Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Agenda
Nanaimo River Room Vancouver Island Conference Centre
Page 1. Call to Order – 9:30 am The Vancouver Island Regional Library Board of Trustees would like to acknowledge the traditional territories of the Indigenous peoples of each of the communities represented by the Trustees present to today’s virtual meeting. a) Opening Remarks b) Roll Call c) Declarations of Conflicts of Interest 2. Agenda a) Items to be removed from Consent Business b) Additions or Deletions c) Approval of Agenda 3. Minutes a) September 19, 2020 Board of Trustees Meeting Unapproved Minutes – 5 for approval b) October 23, 2020 Executive Committee Meeting Unapproved Minutes – 11 for receipt 4. Delegations See http://virl.bc.ca/about-us/library-board/meetings for delegation guidelines 5. Business Arising a) Procedural By-law Review 15 b) Recovery Update Report 21 c) Sooke Site Servicing Report 25 d) Revised VIRL Performance Q2 2020 27 e) VIRL Performance Q3 2020 30 6. Finance a) September 2020 Finance Report 33 b) September 2020 Reserves Report 40 c) Facility Projects Update 44 7. New Business a) 2021 Nominating Committee and Call for Nominations 47 b) 2021 Board of Trustees and Executive Committee Meeting Schedule 49 8. Consent Business a) VIRL in the Media 50 i. MAYOR’S REPORT: Sooke moves smoothly through B.C. Restart Plan, 51 Sooke News Mirror, September 15, 2020 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Agenda ii. Campbell River to get new $14-million library, Campbell River Mirror, 55 September 16, 2020 iii. New $14M library coming to Campbell River, My Campbell River Now, 58 September 16, 2020 iv. New library coming to downtown Campbell River, 97.3 The Eagle, 61 September 16, 2020 v. 76-unit affordable seniors rental complex, with youth and elder social 62 spaces, planned for Sooke's town centre, Citified.ca, September 17, 2020 vi. Lake Trail Students creating art and story walk honouring residential 64 school survivors, My Comox Valley Now, September 20, 2020 vii. Campbell River to get new $14 -million library, Vancouver Island Free 67 Daily, September 21, 2020 viii. Island West Coast To Build State Of The Art Library In , Sooke70 Business Examiner, September 22, 2020 ix. New day for Sooke: library construction to begin, Island Social 73 Trends, September 22, 2020 x. New Sooke library project awarded to Nanaimo-based company, 76 Victoria News, September 23, 2020 xi. Shovels in the ground are once again promised for the new Sooke 79 Library, Sooke PocketNews, September 25, 2020 xii. Arts and Entertainment column, Art, film, books and music all on tap 81 in Cowichan, BC Local News, October 1, 2020 xiii. Takeout service applies to the Chemainus Library, Chemainus Valley 86 Courier, October 4, 2020 xiv. Vancouver Island Regional Library presents reading90 by Saskatchewan poet laureate, Nanaimo News Bulletin, October 7, 2020 xv. Libraries in Cowichan exoabd services after pandemic shutdown 93 Discourse. ca, October 7, 2020 xvi. Library tries to get read on users with online survey, Sooke News 96 Mirror, October 8, 2020 xvii. Business notes: Providence Farm’s pumpkin patch opened for98 business, Cowichan Valley Citizen, October 9, 2020 xviii. Construction set to begin on new Sooke library, Saanich News,103 October 14, 2020 xix. Construction to start next week on Sooke's new library, Times105 Colonist, October 14, 2020 xx. Exceptional Seniors Nominated for VERA Award 2020, INSPIRED107 Staff, October 20, 2020 xxi. Construction set to begin on new Sooke library, Vancouver Island122 Free Daily, October 20, 2020 xxii. Ground-breaking for the new Sookelibrary, Sooke News Mirror, 124 October 22, 2020 xxiii. Sooke Elementary plants native plant gardenwith help from 125 community, Goldstream News Gazette, October 22, 2020 xxiv. Mayor of Campbell River addresses concerns surrounding new library 127 funding – Campbell River Mirror, October 23, 2020 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Agenda xxv. Sooke starts construction on new library, constructconnect.com., 131 October 26, 2020 xxvi. Comox library is open for walkthrough service – Comox Valley 133 Record, October 27, 2020 xxvii. Chemainus library open again for walk-through service, Chemainus 135 Valley Courier, October 28, 2020 xxviii. ASK SEASIDE - Questions_ Queries_ Let Us Find the Answers for You, 138 Sea Side Magazine, October 29, 2020 xxix. Island libraries ramp back up after COVID shut down _ 140 NanaimoNewsNOW, October 28, 2020 xxx. CVAC ready to play next month in Duncan, Cowichan Valley Citizen, 141 October 30, 2020 xxxi. Sooke library set to reopen in November, Victoria News, October 30, 145 2020 xxxii. VIU Partners with Community to Remember Fallen Soldiers, October 147 30, 2020 xxxiii. City should consider fresh alternative to the library plan, BC Local149 News, November 5, 2020 o VIRL’S Campbell River New Branch FAQs, November 5, 2020 xxxiv. New chair chosen for SRD board – Campbell River Mirror, November 155 5, 2020 b) Correspondence 157 i. Email from Library Customer to R. Bonanno, Executive Director and 158 Trustee V. Craig re: Library closures and cost and use of staff, May 2, 2020 ii. Email from Library Customer to R. Bonanno, Executive Director159 re: Access to Gabriola Library, September 9, 2020 iii. Email from R. Bonanno, Executive Director to Library Customer160 re: Access to Gabriola Library, September 10, 2020 iv. Email from Library Customer to M. Patterson, Executive Assistant162 re: Opening of Quadra Island Library, September 18, 2020 v. Email from M. Legacy, Director of Library Services & Planning to165 Library Customer re: Opening of Quadra Island Library, October 2, 2020 vi. Email from Library Customer to Board of Trustees re: 166 VIRL re-opening, September 22, 2020 vii. Email from Library Customer to Dr. Bonny Henry re: VIRL services, 167 and email from Library Customer to VIRL Information Desk re: VIRL services, September 22, 2020 viii. Email from R. Bonanno, Executive Director to Library Customer169 re: VIRL Re-opening, September 30, 2020 ix. Email from Library Customer to M. Patterson, Executive Assistant171 re: VIRL services, October 2, 2020 c) Media Releases 172 i. New Library Coming to Campbell River, September 16, 2020 173 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Agenda ii. Vancouver Island Regional Library is Stronger Than Ever with 2021 175 Budget, September 19, 2020 iii. Work to begin shortly on new Sooke library, September 22, 2020 176 iv. Cowichan library opens for Walkthrough service, September 29, 178 2020 v. VIRL’s Port Clements branch opens for Sit Down Service, October 2, 180 2020 vi. Construction begins on New Sooke Library, October 14, 2020 182 vii. Almost all VIRL branches set to offer expanded services this week, 184 October 27, 2020 9. In Camera 10. Adjournment Next Meetings: January 30, 2021 – Annual General Meeting February 26, 2021 – Executive Committee March 27, 2021 – Board of Trustees
4 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 3 (a)
Minutes of the September 19, 2020 Board of Trustees Meeting
For Approval
5 Board of Trustees Meeting September 19, 2020 UNAPPROVED Minutes
Virtual: Zoom.us Present:
Brenda Leigh, Strathcona RD (Chair) Adam Walker, Qualicum Beach Gaby Wickstrom, Port McNeill (Vice Chair) Jesse Embree, Queen Charlotte Colleen Evans, Campbell River Barbara Fallot, Sidney Nicole Minions, Comox Jeff Bateman, Sooke Manno Theos, Courtenay Lynda Llewellyn, Tahsis Vickey Brown, Cumberland Duncan McMaster, Tofino Brenda Patrick, Gold River Marilyn McEwen, Ucluelet Jeff Virtanen, Ladysmith Penny Cote, Alberni / Clayoquot RD Carolyne Austin, Lake Cowichan Mike Hicks, Capital RD Terry Carty, Masset Jayme Kennedy, Central Coast RD Erin Hemmens, Nanaimo Blaise Salmon, Cowichan Valley RD Jack McClintock, North Saanich Andrew Hory, Mount Waddington RD Teresa Patterson, Parksville Vanessa Craig, Nanaimo RD Bruce Lloyd, Port Alice Evan Putterill, North Coast RD Ian Gould, Port Clements Andrew Fall, qathet RD Fred Robertson, Port Hardy
Regrets: Jenni Capps, Duncan Norm Kirschner, Sayward Ian Savage, Lantzville Barb Lewis (Alternate), Zeballos Debra Toporowski, North Cowichan Daniel Arbour, Comox Valley RD Sharie Minions, Port Alberni
Staff: Rosemary Bonanno, Executive Director Anne O’Shea, Deputy Executive Director / COO Joel Adams, Director of Finance David Carson, Director of Corporate Communications & Strategic Initiatives Lisa House, Director of Human Resources Melissa Legacy, Director of Library Services & Planning Melanie Barnum, Parliamentarian / Divisional Manager, Facilities Jennifer Bond, Divisional Manager, Finance Mariah Patterson, Executive Assistant Saho Lindberg, Administrative Assistant (Recorder)
6 Board of Trustees Meeting September 19, 2020 UNAPPROVED Minutes
1. Call to Order – 9:30am The Vancouver Island Regional Library Board of Trustees would like to acknowledge the traditional territories of the Indigenous peoples of each of the communities represented by the Trustees present to today’s virtual meeting.
a) Opening remarks
The Chair presented Melanie Barnum with a plaque for the Indigenous Voices initiative winning of the 2020 American Library Association (ALA) Presidential Citation award for Innovative International Library Projects.
b) Roll call As above.
c) Declarations of Conflicts of Interest None.
2. Agenda a) Items to be removed from Consent Business None.
b) Additions or deletions None.
c) Approval of agenda Motion: Moved by Adam Walker / seconded by Barbara Fallot that the agenda be approved by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
3. Minutes a) May 30, 2020 Board of Trustees Meeting Unapproved Minutes Motion: Moved by Manno Theos / seconded by Erin Hemmens that the May 30, 2020 Board of Trustees Meeting Unapproved Minutes be approved by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
b) July 3, 2020 Executive Committee Meeting Approved Minutes Motion: Moved by Nicole Minions / seconded by Adam Walker that the July 3, 2020 Executive Committee Meeting Approved Minutes be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
c) August 28, 2020 Executive Committee Meeting Unapproved Minutes Motion: Moved by Vanessa Craig / seconded by Gaby Wickstrom that the August 28, 2020 Executive Committee Meeting Unapproved Minutes be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
4. Delegations No delegations.
7 Board of Trustees Meeting September 19, 2020 UNAPPROVED Minutes
5. Business Arising a) 2019 Audited Financial Statements Motion: Moved by Colleen Evans / seconded by Penny Cote that the 2019 Audited Financial Statements be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
b) 2019 Audited Findings Report Guest: Cory Vanderhorst, MNP Motion: Moved by Adam Walker / seconded by Erin Hemmens that the 2019 Audited Findings Report be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
Cory Vanderhorst and Jane Lumb departed the meeting at 9:53am.
c) Elimination of Children’s Fines Report Motion: Moved by Adam Walker / seconded by Colleen Evans that the Elimination of Children’s Fines Report be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
Motion: Moved by Fred Robertson / seconded by Vanessa Craig that staff investigate adolescent fines.
