Bruce Power adds to Bruce County library bookmobile campaign

Bruce Power recently donated $15,000 to the Bruce County Public Library Bookmobile campaign.

(L) Bruce County Library Chair Luke Charbonneau and John Peevers, Bruce Power Director of Community and Media Relations & Economic Development 

In 2014, Bruce County communities were surveyed about what they wanted to see from libraries. The response was clear, and services to smaller and remote communities were not just wanted but needed. The desire for a Bookmobile was reiterated again in the 2021 Strategic Plan community survey. Studying the success in cities like Guelph and Toronto, Bruce County Public Library decided to start the Bookmobile campaign.

                                  Historic Port Elgin bookmobile

Library bookmobiles have a long history of bringing books to people, particularly, in rural Ontario, including in Bruce County. The bookmobile once took books to people not only in rural communities but also to seniors’ homes and today will answer the needs-based stops such as under-served people, such as new Canadians or those with language or literacy barriers.

“Increasing access to the services of the Bruce County Public Library will be of great benefit to the residents of Bruce County,” said Dwight Irwin, Bruce Power’s Manager, Community & Media Relations. “We’re proud to support the library in its efforts to reach more of Bruce County’s residents.”

Community support for this initiative has been outstanding. From donations to press and interview requests, Bruce County residents are excited to see the Bookmobile come to life.

“Bruce County Public Library deeply appreciates the support from Bruce Power for our Bookmobile project. This donation will make a real difference in the lives of children, families, and seniors throughout Bruce County by bringing books and digital resources directly to them,” said Library Director Brooke Mclean.

“Bruce Power is a great community partner, routinely supporting projects that enhance the quality of life for everyone in our region.  Their support for the Bookmobile is another example of this generosity and it is much appreciated,” added Library Board Chair and Saugeen Shores Mayor Luke Charbonneau.

Bruce County Public Library has moved into the planning and designing stages of the Bookmobile and staff are considering potential routes and service locations and determining what technology will best meet the needs of residents.

For more information on the Bruce County Public Library Bookmobile and how you can help, please visit library.brucecounty.on.ca/bookmobile.