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For Immediate Release
April 25, 2007

Ontario Government Boost Literacy And Learning
$5 Million For Libraries Will Strengthen Ontario Communities And Support Education

KINGSTON — John Gerretsen MPP for Kingston and The Islands today announced funding of $153,000 for Kingston-Frontenac Country Public Library. The Ontario government is enhancing the vital role of Ontario’s rural, remote and First Nations libraries as community hubs of literacy, learning and access to information by investing $5 million for libraries.

“This funding recognizes the important role of libraries in Ontario, especially in rural and remote communities of our province,” said Gerretsen. “These libraries often face greater demands and unique challenges in serving local residents.”

The new investment will provide 552 public libraries that serve communities of under 20,000 people with one-time funding of $9,000 each. The Federation of Ontario Public Libraries will also receive a grant of $32,000 to promote the interests of Ontario’s public libraries and help them achieve common goals.

“Our support will ensure that all Ontarians — regardless of where they live — have access to traditional and digital library services that enable them to participate fully in the life of their communities,” said Minister of Culture Caroline Di Cocco.

Ontario's public libraries play a key role in supporting literacy and learning, fostering an appreciation of literature and culture and providing information resources to newcomers, job seekers, small businesses and entrepreneurs.

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For more information contact:
John Gerretsen, MPP
(613) 547-2385

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2008; John Gerretsen, M.P.P.; All Rights Reserved.