Motion: Moved by Andrew Fall / seconded by Teresa Patterson to amend the previous motion that staff investigate young adult and adult fines. Carried.
d) VIRL Performance Q2 2020 Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Adam Walker that the VIRL Performance Q2 2020 be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
Motion: Moved by Erin Hemmens / seconded by Adam Walker to add a section to the VIRL quarterly report regarding the community’s response on reopening activities. Carried.
6. Finance a) July 2020 Finance Report Motion: Moved by Andrew Fall / seconded by Nicole Minions that the July 2020 Finance Report be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
b) July 2020 Reserves Report Motion: Moved by Adam Walker / seconded by Nicole Minions that the July 2020 Reserves Report be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
c) Facility Projects Update Motion: Moved by Adam Walker / seconded by Colleen Evans that the Facility Projects Update be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
Bruce Lloyd and Manno Theos departed the meeting at 10:50am.
8 Board of Trustees Meeting September 19, 2020 UNAPPROVED Minutes
7. In Camera 10:50am – 12:01pm Motion: Moved by Barbra Fallot / seconded by Penny Cote that the Board of Trustees meeting move In Camera. Carried.
Mike Hicks, Teresa Patterson and Carolyne Austin departed the meeting at 12:01pm
The meeting recessed at 12:01pm and reconvened at 12:15pm
8. Retooling: Stronger Than Ever. Together. 2021 – 2025 Proposed Financial Plan
Motion: Moved by Colleen Evans / seconded by Penny Cote that the Retooling: Stronger Than Ever. Together. 2021 – 2025 Proposed Financial Plan be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
Colleen Evans departed the meeting at 12:50pm.
Motion: Moved by Jeff Bateman / seconded by Adam Walker that the Board of Trustees adopt the Retooling: Stronger Than Ever. Together., 2021 - 2025 Financial Plan reflecting a 1.87% increase over 2020. Carried.
Jeff Virtanen and Terry Carty departed the meeting at 1:10pm.
9. New Business a) Recovery Update Report Motion: Moved by Andrew Fall / seconded by Adam Walker that the Recovery Update Report be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
Erin Hemmens departed the meeting at 1:15pm.
b) Provincial Funding Update Motion: Moved by Gaby Wickstrom / seconded by Andrew Fall that the Provincial Funding Update be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
Lynda Llewellyn departed the meeting at 1:29pm.
c) VIRL Connects: Digital Care Packages Motion: Moved by Adam Walker / seconded by Penny Cote that the VIRL Connects: Digital Care Packages be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
d) VIRL’s Partnership with the Ministry of Education’s ShareEdBC Project Motion: Moved by Adam Walker / seconded by Nicole Minions that the VIRL’s Partnership with the Ministry of Education’s ShareEdBC Project be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
e) VIRL’s 2019 Annual Report Motion: Moved by Gaby Wickstrom / seconded by Penny Cote that VIRL’s 2019 Annual Report be received by the Board of Trustees.
Carried.
9 Board of Trustees Meeting September 19, 2020 UNAPPROVED Minutes
10. Consent Business Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Adam Walker that all Consent Business be received by the Board of Trustees. Carried.
11. Adjournment 1:44pm Motion: Moved by Gaby Wickstrom / seconded by Adam Walker that the meeting be adjourned. Carried.
Brenda Leigh Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Chair, Board of Trustees Executive Director Vancouver Island Regional Library Vancouver Island Regional Library
10 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 3 (b)
Regular Minutes of the October 23, 2020 Executive Committee Meeting
For Receipt
11 Executive Committee Meeting October 23, 2020 Unapproved Minutes
Virtual: Zoom.us Present: Brenda Leigh, Strathcona RD (Chair) Fred Robertson, Port Hardy Gaby Wickstrom, Port McNeill (Vice Chair) Lynda Llewellyn, Tahsis Nicole Minions, Comox Penny Cote, Alberni / Clayoquot RD
Debra Toporowski, North Cowichan Daniel Arbour, Comox Valley RD
Regrets: Manno Theos, Courtenay Evan Putterill, North Coast RD Brenda Patrick, Gold River
Staff: Rosemary Bonanno, Executive Director Anne O’Shea, Deputy Executive Director / COO Joel Adams, Director of Finance David Carson, Director of Corporate Communications & Strategic Initiatives Lisa House, Director of Human Resources Melissa Legacy, Director of Library Services & Planning Melanie Barnum, Parliamentarian / Divisional Manager, Facilities Mariah Patterson, Executive Assistant Saho Lindberg (Recorder)
1. Call to Order – 9:30am The Vancouver Island Regional Library Board of Trustees would like to acknowledge the traditional territories of the Indigenous peoples of each of the communities represented by the Trustees present to today’s virtual meeting. a) Opening Remarks Welcome and overview of agenda.
b) Roll Call As above.
c) Declarations of Conflicts of Interest No declarations.
2. Agenda a) Items to be Removed from Consent Business None.
b) Additions or Deletions None.
c) Approval of Agenda Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Deborah Toporowski that the agenda be approved by the Executive Committee. Carried. 12 Executive Committee Meeting October 23, 2020 Unapproved Minutes
3. Minutes a) August 28, 2020 Executive Committee Meeting Unapproved Minutes Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Nicole Minions that the August 28, 2020 Executive Committee Meeting Unapproved Minutes be approved by the Executive Committee. Carried.
b) September 19, 2020 Board of Trustees Meeting Unapproved Minutes Motion: Moved by Gaby Wickstrom / seconded by Deborah Toporowski that the September 19, 2020 Board of Trustees Meeting Unapproved Minutes be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
4. Business Arising a) Procedural By-law Review Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Nicole Minions that the Procedural By-law Review be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
Motion: Moved by Daniel Arbour / seconded by Nicole Minions that the following clause be added to Section 5, Board Meetings of the Procedural By-law:
“In the event that a temporary closure of VIRL service locations will exceed 30 days or an event that would result in greater than 50% of the workforce being temporarily or permanently laid off, the Executive Director will request a Special Executive Committee Meeting to inform members of the financial impact to the budget, the impact to in-house services, the impact to customers and the impact to staff.”
and the Executive Committee recommends the revision to the Board of Trustees. Carried.
b) Recovery Update Report Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Daniel Arbour that the Recovery Update Report be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
c) Sooke Site Servicing Report Motion: Moved by Daniel Arbour / seconded by Deborah Toporowski that the Sooke Site Servicing Report be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
d) Revised VIRL Performance Q2 2020 Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Lynda Llewellyn that the Revised VIRL Performance Q2 2020 report be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
e) VIRL Performance Q3 2020 Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Deborah Toporowski that the VIRL Performance Q3 2020 report be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
13 Executive Committee Meeting October 23, 2020 Unapproved Minutes
5. Finance a) August 2020 Finance Report Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Gaby Wickstrom that the August 2020 Finance Report be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
b) August 2020 Reserves Report Motion: Moved by Daniel Arbour / seconded by Nicole Minions that the August 2020 Reserves Report be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
c) Facility Projects Update Motion: Moved by Daniel Arbour / seconded by Deborah Toporowski that the Facility Projects Update be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
6. New Business a) 2021 Nominating Committee and Call for Nominations Motion: Moved by Daniel Arbour / seconded by Deborah Toporowski that the 2021 Nominating Committee and Call for Nominations report be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
Motion: Moved by Gaby Wickstrom / seconded by Penny Cote to refer back to staff to revise the 2021 nominating procedure to eliminate nominations from the floor and to include a deadline for all nominations received. Carried.
b) 2021 Board of Trustees and Executive Committee Meeting Schedule Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Nicole Minions that the 2021 Board of Trustees and Executive Committee Meeting Schedule be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
7. Consent Business Motion: Moved by Gaby Wickstrom / seconded by Deborah Torporowski that all Consent Business be received by the Executive Committee. Carried.
8. In Camera 10:35am Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Deborah Toporowski that the Executive Committee meeting move In Camera. Carried.
Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Gaby Wickstrom that the Executive Committee rise and return to the open portion of the meeting. Carried.
9. Adjournment 11:05am Motion: Moved by Penny Cote / seconded by Gaby Wickstrom that the meeting be adjourned. Carried.
Brenda Leigh Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Chair, Board of Trustees Executive Director 14 Vancouver Island Regional Library Vancouver Island Regional Library Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (a)
Procedural By-law Review
Recommendation The Executive Committee recommends: That the Procedural By-law Review report be received by the Board of Trustees; and That the following clause be added to Section 5, Board Meetings of the Procedural By-law: “In the event that a temporary closure of VIRL service locations will exceed 30 days or an event that would result in greater than 50% of the workforce being temporarily or permanently laid off, the Executive Director will request a Special Executive Committee Meeting to inform members of the financial impact to the budget, the impact to in-house services, the impact to customers and the impact to staff.” The Motion to amend Section 5 of the Procedural By-law requires three readings at the current meeting. A Motion to adopt the by-law amendment to Section 5 of the Procedural Bylaw is required at the subsequent Board meeting.
Background
At the Special Board Meeting of Saturday April 25, 2020, the Board directed staff to review the process for decision making during a declared state of emergency, not in day to day operations.
The Board’s Procedural By-Law is silent on specific actions to be taken during a state of emergency, so the following sources were reviewed in light of the direction: • Library Act • Board of Trustees Procedural By-law • 2020 Approved Budget • Exempt Employees Terms and Conditions • CUPE Collective Agreement: Notice of layoff and recall • BCGEU Collective Agreement: Notice of layoff and recall • Executive Director’s Job Description
Upon review of the decision making process that took place on March 16, 2020, compiled with the Procedural By-Law and the provincial Library Act: Library Act [section 20 (3)] the Chair or any 2 members may call a special meeting of the library board by notifying, in writing, the other members at least 5 days before the meeting and stating in the notice the purpose of the meeting
15 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (a)
The Library Act restricts the ability for an emergency meeting to be called and conducted when time is of the essence. VIRL has no ability to amend the Library Act in order to enable timely decision making with the entire Board.
