial government funding reflecting the BC Consumer Price Index in subsequent years.