Friday, October 17, 2008

Canadian Library Month

The Canadian Library Association / Association canadienne des bibliothèques (CLA/ACB) is pleased to announce that October has been designated as Canadian Library Month! The idea for a month dedicated to library and information services in Canada was developed by library partners from across the country to help raise public awareness of the valuable role that libraries play in the lives of Canadians."

"This year’s theme of Your Library: Your World supports the important role that libraries play in our lives. Libraries are key partners in supporting literacy and are leaders in providing access to information to all users regardless of age, gender, race, religion, social status, language or location."

"Libraries are centres for life-long learning, also referred to as cradle-to-grave learning. They are information and community centres where people learn, engage, discover and connect. Their life-long learning role means libraries have a direct impact on the lives of Canadians each and every day. Libraries are where new Canadians study for citizenship tests, parents and children learn songs and stories, students learn critical thinking and literacy skills, businesses research the marketplace, readers pick up the latest bestsellers, and children are supported in their love of reading."

"There are approximately 23,000 librarians and library clerks working in over 22,000 libraries in Canada. Libraries partner with organizations and government to provide information and services to meet community needs thus acting as gateways to the libraries of the world. Libraries help people find their way in a large and increasingly complex world."