The Procedural By-law addresses the silence of the Library Act: Procedural By-law (Board Chair pg. 9) where timely action is required that should not reasonably be delayed until the next executive committee meeting, the Chair provides direction to the Executive Director on an interim basis; Procedural By-Law (Executive Director pg.11) in the absence of the Board, the Executive Director will receive direction from the Chair
The chart below provides the chronology of events on March 16 identifying the timeline and the parties that were advised regarding the suspension of in-house library services.
COVID Communication, Monday, March 16, 2020. VIRL is closely 9:55 am monitoring the situation and will provide an update at 1 pm Executive Leadership Group meet to discuss temporary closure 11:00 am Notification to all staff on the internal intranet “Inside” 1:22 pm Email notification to Trustees, Mayors & Chairs, and CAOs with an 2:04 pm official COVID-19 Update Memo attached Notification to the public posted on the VIRL Website 2:21 pm A Media Release regarding the notification of VIRL closures sent to all 2:21 pm media in the VIRL service area Notification to all members of the Executive Leadership Group and 2:21 pm Leadership Team Executive Leadership Group meets to hear televised order from 2:30 – 3:30 pm Dr. Bonnie Henry Email to Trustees, Mayors & Chairs, and CAOs with an attached Media 5:00 pm Release: VIRL Closing All Branches End of Day March 16 in Response to COVID-19
The proposed language change would then be followed through to the Board advising on impact to customers, impact to staff and financial implications.
Economic Impact No economic impact. Communication Plan The Board Procedural By-law will be amended accordingly.
Respectfully submitted, Melanie Barnum Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Parliamentarian | Divisional Manager, Facilities Executive Director
16 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (a)
Research
Public Announcements in the Media March 16 to March 18, 2020
March 16 Information retrieved from: CBC Website, posted March 16, 2020 5:00 am: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/coronavirus-update-bc-what-you-need-to- know-march-16-1.5498752) • Spring Break for many communities in BC • Many British Columbians are on vacation • British Columbians asked to not hold gatherings with more than 50 people (Staff on hand at Nanaimo North daily: 40 in Administration; 10 plus in the Branch) • Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Canada is closing its borders • BC Cities, including Vancouver, Surrey, West Vancouver, Port Coquitlam and Delta, close all community centres, recreation facilities and libraries. • Vancouver Art Gallery closed • Universities close • Citizens are being asked to stay home • Every hospital in the province to prepare for an influx of patients • Municipalities asked to close non-essential community hubs • BC Health Minister Adrian Dix has asked all hospitals in the province to move to an outbreak response phase, meaning all non-urgent scheduled surgeries will be postponed
March 17 Information retrieved from: CBC News Website, posted March 17, 2020 5:00 am PT: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/coronavirus-update-bc-what-you-need-to- know-march-17-1.5499835 • Dr. Bonnie Henry, BC Provincial Health Officer, declared a public health emergency • Social Distancing strongly advised; public to avoid crowds • All bars and nightclubs in BC have been ordered to close • BC elementary and secondary schools have been ordered to stay closed indefinitely • Courthouses in Chilliwack, Nanaimo and Campbell River close, others reduce operations • Ski hills close • BC Ferries begins to adjust ferry schedules
March 18 Information retrieved from: CBC News Website, posted March 18, 2020 5:00 am PT: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/coronavirus-update-bc-what-you-need-to- know-march-18-1.5501183 • BC Government declared a provincial state of emergency • Vancouver and Delta declare local states of emergency • BC Supreme Court suspends all operations • Mayor Kennedy Stewart ordered all bars and restaurants in the downtown core to close
17 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (a)
Governance Duties versus Operational Duties
A governance Board sets policies, approves budgets and informs the strategic direction of an organization; this establishes the framework of the regional library system. Through the operational work of VIRL, the Executive Director obtains and maintains the resources to produce the library services that serve the public.
Policies set by the Board include: Anonymous Communications Request to Appear as a Delegation Collection Development Respectful Workplace Donations and Sponsorships Rules of Conduct Facilities Security Video Surveillance Fees and Charges Social Media Friends of the Library Tangible Capital Assets Internet Access Use of Library Space for Art Exhibits/ Privacy Application to Exhibit Art Procurement Whistleblower Prohibition and Appeal Process
VIRL’s operational decision making has been delegated to the Executive Director through the Library Act and the Procedural By-law. This delegation of duties is the implementation of Board policies within the operation of the regional library system as a whole. The operational function is carried out in the name of the Board.
Library Act (p. 9, 10) Section 21:
This language is determined by the Province of BC:
General powers and duties of library board
21 The library board a) may make rules for managing its business and for regulating the use of its facilities and services by the public, b) may appoint any committees of its members that it considers necessary to carry out its business, c) must appoint a chief librarian, d) may hire and dismiss employees, enter into collective agreements with employees and set the terms of their employment, including fixing their remuneration and duties, e) may acquire land and lease or construct buildings for library purposes, f) may dispose of land or buildings, g) may acquire personal property for library purposes and dispose of personal property, h) may contract, for a term of not more than 5 years, for professional or other services for library purposes, i) may sue and be sued, j) may have a common seal and may alter or change it, and
18 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (a)
k) must prepare an annual report in the form approved by the minister and must send copies of the report to the minister.1
Powers and duties of chief librarian 27 the chief librarian a) has general supervision and direction of the regional library district and its staff, b) is the secretary to the library board, and c) has the powers and duties the library board assigns to the chief librarian from time to time.
Procedural By-law:
Reiterates the general duties and powers of the board stated in the Library Act.
Signing Authority (p. 6)
The authority for spending within the approved budget and reserves is delegated to staff through Board policy.
Board Chair (p. 9, third bullet)
It shall be the duty of the Chair to: • Where timely action is required that should not reasonably be delayed until the next Executive Committee meeting, the Chair provides direction to the Executive Director on an interim basis;
Executive Director (p. 11)
Under the authority of the Act, the Executive Director shall be the Chief Librarian and Executive Director of the Board, and shall have general supervision over and direction of the operations of the Libraries and its staff, shall attend all Board and Committee meetings, and shall have all other powers and duties that the Board assigns. The Board shall appoint an Executive Director who shall report to the Chair, and who shall serve as Chief Librarian and Secretary-Treasurer to the Board. In the absence of the Board, the Executive Director will receive direction from the Chair. The Executive Director’s responsibilities are described in the current version of the Executive Director’s Job Description.
1 This section is echoed in section 2 of the Procedural By-law.
19 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (a)
20
Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (b)
Recovery Update Report
Recommendation The Executive Committee recommends: That the Recovery Update Report be received by the Board of Trustees.
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic led to the suspension of all Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) in-branch services as of March 17, 2020. The VIRL Recovery Plan was implemented in May which outlined a phased approach to resuming library services, factoring in the BC Restart Plan and WorkSafe BC Protocols for Arts and Culture Facilities Reopening. The primary consideration every step of the way is the health and safety of staff and the public, while providing services that libraries are uniquely positioned to offer in our communities.
Phases of Recovery Phase 1: Branch Preparation Safety assessments and facility inspections are required at all branches along with staff training on new safety protocols. This was completed at all of our locations during the month of June to prepare for Phase 2.
Phase 2: Takeout Service Takeout service offers customers a safe opportunity to pick up items reserved ahead of time. Staff serve customers at the door of the branch one at a time, sometimes with scheduled appointments. All locations are currently offering takeout of library materials to their communities.
Phase 3: Graduated Openings In this phase there are two approaches. One approach for larger spaces is to initially offer a Walkthrough service. The second approach for smaller spaces is to offer a Sit Down service. Both approaches require a new risk assessment and have significant safety precautions in place regarding physical distancing, limited touch points, and reduced capacity.
21 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (b)
Phases 4 and 5: Increased Opening and Full Service This will not happen until there is a significant decrease in risk or a treatment and/or vaccine is available. Timelines will be determined after implementing and assessing Phase 3 and with direction from Provincial Health authorities.
Virtual Services Due to the impact of COVID-19, many people find themselves accessing more services online. Our customers look to the library to provide access to new and interesting virtual services they can use from home. To date, we have increased our offering of electronic resources and databases to support reading, entertainment, and access to lifelong learning.
A Virtual Services Project Team was formed to create a framework to grow virtual services and online programming as a dynamic long-term service for our customers. This project calls upon staff in all branches to create new and exciting programs and online content for our customers. These online programs are promoted through an enhanced programming calendar on the VIRL website, shared as Facebook events and archived on YouTube, with expansion into other virtual platforms as appropriate, creating a notable library of virtual, convenient, on-demand content for customers. Virtual information services, including the [email protected] email and 1-877 help line will continue with the addition of branch staff answering phone and email inquiries directly.
Virtual Services will be based around five pillars of service: 1. Online Information Services 2. Digital Video Creation 3. Digital Literacy 4. eSports 5. Online Clubs
The details and planning of these services are ongoing with a number of initiatives already implemented.
Current State Staff have been working hard to reopen branches and safely allow limited computer use, where possible. As of Friday October 16, the following branches are open at Phase 3:
• Bowser open for walkthrough • Cowichan open for walkthrough • Nanaimo Harbourfront open for walkthrough • Nanaimo North open for walkthrough • South Cowichan open for walkthrough • Bella Coola open for sit down • Masset open for sit down
22 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (b)
• Port Clements open for sit down • Queen Charlotte City open for sit down • Sayward open for sit down • Sointula open for sit down
Next Steps Branches not listed above are offering curbside Takeout service and have been required to complete all risk assessments and plan to open for either Walkthrough or Sit Down service the week of October 26, 2020. We anticipate most remaining branches will reopen that week. Those not able to meet the deadline will be submitting a detailed report outlining the risks that need to be resolved, and we will address those, where possible.
As the overall COVID picture in the province changes week to week, VIRL is well prepared to respond to a potential next wave or new direction from the Provincial Health Authority. The Recovery Plan was designed so services could move between the phases, ensuring there is always some level of service to our communities. For instance, if branches offering Walkthrough or Sit Down service have to scale back contact with the public due to increased restrictions, they can move back to Takeout service very easily, as everything is already in place. Likewise, virtual services and programs can continue regardless of increased restrictions.
Any transition to Phase 3 is contingent upon the completion of a thorough risk assessment and job safety analysis for each location. The space requires new signage, furniture removal or layout revisions, and updated cleaning procedures/contracts.
Economic Impact No additional impact.
Communication Plan Branch and virtual service updates are shared with staff via our Intranet as new developments occur. Branches moving into Phase 3 and new virtual services available to customers are promoted on our social media platforms, website, and via media releases, where applicable.
