No cuts required to library programs, hours or collections
TORONTO (Tuesday, January 31, 2012) – The Toronto Public Library Board met last night for the first meeting of the board for 2012. Prior to adopting both the operating and capital budgets for 2012, board members heard a presentation from the Toronto Public Library Foundation about its successes to date and plans for the future. The Foundation reported that, since its inception in 1997, they have raised over $55 million to enhance the collections, programs, services and community spaces of Toronto’s libraries.
Highlights of January 30 meeting of the Board:
2012 Library Operating Budget Adopted
The Board adopted the Council approved 2012 operating budget of $179.409 million gross funded with $164.481 million of net City funding and $14.928 million of other revenue. The approved budget includes a reduction of $10.070 million or 5.9%, as approved by the Library Board at its December 12, 2011 meeting. The funding does not require any reductions to library programs, collections, or branch hours.
2012 Library Capital Budget Approved
The Board adopted the Toronto Public Library 2012 - 2021 Capital Budget and Plan of $221.729 million gross ($152.166 million debt) approved by City Council at its January 17, 2012 meeting. The plan supports the Library’s strategy to maintain its buildings in good repair while addressing changes in service needs and introducing more efficient technological innovation such as self service equipment.
Introduction of “Idea Market” for Toronto Public Library
The Board approved a motion by library board chair, councillor Paul Ainslie to launch an “Ideas that Work” resource tool for Toronto Public Library employees to provide input and suggestions on ways to help improve library service.
Next Meeting
The next meeting of the Library Board is scheduled for February 27, 2012 at 6:00 pm at Toronto Reference Library.
Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 19 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow over 33 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131.
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Media Contact:
Anne Marie Aikins 416-393-7212