Related to the Strategic Plan Community VIRL commits to providing a “vibrant, welcoming place for people of all socioeconomic groups, cultures and literacy levels”. During COVID-19, we continue to provide a welcoming space for our communities to engage.
23 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (b)
Collect. Connect. Collaborate. Create. VIRL commits to “provide our communities with access to the information they need”. During COVID-19, we will continue to connect our communities to the information they need through virtual services and limited branch access.
Respectfully submitted,
Melissa Legacy, BA MLIS Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Director of Library Services and Planning Executive Director
24
Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (c)
Sooke Site Servicing Report
Recommendation The Executive Committee recommends: That the Sooke Site Servicing Report be received by the Board of Trustees.
Background
In March 2017, the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board of Trustees approved a new, 10,000 square foot branch be built by VIRL at the northwest corner of Lot A on Wadams Road in Sooke. Access to $6 million in construction funding had previously been established through the Capital Regional District. In June 2019, the VIRL Board approved an increase of the project budget from $6 million to $7.5 million to reflect cost increases in the construction market.
Because the location of the new branch is currently not serviced by hydro or water, new connections are required. Water can be connected to a line that is close to the site, but hydro requires a new line to be run along Wadams Way to the branch property line, a distance of approximately 250 metres. To be compliant with Sooke’s by-laws, this new line must be installed underground, which is approximately twice the cost of above ground installation. The connection from the building to the property line has always been included as part of the construction costs, and will be installed underground.
Preliminary costing information from BC Hydro shows that it is approximately $215,000 to install the new underground line. VIRL and Sooke came to a temporary impasse in regards to which party was responsible for funding the cost of the new hydro line. After discussion at both the Sooke Council and VIRL Board, an agreement was reached for Sooke to take on the full cost of the new line, and for VIRL to contribute a maximum of $75,000. This represents the estimated cost of “base power”, with Sooke being fully responsible for the incremental cost of installing the new hydro line underground.
At the In Camera portion of the September 19 Board meeting, the following motions were passed related to this item:
Moved by Mike Hicks / seconded by Erin Hemmens that staff be directed to secure the necessary $75,000 from the Sooke library project budget. Carried. Moved by Vanessa Craig / seconded by Adam Walker that staff be directed to investigate cost saving options with the Sooke library.
Moved by Vanessa Craig / seconded by Andrew Fall to amend the previous motion that staff be directed to investigate cost recovery options with the Sooke library. Carried.
25 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (c)
Economic Impact Staff are determining how the $75,000 can be absorbed into the project budget with the least amount of impact to public space. Options include reductions to the assigned budgets for furniture & equipment, IT equipment, opening day collection, and others.
Staff are also working to ensure VIRL’s contribution to the hydro line will be recovered to the full extent possible through any available avenue.
1. Latecomer Agreement While VIRL is contributing $75,000 towards the new power line, one of the considerations is that the new line will benefit subsequent development of the site. Sooke has designated the neighbouring property on Lot A for seniors housing and recreation space, with the potential for future residential and commercial development on the remaining areas of the site.
In situations where one portion of a site is developed before others, the developer and land owner can enter into a latecomer agreement.
Latecomer agreements are development finance agreements between municipalities or regional districts and land or property developers. These agreements specify off-site infrastructure necessary for development to proceed. Latecomer agreements also set the terms by which developers can recover costs for excess capacity beyond what is required for the initial development1.
Sooke and VIRL have agreed to pursue this agreement and are in the early stages of drafting a document for review and comment.
2. BC Hydro Extension Fee Refund In certain circumstances, BC Hydro will refund costs when a developer pays for an extension of an existing hydro line, as in the case with the line along Wadams Way. A refund may become available when new customers connect to the extension within five years.
Communication Plan
No impact.
Respectfully submitted,
Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Joel Adams, CPA CA Executive Director Director of Finance
1 https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/local-governments/finance/local-government-latecomer- agreements 26
Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (d)
Revised VIRL Performance Q2 2020
Recommendation The Executive Committee recommends: That the Revised VIRL Performance Q2 2020 report be received by the Board of Trustees.
Background
In 2020, Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) introduced a new quarterly performance scorecard, which is shared with the Board of Trustees in the first meeting following the end of the quarter. In March, VIRL’s operations were disrupted by the impacts of the COVID-19 global pandemic. As a result, many of the measures used in the recently designed scorecard were not able to be captured or put within context for Q2 2020. This report provides an update on the Q2 activities in lieu of the scorecard.
Q2 2020 Results
As expected, the impacts of the COVID-19 global pandemic were starkly evident in Q2 2020. However, our analysis noted a number of interesting trends:
Borrowing: Shift to Digital • The use of VIRL’s eLibrary has skyrocketed during the pandemic. There was a 61% increase in digital circulation during May, June and July. • There was no physical borrowing in April or May. However, during June, Takeout services began to open across VIRL branches and customers borrowed over 13,500 items. • Growth in physical borrowing figures is expected in Q3 as Takeout services are now available at all VIRL branches, and some locations are beginning to offer browsing and walkthrough services.
Programs • A few programs were held during this period, and all of them online. These virtual events attracted much larger audiences than our in-branch programs typically do. The average number of attendees per event jumped from 15 in Q1 to 196 in Q2 – a more than thirteen-fold increase! • The best attended event was VIRL’s One Book. One Community. book club, which saw over 400 people join in conversation to discuss Michael Christie’s Greenwood.
27 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (d)
• Since the end of June, VIRL has launched a number of high profile online events including a digital Summer Reading Club, and the Books and Beyond series. Participation in these exciting events will result in increased attendance in Q3.
Visitors/Virtual Traffic • We have noticed a trend in the use of our website. Once eLibrary users are set up with VIRL’s digital collections, they go directly into their favourite library resources rather than searching for them through our website or online catalogue.
Q2 News & Happenings
• In May, VIRL received the incredible news that its ongoing Indigenous Voices Initiative had been selected to receive the 2020 American Library Association (ALA) Presidential Citation for Innovative International Library Projects. In 2018, when the initiative launched, more than 1,300 people came out for almost 60 Elder-led programs. Attendees learned about reconciliation and residential schools, listened to creation stories, embarked on medicine walks to discover medicinal uses of local plants, participated in drum making sessions and smudging ceremonies, and much more. • In April, the Ministry of Education approved $3 million in one-time funding to public libraries and partner organizations to invest in technological upgrades, electronic collections, online programs, and other digital initiatives. Thanks to this grant, VIRL received $43,000 and launched an exciting, new, crafting database to help customers explore their creative pursuits. “I am proud to see the innovative ways our libraries continue to support and connect people who want to learn, explore and be entertained through digital resources. This funding will help bring libraries into the homes of families throughout the province,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Education. • In June, Gabriola Island staff received this lovely note from a customer who was delighted to pick books up from the take-out service: “VIRL you are my essential service! Thank you for being here.” • The library is a magical place for young minds. A visit to one of our branches can expand a child’s mind and vocabulary, and foster a lifelong love for literacy. In April, we noticed this impact on one of VIRL’s youngest library goers, Juniper. When the Port Alberni branch she frequented closed temporarily due to COVID-19, she got right to work and opened a library right in her own home. Like a true librarian, Juniper makes sure she has plenty of favourites on hand for her readers.
28 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (d)
• Letters received from writing campaign regarding reopening:
Communication Plan
This report will be reviewed by the Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees and shared internally.
Related to the Strategic Plan
Performance and outcome measures help us gauge progress and deliver on our Mission: to enrich lives and communities through universal access to knowledge, lifelong learning, and literacy.
Respectfully submitted,
Melissa Legacy, BA MLIS Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Director of Library Services and Planning Executive Director
29
Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (e)
VIRL Performance Q3 2020
Recommendation The Executive Committee recommends: That the VIRL Performance Q3 2020 report be received by the Board of Trustees.
Background
In 2020, Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) introduced a new quarterly performance scorecard, which is shared with the Board of Trustees in the first meeting following the end of each quarter. In March, VIRL’s operations were disrupted by the impacts of the COVID -19 global pandemic. As a result, many of the measures used in the recently designed scorecard were not able to be captured or put within context for Q2 or Q3 2020. This report provides an update on the Q3 activities in lieu of the scorecard.
Q3 2020 Results
As expected, the impacts of the COVID-19 global pandemic were evident in Q3 2020. However, our analysis noted a number of interesting trends:
Borrowing: Shift to Digital • The use of VIRL’s eLibrary continues to grow during the pandemic. There was a 61% increase in digital circulation up to July. The Q4 report will have more information on digital borrowing since August. • There was no physical borrowing in April or May. However, during June, Takeout services began to open across VIRL branches. In July, August and September customers borrowed over 259,000 items. • Physical material checkouts in August 2020 were at 25% of what they were in August 2019 and September 2020 checkouts were at about 37% of what they were in September 2019. • Growth in physical borrowing figures is expected in Q4 as most branches are now in Phase 3 and customers are able to browse more collections.
Programs • Program offerings during Q3 were mostly focused on Summer Reading Club (SRC) until the end of August. Other online programs include online Book Clubs, author readings and interviews, Adult Summer Reading Challenge, and virtual storytime and babytime. • In total, 53 programs were offered this quarter with an average of 30 participants.
30 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (e)
• The most popular event between July and September was the Live Author Interview with popular Young Adult authors Gilly Segal and Kimberly Jones, with 518 attendees. • The Teen Summer Reading Challenge saw 11 dedicated participants work through 99 tasks with the theme “Out of This World”. "I loved the space theme this year!" said one participant. "It's my first year doing the Teen Summer Challenge and space is one of my passions, so this was a great start for me!"
Summer Reading Club • The Summer Reading Club was held entirely online this summer and saw 955 registrations. In 2019, the Summer Reading Club had 950 registrations. • There were a number of popular YouTube events with live guests in July and August. Each week a special guest participated in an interview, workshop, or performance. Over the span of 8 weeks, these virtual shows reached over 4,000 viewers. These included a high-energy kick-off event with the Kerplunks; a Q&A with astronomer Rachel Wang; howling along with Gary Allan's wolves and much more! • 400 children joined the SRC Facebook Group with participation spanning the entire VIRL service area. • Customer comments: o "Thank you for the wonderful programming for this odd summer! Both of my sons participated online (& we all had a blast!)" o "Thanks for the club, especially this year it's been a highlight."
Q3 News & Happenings • Mid-September Altrusa International of Nanaimo resumed service from our Harbourfront branch. This service is made up of volunteers who deliver library books to seniors who are unable to visit the library. The staff at Nanaimo Harbourfront created safe work procedures to allow the volunteers to safely retrieve books and resume deliveries to clients. • At the end of September, the Nanaimo Wellington branch checked out it’s 500th Grab & Go bag! The Grab & Go bags were introduced at the branch on July 21. They are bags of reading material with a theme like Mystery Fiction or Back to School. Some are personalized if a customer fills out a short form letting staff know what they are interested in. Staff report they are very popular and flying off the shelves!
Communication Plan
This report will be reviewed by the Executive Committee and the Board of Trustees and shared internally.
31 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 5 (e)
Related to the Strategic Plan
Performance and outcome measures help us gauge progress and deliver on our Mission: to enrich lives and communities through universal access to knowledge, lifelong learning, and literacy.
Respectfully submitted,
Melissa Legacy, BA MLIS Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Director of Library Services and Planning Executive Director
32 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (a)
September 2020 Finance Report
Recommendation The Director of Finance, in consultation with the Executive Director, recommends: That the September 2020 Finance Report be received by the Board of Trustees.
Background Results to September 30, 2020 are presented for information. These reports do not follow the same format as annual audited statements as the focus is more on day to day operations. Vancouver Island Regional Library’s (VIRL) revenues are predictable and therefore accurately represented. The September financial results reflect that operational revenues are in line with expectations and expenditures are reasonable based on activities to date.
VIRL’s operating deficit to the end of September is $127,095. VIRL’s annual provincial grant was received in March, but this revenue is offset by the timing of certain expenditures that are recognized at the beginning of the year, such as insurance and software licensing, as well as the timing between incurring project spending and the associated revenue being recognized. At the end of September, project spending totaled $2,350,979, with transfers to revenue of $2,109,293. The Reserves Report includes information on the transactions within each reserve maintained by VIRL.
Statement 1 – Balance Sheet At the end of September, the balance sheet shows that VIRL continues to have healthy reserves and sufficient operational funds. Cash and investments were approximately $6.2 million at the end of August. Refundable deposits relate primarily to deposits paid to local governments as part of construction projects, as well as security deposits included in rental agreements. Accounts Receivable, Assessments relate to the monthly recognition of levy revenue. Accounts Receivable, Other relates primarily to refundable GST and other non-levy receivables. We continue to maintain a small inventory of promotional sale items, and prepaid expenses represent the portion of contracts and other items that have been paid in 2020 but relate to services in future years.
The accounts payable balance at the end of September represents our current commitments at this date. Wages and deductions payable relate to accrued salaries and benefits. MFA Long Term Debt relates to borrowings incurred for capital projects at the Nanaimo North, Nanaimo Harbourfront, Lake Cowichan, Chemainus, and Haida Gwaii branches.
33 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (a)
The surplus/equity section reflects capital accounts in order to present amortization as required by Public Sector accounting standards. Currently, approximately $23.0 million of our $53.7 million in assets have been amortized. The cost to replace those assets would be significantly above the original cost due to inflation. Long term plans need to provide funding for these replacements. We are now in year nine of a fifteen-year funding requirement. Regular replacement of our base materials puts VIRL in a good position for the future.
Statements 2, 3, 4 - Revenue and Expenditures September represents the ninth of twelve months, so target expenditures to date are 75%. Significant items affecting the operating surplus at the end of September include: • Levies to members are recognized on a monthly basis and represent 75% of the annual budget. • Provincial operating grants for the year were received in March, with the additional technology grant of $43,061 received in April. • Library Generated Revenue (fines, fees and charges, room rentals, etc.) are below budget due to suspension of in-branch services. • Total expenditures are below budget, representing 57% of total budget for the year. • Operating expenditures are on budget at 75% of total budget for the year. • Insurance is at 106% as the full cost is recognized in January. • Office, Postage, Maintenance, Travel, Training, Promotions, and Materials are all on or below budget. • Wages are just slightly above budget but still in line with expectations. • Consulting, Utilities and Branch Costs are above budget, due to timing of expenditures. • Appropriations are on budget at 75%.
As the Board is aware, in-branch services were suspended for all branches in March. To date VIRL has seen savings of approximately $250,000 on operating costs in areas such as travel, office expenses and promotions. These savings are offset by additional expenditures of approximately $43,000 required for safety equipment, additional cleaning supplies, installation of plexi-glass at all service desks, and other costs directly related to COVID. As the salaries for most employees were extended into July, and then most returned from layoff, there are no significant savings for wages and benefits.
Factoring in the year-to-date savings and expenditures discussed above, forecasted annual underspending in travel, Board expenses and other areas, and the $25,000 reduction in source deductions required to be remitted based on the Federal Temporary Wage Subsidy program, we are forecasting operating savings to the end of the year of approximately $300,000. This figure will change as more information becomes known.
34 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (a)
Conclusion VIRL’s finances indicate that results are in line with expectations and significant projects are currently either complete or underway.
Respectfully submitted,
Joel Adams, CPA CA Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Director of Finance Executive Director
35 Consolidated Balance Sheet Statement 1 (Unaudited) September 30, 2020
ASSETS Cash and Bank 6,170,525 Refundable Deposits 385,740 Accounts Receivable, Assessments 203,687 Accounts Receivable, Other 388,812 Inventory 12,896 Prepaid Expenses 203,037 Current Assets 7,364,698 Buildings 23,415,682 Accumulated Amortization - Buildings (4,018,442) 19,397,240 Furniture and Equipment 5,646,272 Accumulated Amortization - Furniture and Equipment (4,235,204) 1,411,068 Computer Equipment 4,786,131 Accumulated Amortization - Computer Equipment (4,343,142) 442,990 Vehicles 468,362 Accumulated Amortization - Vehicles (314,605) 153,756 Books 15,094,473 Accumulated Amortization - Books (8,529,020) 6,565,454 Leasehold Improvements 3,733,553 Accumulated Amortization - Leasehold Improvements (1,827,065) 1,906,488 Work in Progress 286,906 Land 295,731 Fixed Assets 30,459,633 Total Assets 37,824,331
LIABILITIES Accounts Payable 1,254,976 Reserves 6,664,018 Wages & Deductions Payable 1,587,032 Friends Groups Fundraising 15,874 Deferred Revenue Fundraising 511,454 MFA Long Term Debt 18,457,703 Total Liabilities 28,491,057
SURPLUS / EQUITY Opening Surplus (20,999,263) (20,999,263) Surplus (Deficit) Year to Date - (127,095) Current Year excluding Amortization (127,095) Total Surplus to Date (21,126,359)
Equity in Assets 30,459,633
Total Surplus - Equity in Assets 9,333,274
TOTAL Liabilities Surplus Equity 37,824,331
36 Statement of Revenue and Expenditures Statement 2 (Unaudited)
For The 9 Months Ending September 30, 2020
ANNUAL ACTUAL YTD = BUDGET YTD 75% Variance $ $ $ REVENUE Levies to Members 24,050,683 18,038,012 75% (6,012,671) Prov Rev Share and Per Capita 1,308,218 1,282,481 98% (2 5,737) General Revenue 145,000 22,980 16% (122,020) Library Generated Revenue 452,000 124,103 27% (327,897) 25,955,901 19,467,576 75% (6,488,325) Draws on Reserves 6,186,874 2,109,293 34% (4,077,581) Grant Revenue - 89,577 0% 89,577 Borrowed Funds 6,000,000 - 0% (6,000,000) 38,142,775 21,666,446 57% (16,476,329)
EXPENDITURES Operating Expenditures 25,789,531 19,442,562 75% (6,346,969) Projects and Reserve Spending 12,353,244 2,350,979 19% (10,002,265) 38,142,775 21,793,541 57% (16,349,234)
NET POSITION - (127,095) (127,095)
37 Expenditures by Nature of Expense Statement 3 (Unaudited)
For The 9 Months Ending September 30, 2020
ANNUAL ACTUAL YTD = BUDGET YTD 75% VARIANCE Wages & Benefits 14,444,868 11,011,255 76% 3,433,613 Office, Photocopier & Supplies 191,630 105,877 55% 85,753 Postage, Mail & Courier 107,500 52,518 49% 54,982 Utilities and Telecommunications 123,000 101,266 82% 21,734 Computer Costs 577,450 476,482 83% 100,968 Building and Equipment Maint. 174,434 91,625 53% 82,809 Travel and Vehicle Operation 313,500 110,899 35% 202,601 Training and Workshops 97,000 36,414 38% 60,586 Consulting and Professional Fees 195,447 326,378 167% -130,931 Insurance 125,000 132,877 106% -7,877 Promotion and Advertising 105,250 57,227 54% 48,023 Branch Discretionary Material 30,600 21,341 70% 9,259 Appropriations 3,514,468 2,643,456 75% 871,012 Branch Costs 2,800,859 2,243,808 80% 557,051 Library Materials 2,913,525 1,938,515 67% 975,010 Bank and Service Charges 75,000 75,481 101% -481 Fundraising - 5,431 0% -5,431 Grant Expenses 11,713 0% -11,713 Operating Expenditures 25,789,531 19,442,562 75% 6,346,969
Projects and Reserve Spending 12,353,244 2,350,979 19% 10,002,265
Total Expenditures 38,142,775 21,793,541 57% 16,349,234
38 Statement 4 Expenditures by Division (Unaudited) For The 9 Months Ending September 30, 2020
ANNUAL ACTUAL YTD = BUDGET YTD 75% VARIANCE
Executive Director's Office 563,083 491,290 87% 71,793 Board Expenses 90,821 29,695 33% 61,126 Systems & Networks 1,089,536 1,003,369 92% 86,167 Communication Stategic Initiative 646,107 463,578 72% 182,529 Technical Services 609,754 358,261 59% 251,493 Finance Accounting 799,778 616,151 77% 183,626 Purchasing 275,677 215,777 78% 59,899 Branch Costs 4,415,334 3,253,216 74% 1,162,119 Shipping & Receiving 321,456 211,944 66% 109,512 Employee Benefits 3,185,035 2,298,495 72% 886,539 Human Resources 505,596 329,502 65% 176,094 Materials 2,955,275 1,965,463 67% 989,812 Inter-Library Loans 4,446 2,309 52% 2,137 Library Branch Services 6,813,167 5,542,912 81% 1,270,254 Appropriations 3,514,468 2,643,456 75% 871,012 Fundraising 0 5,431 0% -5,431 Grant Expenses 0 11,713 0% -11,713 Operating Expenditures 25,789,531 19,442,562 75% 6,346,969
Projects and Reserve Spending 12,353,244 2,350,979 19% 10,002,265
Total Expenditures 38,142,775 21,793,541 57% 16,349,234
39
Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (b)
September 2020 Reserves Report
Recommendation The Director of Finance, in consultation with the Executive Director, recommends: That the September 2020 Reserves Report be received by the Board of Trustees.
Background The Board is provided with updated Reserves information each meeting. The report shows all activity in the reserves for the year to the date of preparation. Interest earned is credited to each reserve as it is received. Appropriations to reserves are recognized on a monthly basis. Transfers from reserves are recorded when projects are substantially complete.
Economic Impact The economic impact of this is in the ability of Vancouver Island Regional Library to meet its long term planning objectives.
Communication Plan None required.
Related to the Strategic Plan This report relates to our strategic priority on communication with stakeholders in general, and to the other priorities where financing to accomplish plans will affect our ability to deliver quality services, facilities and operations.
Respectfully submitted,
Joel Adams, CPA CA Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Director of Finance Executive Director
40 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (b)
Reserve Balances as at September 30, 2020
Outfitting New/Expanded Facilities 2020 Budget Actual To September 30 Previous Year Balance 2,352,409 Contributions into reserve 1,926,371 1,444,778 Interest earned 3,237 Drawdown for expenditures (3,381,874) (1,221,955) September Balance 2,578,469 This reserve is used to fund projects for new and upgraded branches as part of the Consolidated Facilities Master Plan, including construction costs, shelving, furnishings, equipment, and repayment of MFA borrowings.
Long Term Maintenance 2020 Budget Actual To September 30 Previous Year Balance 2,634,647 Contributions into reserve 758,097 568,573 Interest earned 2,525 Drawdown for expenditures (2,050,000) (770,000) September Balance 2,435,745 This reserve, first established in 2005, is funded by the levies under the CFMP. It is dedicated to expenditures related to facilities maintenance, as well as smaller renovations at branches.
Furnishings and Equipment 2020 Budget Actual To September 30 Previous Year Balance 335,440 Contributions into reserve 300,000 225,000 Interest earned 373 Drawdown for expenditures (300,000) (52,337) September Balance 508,476 This reserve is for the replacement of furnishings and equipment. Drawdowns to date are for F&E purchases at branches and administration.
Vehicle Replacement 2020 Budget Actual To September 30 Previous Year Balance 48,275 Contributions into reserve 30,000 22,500 Interest earned 66 Drawdown for expenditures (55,000) - September Balance 70,841 This reserve is for replacement of VIRL’s vehicles. It allows for replacement of vans and trucks as required. Practice is to replace at 10 years or 300,000 kilometers, whichever occurs first.
41 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (b)
Systems and Network Replacement 2020 Budget Actual To September 30 Previous Year Balance 75,213 Contributions into reserve 450,000 337,500 Interest earned 242 Drawdown for expenditures (450,000) (65,000) September Balance 347,955 This reserve is for the replacement of personal computers, workstations, circulation, and other electronic based equipment.
Integrated Library System Replacement 2020 Budget Actual To September 30 Previous Year Balance 124,396 Contributions into reserve 50,000 37,500 Interest earned 115 Drawdown for expenditures - September Balance 162,011 This reserve is for the replacement of the Integrated Library System, the basic platform upon which the Library Lending System operates from.
Human Resources 2020 Budget Actual To September 30 Previous Year Balance 70,076 Interest earned 58 September Balance 70,133 This reserve was established with approval of the Board in 2005 for the purpose ettlingof s Human Resource issues.
Compensated Absences 2020 Budget Actual To September 30 Previous Year Balance 285,736 Interest earned 236 September Balance 285,972 This reserve was established under public section accounting standards to cover costs associated with the use of accrued employee sick leave in the event of a widespread or catastrophic illness that affects VIRL staff. This reserve will only be withdrawn in the event that a significant amount of accrued sick leave is used in a short amount of time. It is not used to cover normal use of accrued sick leave. At the end of 2019, $508,627 was recorded as a liability in thefinancial statements, representing accrued sick leave earned by employees as at that date.
42 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (b)
Salaries 2020 Budget Actual To September 30 Previous Year Balance 204,134 Interest earned 281 Drawdown for expenditures - September Balance 204,416 This reserve will be used to fund salary costs in future years, including the cost of additional staffing required as part of expanding branch sizes.
TOTAL - Reserves as at September 30, 2020: $6,664,018
43
Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (c)
Facility Projects Update
Recommendation The Director of Finance, in consultation with the Executive Director, recommends: That the Facility Projects Update report be received by the Board of Trustees.
Prototype Branches
Woss • National Contracting Solutions, a Nanaimo-based company, was the successful bidder for construction. • Construction completion is currently estimated for late 2020.
Masset • Vancouver Island Regional Library’s (VIRL) consultants are working on the planning and tender documents and have coordinated various items with the Village of Masset. • VIRL is planning to tender for construction in the near future.
Sandspit • Sandspit to provide potential sites for a new branch.
Tahsis • Tahsis to provide potential sites for a new branch.
Tofino • Tofino to provide potential sites for a new branch.
44 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (c)
Urban Branches
Campbell River • VIRL worked with the Strathcona Regional District (SRD) to obtain authority for a long-term borrowing through MFA on VIRL’s behalf to support the construction costs of a new, 20,000 square foot, 2-storey branch at the site of the current building. • Campbell River is responsible for demolition and site preparation, and VIRL is responsible for construction. • A kickoff meeting between VIRL, VIRL’s architect (Low Hammond Rowe) and Campbell River was held on September 30. Items discussed included preliminary site considerations, timeline, servicing, and others. • Campbell River’s recent budget discussions have confirmed funding in 2021 for building demolition and associated site works.
Courtenay • VIRL and City of Courtenay staff have met to discuss roles and responsibilities, and visited the branch to review the site and assist with planning. • VIRL’s project team has commenced planning and is developing the various documents required.
Port Alberni • A site meeting was held in mid-February with all consultants involved. The architect has developed some preliminary floor plans and other drawings for discussion and comment. • VIRL and the architect have established a process for continuing the planning process while all parties are working remotely. • During planning, VIRL was advised of structural requirements that impact the proposed design. VIRL’s architect is factoring in these changes and will provide an updated floor plan for review.
North Saanich • The proposed site at the Panorama Centre is part of the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR). • North Saanich’s application to have the proposed branch site at the Panorama Centre be used for non-farming activity was denied. North Saanich continues to seek approval from the Agricultural Land Commission, who oversee the ALR.
Sooke / Juan de Fuca (Capital Regional District) • Island West Coast Developments (IWCD) is the general contractor for this project. • Construction commenced the week of October 19 with an estimated construction period of 12 months. • VIRL has extended the lease at the current location, so there will be no disruption of library services for Sooke.
45 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 6 (c)
Additional Projects
The 2020 Capital Plan includes funding allocated for Gold River, Port Alice, and South Cowichan. This funding is identified for furniture replacement, new equipment, upgrades to work areas or any other required interior improvements. Staff are developing how best to use these funds at each location.
Economic Impact
In 2010, the Board approved additional levies for the funding of facilities and correction of deferred maintenance issues, and affirmed this again in September 2020 with adoption of the 2021 budget.
Related to the Strategic Plan
Principle 3 – Places & Spaces: Vancouver Island Regional Library branches will be welcoming places and community hubs for the informational, inspirational, cultural, and recreational needs and interests of our diverse customers and communities. One of the ways we plan to reach this goal is by creating larger, fully accessible and welcoming branches.
It is also related to our Values – Stewardship & Accountability – in which VIRL has been entrusted with public resources, and we optimize these resources through responsible and effective management and fiscal integrity.
Respectfully submitted,
Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Joel Adams, CPA CA Executive Director Director of Finance
46 Board Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 7 (a)
2021 Nominating Committee and Call for Nominations
Recommendation The Executive Committee recommends: That the 2021 Nominating Committee and Call for Nominations report be received by the Board of Trustees; And That the 2021 AGM nominating procedure be revised to eliminate nominations from the floor and to include a deadline for all nominations received by the Board of Trustees.
Background Each January at the Annual General Meeting, the Chair, Vice Chair and Executive Committee is elected by the Board of Trustees.
As per the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board Procedural By-law, the guidelines are as follows:
Board Procedural By-law 4: Officers Election of Board Chair and Vice Chair The Chair is elected by the Board Trustees present by majority vote. In case of a tie vote, a second ballot is taken. If the tie persists, election results are determined by a draw from the second ballots by the Executive Director. The Chair serves until the next Inaugural Meeting and is eligible for re-election. Following the election of the Chair, the Board Trustees present elect a Vice Chair by majority vote. In case of a tie vote, a second ballot is taken. If the tie persists, election results are determined by a draw from the second ballots by the Executive Director. The Vice Chair serves until the next Inaugural Meeting and is eligible for re-election.
Board Procedural By-law 6: Executive Committee Membership The Executive Committee shall consist of the Board Chair, Vice Chair, Past Chair, and eight (8) Trustees elected from the appointed representation. Where the Chair and the Past Chair are the same person, nine (9) Trustees shall be elected from the appointed representation.
47 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 7 (a)
Term of Office The term of office for the Chair, Vice Chair and the members of the Executive Committee shall be from the time of election until the next Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Board Procedural By-law 7: Nominating Committee Appointments A nominating committee is appointed by the Chair at the last regular scheduled meeting of the year, for the purpose of providing a slate of nominees for presentation at the Annual General Meeting for the election of officers and the Executive Committee.
Membership Members will consist of the Chair, Vice Chair and one Trustee at large to be named by the Chair.
Timing The committee will meet by year’s end, prior to the Annual General Meeting. All Trustees wishing to stand for office should be prepared to provide a brief biography for inclusion in the report. In addition to the report of the committee, nominations from the floor of the Annual General Meeting are encouraged.
Temporary Modifications to the 2021 Nominating Process due to COVID-19
At the October 23, 2020 Executive Committee Meeting, the Trustees referred the electronic voting process back to staff to revise the 2021 AGM procedures to remove nominations from the floor and to include a deadline for all nominations to be submitted to the Nominating Committee prior to the deadline of January 8, 2021. The Nominating Committee will be entrusted with the necessity to provide a full slate of candidates for the Executive Committee, the Board Chair and Vice Chair.
The AGM voting process will be accomplished using a software platform. Each Trustee will receive an electronic voting link and submit his/her vote via the link. The software will tabulate the outcome of each ballot, while maintaining anonymity.
In order to facilitate the nominations process and report from the Nominations Committee, candidates are requested to submit their nomination form (appended to this report) to the Executive Assistant by Friday, January 8, 2021. The form will also be emailed to Trustees or can be obtained via the www.virltrustee.com website.
Respectfully submitted,
Melanie Barnum Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Parliamentarian | Divisional Manager, Finance Executive Director
Anne O’Shea Deputy Executive Director / COO
48 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 7 (b)
2021 Board of Trustees and Executive Committee Meeting Schedule
Recommendation
The Executive Committee recommends:
That the proposed 2021 Board of Trustees and Executive Committee Meeting Schedule be received by the Board of Trustees;
and
That the proposed 2021 Board of Trustees and Executive Committee Meeting Schedule be adopted by the Board of Trustees.
The proposed 2021 Board of Trustees and Executive Committee meetings schedule is as follows:
Saturday, January 30 Annual General Meeting Friday, February 26 Executive Committee Saturday, March 27 Board of Trustees Friday, April 30 Executive Committee Saturday, May 29 Board of Trustees Friday, June 25 Executive Committee – Budget Meeting Friday, August 27 Executive Committee – Budget & Regular Meeting Saturday, September 25 Board of Trustees – Budget & Regular Meeting Friday, October 29 Executive Committee Saturday, November 27 Board of Trustees
Respectfully submitted,
Mariah Patterson Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Executive Assistant Executive Director
49 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 8 (a)
VIRL in the Media
50 Maja Tait
51 / MAYOR’S REPORT: Sooke moves smoothly through B.C. Restart Plan Many projects moving forward in district
Sep. 15, 2020 8:00 p.m. / COLUMNISTS / OPINION
Maja Tait | Contributed
It’s tough to find 100 per cent agreement on anything these days, but I’m confident we all agree 2020 has been a year like no other in most of our lifetimes.
In Sooke, we’ve managed the pandemic exceptionally well so far and have moved relatively smoothly into phase three of the B.C. Restart Plan. I want to renew my thanks to everyone for doing their best to follow the provincial health officer’s directives. And I again want to send sincere good wishes to those hit hard by the impacts of challenging new normals.
We are not out of the woods. An increasing case count and the start of an unpredictable new school year means we all must double down on best practices.
I’ve noticed around town lately that more of us are wearing masks, especially in closed environments, and that’s a heartening sign that our residents understand the threat of a second wave.
One of our biggest challenges as a district this year has been to meet Dr. Henry’s request that local governments find a safe and secure indoor shelter for the unhoused. I’m pleased to report that the Sooke Region Community Health Network-
52 / run shelter on the northern edge of the town centre has been an effective stop-gap solution for Sooke since it opened in late July.
As was the case when SEAPARC Leisure Complex was a shelter this spring and later during the encampment at Ed Macgregor Park, the community has been wonderfully supportive for the most part.
Unfortunately, a handful of recent social media posts have pointed the finger at shelter residents for incidents that have occurred routinely over the years in Sooke and every other community. These include public intoxication, a few brush fires and anecdotal reports of several syringes left in parks.
Problems of this kind were common in Sooke long before we had a shelter, and they reflect a broad range of social and health issues that require oversight and intervention by Sooke RCMP officers. Blaming shelter residents is inaccurate and unfair. But if you do see anything that is unlawful, please contact the RCMP.
On other fronts, the summer passed quickly with a series of good news announcements. I was pleased to join Premier John Horgan for the opening of the expanded Westcoast Family Medical Clinic and a funding announcement for the T’Sou-ke First Nation’s community health and wellness centre. We received nearly $1 million in federal and provincial funds for an outdoor, multi-court sports box to be built in Sunriver. Construction is halfway complete on a $1.2 million expansion of the town centre sidewalk network. And, fingers crossed, we’re close to learning who the Vancouver Island Regional Library has chosen to build our new $6 million library.
53 / In addition to our regular meetings, council and I brainstormed with chief administrative officer Norm McInnis and senior district staff to identify a new slate of “now” priorities in the four-year Strategic Plan. As a result, the next six months will see us focused on the following: the finalization of a new Building Code with B.C. Energy Step Code provisions; a new communications strategy; a service- agreement review with our community partners; and the launch of two new committees — Community Economic Development and Land Use and Development, among other initiatives.
District staff, meanwhile, have a full plate as always. The Official Community Plan review is kicking off in earnest this month. The Transportations and Parks and Trails Masterplans are being finalized. Lot A development remains a significant focus, as does affordable housing, a review of the liquid waste management plan, the creation of a tree protection bylaw and the exploration of a yard waste disposal/collection program.
The coming months shape up as busy and productive ones, hopefully for us all. I trust your own lives are getting back up to speed to the best degree possible in this most unusual year. Please stay safe, be kind and, as always, wash your hands!
•••
Maja Tait is the District of Sooke mayor.
[email protected] Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
54 / The Vancouver Island Regional Library branch in Campbell River will be replaced by a new $14 million facility. Photo by Mike Davies/Campbell River Mirror Campbell River to get new $14-million library Costs shared by regional library jurisdictions, not paid for by Campbell River taxpayers alone
Sep. 16, 2020 9:30 a.m. / LOCAL NEWS / NEWS
A new library in downtown Campbell River is moving ahead.
This month, Campbell River Council affirmed its support of the project to see a two-storey, 20,000 square foot facility on the site of the current branch at 1240 Shoppers Row.
“Campbell River Council and staff have always been clear that a new library is an important piece in the city’s economic development plans and in their commitment to revitalizing downtown,” says Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board Chair, Brenda Leigh. “With the support of Council, we can formally get this project underway and construct a facility that will complement the city’s goals and provide a world-
55 / class library for the entire Strathcona region. I would like to thank everyone involved in this project for bringing us to this exciting day.”
The Victoria-based architectural firm, Low Hammond Rowe (LHR), will design the new library. VIRL has a successful history of working with LHR in the past on the design of the Nanaimo North branch and the renovation of the Sidney/North Saanich branch. The firm has also been the vision behind many exciting projects at academic institutions and other large-scale projects.
“We look forward to a new library and the new energy it will bring for our downtown,” says Mayor Andy Adams. “A new facility at this location will help address some of the current challenges we have in this area. We encourage community members to participate in future public consultation events and learn how the building design will provide a safe and welcoming environment, as has been done in other communities.”
Mayor Adams adds, “With Campbell River’s growing technology sector, the timing is right to expand library services. Contemporary libraries offer all kinds of resources, including meeting and digital activity spaces. We encourage all community members to stay tuned for opportunities to influence what’s available in our new library.”
VIRL and the city will host two shared public consultations events. The first will gather feedback and ideas on the design and features of the library; the second will present the proposed renderings and provide answers to outstanding questions. More information, including dates, locations and formats, will be provided as it becomes available.
56 / RELATED: Campbell River library ready for massive expansion
The budget of $14 million includes the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure, and site preparation. Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Strathcona Regional District, who will transfer the borrowing proceeds to VIRL. Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Campbell River taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution.
The City of Campbell River has committed to providing a no- cost lease to VIRL, demolishing the existing facility, and to servicing the site with sewage, water, drainage and CR Municipal Broadband service.
Later this year, a meeting between VIRL and the City of Campbell River will review the processes and outline the next steps for the project, including a proposed location for temporary library services during construction as well as construction start date and timeline.
Visit virl.bc.ca or campbellriver.ca for updates as the project progresses.
CAMPBELL RIVER
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57 /
New $14M library coming to Campbell River
Ethan Morneau, staff Wednesday, Sep. 16th, 2020
Vancouver Island Regional Library - Campbell River (Photo supplied by: Ethan Morneau, MyCampbellRiverNow.com staff)
A new multi-million dollar library is coming to downtown Campbell River.
City council has given the green light to a new two-storey, 20,000 square foot facility planned for the site of the current branch at 1240 Shoppers Row.
Mayor Andy Adams says the project will incorporate major elements to help with the revitalization of the downtown core.
58 “We know that there have been issues around that property and also inside that property,” Adams says.
“It’s really important, and the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) board is very supportive in ensuring the design will be a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) to have a safe and welcoming facility for people of all ages.”
Adams says he’s looking forward to the new library.
He’s encouraging community members to get involved and participate in future public consultations, to learn how the building design will provide a safe and welcoming environment.
“With Campbell River’s growing technology sector, the timing is right to expand library services. Contemporary libraries offer all kinds of resources, including meeting and digital activity spaces. We encourage all community members to stay tuned for opportunities to influence what’s available in our new library,” Adams adds.
VIRL and the city will host two shared public consultations events.
The first will gather feedback and ideas on the design and features of the library; the second will present the proposed renderings and provide answers to outstanding questions.
The Victoria-based architectural firm, Low Hammond Rowe (LHR), will design the new library.
VIRL has a successful history of working with LHR in the past on the design of the Nanaimo North branch and the renovation of the Sidney/North Saanich branch.
The library’s $14-million budget includes the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure, and site preparation.
Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Strathcona Regional District, who will transfer the borrowing proceeds to VIRL.
The costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Campbell River taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution, as VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget.
The city has committed to providing a no-cost lease to VIRL, demolishing the existing facility, and to servicing the site with sewage, water, drainage and CR Municipal Broadband service.
59 Later this year, a meeting between VIRL and the city will review the processes and outline the next steps for the project, including a proposed location for temporary library services during construction as well as construction start date and timeline.
60 9/16/2020 New library coming to downtown Campbell River | 97.3 The Eagle
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New library coming to downtown Campbell River / 97.3 The Eagle Jon De Roo Sep 16, 2020 10:08 AM
A new two-storey, 20,000 square foot library is coming to downtown Campbell River.
The new $14 million dollar branch will be constructed at the site of the current location at 1240 Shoppers Row.
The Victoria-based architectural rm, Low Hammond Rowe (LHR), will design the new library.
VIRL has a successful history of working with LHR in the past on the design of the Nanaimo North branch and the renovation of the Sidney/North Saanich branch.
VIRL and the City will host two shared public consultations events.
The rst will gather feedback and ideas on the design and features of the library; the second will
Kevin Wong / CC present the proposed renderings and provide answers to outstanding questions.
More information, including dates, locations, and formats, will be provided as it becomes available.
The budget of $14 million includes the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure, and site preparation.
Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Strathcona Regional District, who will transfer the borrowing proceeds to VIRL.
Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Campbell River taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution.
The City of Campbell River has committed to providing a no-cost lease to VIRL, demolishing the existing facility, and to servicing the site with sewage, water, drainage, and CR Municipal Broadband service.
Later this year, a meeting between VIRL and the City of Campbell River will review the processes and outline the next steps for the project, including a proposed location for temporary library services during construction as well as the construction start date and timeline.
For more information, click here.
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A group gathers on the District of Sooke's Lot A along Wadams Way in the town centre. The property is envisioned to include community and residential spaces, and will be the home of a 76-unit seniors rental complex, along with a modern branch of the Vancouver Island Library System. District of Sooke
RENTALS, WEST SHORE 76-unit affordable seniors rental complex, with youth and elder social spaces, planned for Sooke's town centre MIKE KOZAKOWSKI, CITIFIED.CA PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 Sooke council has approved preliminary plans for an affordable seniors housing complex with an elder and youth community programming facility for Wadams Way in the town centre.
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The mixed-use project, spearheaded by the Sooke Region Communities Health Network (SRCHN), will be comprised of upwards of 76 residences for individuals aged 55-plus, with ground floor activity spaces on the northeast quadrant of a municipally- owned parcel known as Lot A.
At a September 14th council meeting, elected officials approved a letter of understanding with SRCHN for the vision, and will await a study conducted by the organization to identify the types and forms of social services for youth and seniors in the Sooke region.
“This is another major step forward in developing Lot A [and] providing long overdue essential residential and social services for elders in our community,” said Sooke Mayor Maja Tait.
Budgeted to cost $22 million, the four or five-storey project will be funded primarily through the Federal/Provincial Infrastructure grant, BC Housing, and fundraising efforts in the community.
Public engagement opportunities will be scheduled once the project is further along in the planning process.
Meanwhile, plans to erect a new library in Sooke on an adjacent portion of Lot A have yet to progress towards construction following significant tendering delays.
The modern two-storey facility, part of the Vancouver Island Library System, is slated to replace a small branch situated on Anna Marie Road. Construction was initially planned to start in 2019, but delays pushed the start to 2020, although the latest groundbreaking estimate for the third quarter of this year has come and gone.
Further north along Wadams Way the Knox Centre, a 42-unit affordable rental project built by the Knox Presbyterian Church, brought much-needed below-market rental homes to Sooke upon its opening in 2019 and represents one of the first development initiatives along Wadams Way, a thoroughfare eyed for significant residential density in the coming years. C
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Track Wadams Way Seniors Housing with Citified Looking for a new-build home or commercial space in Victoria? Use Citified to research new-build condos, rentals and commercial spaces Follow Citified on Twitter STAY CONNECTED TO CITIFIED Connect with Citified on Facebook: Like Share 3.5K people like this. Be the first of your friends. Like 3.5K Follow 2,043 followers Like us on Follow us You may be interested in: Facebook on Twitter
First release sell out spurs Grand Opening condo sales event at Langford's Belmont https://victoria.citified.ca/news/wadams-way-lot-a-76-unit-affordable-seniors-rental-complex-with-youth-and-elder-social-spaces-planned-for-sooke-s-to63 … 2/4 9/21/2020 Lake Trail Students creating art and story walk honouring residential school survivors - My Comox Valley Now
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https://www.mycomoxvalleynow.com/72508/lake-trail-students-creating-art-and-story-walk-honouring-residential-school-survivors/ 64 1/7 9/21/2020 Lake Trail Students creating art and story walk honouring residential school survivors - My Comox Valley Now
Jon Gauthier, staff Sunday, Sep. 20th, 2020 14℃ CLOUDY › Powered by Vista Radio Ltd. menu
( Photo Supplied by The Comox Valley School District)
This month, Lake Trail Community Middle School will be celebrating Orange Shirt Day in a special way.
Orange Shirt Day is when Canadians acknowledge and honour thousands of Indigenous children who were taken away to residential schools across Canada.
To honour this day, the school is planning to showcase an Art and Story Walk installation in the forest around the school.
The schools Indigenous Education team collaborated with the Lake Trail Community Education Society, as well as Story Walkthrough Comox Valley Lifelong Learning Program and the Vancouver Island Regional Library to bring the idea to life.
The pages of The Orange Shirt Story will be displayed on a path throughout the forest behind Lake Trail School, Roy Stewart Morrison Nature Park, along with signs that remind us that every child matters.
Collaborative artworks made by the students will also be installed and will express and represent the kids’ feelings around the story and the history of residential schools in Canada.
https://www.mycomoxvalleynow.com/72508/lake-trail-students-creating-art-and-story-walk-honouring-residential-school-survivors/ 65 2/7 9/21/2020 Lake Trail Students creating art and story walk honouring residential school survivors - My Comox Valley Now
At the end of the walk, students will gather and meet with an Elder from the community who will 14℃ CLOUDY › speak to them about these events from our past and answer questions.
“We are really excited to share with the community our rst project this school year,” says Jenna Flint and David Dawson, Lake Trail’s Indigenous Support Workers.
Lake Trail students will experience the installation on Wednesday, September 30th and then other district schools including Nala’atsi, Courtenay’s school for students with Indigenous ancestry, will visit on October 1st between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
The Art and Story Walk will also open to the public as a self-guided walk on Thursday, October 1st from 2:00 pm– 5:00 pm.
Lake Trail Principal Gerald Fussell is inviting the community to come and experience the walk, beginning at the back of the school’s top eld, o of Lake Trail Road.
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https://www.mycomoxvalleynow.com/72508/lake-trail-students-creating-art-and-story-walk-honouring-residential-school-survivors/ 66 3/7 The Vancouver Island Regional Library branch in Campbell River will be replaced by a new $14 million facility. Photo by Mike Davies/Campbell River Mirror Campbell River to get new $14-million library Costs shared by regional library jurisdictions, not paid for by Campbell River taxpayers alone
Sep. 21, 2020 6:35 a.m. / COMMUNITY / LOCAL NEWS
A new library in downtown Campbell River is moving ahead.
This month, Campbell River Council affirmed its support of the project to see a two-storey, 20,000 square foot facility on the site of the current branch at 1240 Shoppers Row.
“Campbell River Council and staff have always been clear that a new library is an important piece in the city’s economic development plans and in their commitment to revitalizing downtown,” says Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board Chair, Brenda Leigh. “With the support of Council, we can formally get this project underway and construct a facility that will complement the city’s goals and provide a world-
67 / class library for the entire Strathcona region. I would like to thank everyone involved in this project for bringing us to this exciting day.”
The Victoria-based architectural firm, Low Hammond Rowe (LHR), will design the new library. VIRL has a successful history of working with LHR in the past on the design of the Nanaimo North branch and the renovation of the Sidney/North Saanich branch. The firm has also been the vision behind many exciting projects at academic institutions and other large-scale projects.
“We look forward to a new library and the new energy it will bring for our downtown,” says Mayor Andy Adams. “A new facility at this location will help address some of the current challenges we have in this area. We encourage community members to participate in future public consultation events and learn how the building design will provide a safe and welcoming environment, as has been done in other communities.”
Mayor Adams adds, “With Campbell River’s growing technology sector, the timing is right to expand library services. Contemporary libraries offer all kinds of resources, including meeting and digital activity spaces. We encourage all community members to stay tuned for opportunities to influence what’s available in our new library.”
VIRL and the city will host two shared public consultations events. The first will gather feedback and ideas on the design and features of the library; the second will present the proposed renderings and provide answers to outstanding questions. More information, including dates, locations and formats, will be provided as it becomes available.
68 / RELATED: Campbell River library ready for massive expansion
The budget of $14 million includes the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure, and site preparation. Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Strathcona Regional District, who will transfer the borrowing proceeds to VIRL. Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Campbell River taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution.
The City of Campbell River has committed to providing a no- cost lease to VIRL, demolishing the existing facility, and to servicing the site with sewage, water, drainage and CR Municipal Broadband service.
Later this year, a meeting between VIRL and the City of Campbell River will review the processes and outline the next steps for the project, including a proposed location for temporary library services during construction as well as construction start date and timeline.
Visit virl.bc.ca or campbellriver.ca for updates as the project progresses.
CAMPBELL RIVER
69 / 9/23/2020 Island West Coast To Build State Of The Art Library In Sooke | Business Examiner
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Island West Coast To Build State Of The Art Library In Sooke
Sep 22, 2020 | Vancouver Island, Victoria
SOOKE – The permits have been issued, the pre-planning is complete, the wait is nally over…construction is set to begin on a state-of-the-art new library for the District of Sooke. Once complete, the community will have access to more than 13,000 square feet of space to browse materials, conduct meetings, access technology, build new connections, and so much more.
“It certainly has been a journey getting to this exciting point,” says Brenda Leigh, Chair of the Vancouver Island https://businessexaminer.ca/victoria-articles/item/island-west-coast-to-build-state-of-the-art-library-in-sooke/ 70 1/5 9/23/2020 Island West Coast To Build State Of The Art Library In Sooke | Business Examiner Artistic rendering of the new Vancouver Island Regional Library Regional Library in Sooke (VIRL) Board of Trustees. “I would like to thank the community for their patience as we worked through the challenges of planning within a sustained period of intensive development on the Island, revising the design to align with the Budget and the District’s development vision, and all of the other pieces that needed to fall into place for a project of this scope. VIRL and District of Sooke sta are to be commended for never losing sight of the end goal and for steering us all to this momentous day.”
Features and amenities of the new branch:
13,412 square feet will o er a diverse collection, multiuse spaces, and more
Iconic circular design will become a cornerstone of the community
Exciting opening day collection curated for the community
Increased sta ng
Expanded hours of operation
Expanded program schedule
Vibrant children’s area
Fireplace lounge area
Laptop bar
Study space
Bookable rooms
“The District of Sooke is poised for signi cant growth and development in the years ahead,” says Maja Tait, Sooke Mayor. “From a community development perspective, we recognize that libraries are quality of life spaces that make communities more attractive, vibrant, and desirable. Despite the ongoing challenges of COVID-19, these are exciting times for the District, and the new library aligns seamlessly with our goals for the future. Our entire community will be stronger and more connected when the new Sooke library opens to the public. This is an exciting day for everyone.”
https://businessexaminer.ca/victoria-articles/item/island-west-coast-to-build-state-of-the-art-library-in-sooke/ 71 2/5 9/23/2020 Island West Coast To Build State Of The Art Library In Sooke | Business Examiner The circular design is the vision of the talented architects at HDR, a rm with extensive experience designing libraries, academic buildings, community centres, health facilities, and more. VIRL has awarded Nanaimo-based Island West Coast Developments (IWCD) as the general contractor to oversee the project. IWCD has more than 30 years’ experience managing projects for a wide variety of services and clients.
The budget of $7.5 million includes the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure, and site preparation. Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Capital Regional District who transferred the borrowing proceeds to VIRL. Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Sooke taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution.
Looking ahead, the next step is to work with IWCD on a construction timeline, which will be shared with the public when it becomes available. The latest news and updates about this project will be posted in the Capital Projects area of virl.bc.ca.
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https://businessexaminer.ca/victoria-articles/item/island-west-coast-to-build-state-of-the-art-library-in-sooke/PREVIOUS NEXT 72 3/5 9/23/2020 New day for Sooke: library construction to begin | Island Social Trends
New day for Sooke: library construction to begin By Island Social Trends - September 22, 2020
Tuesday September 22, 2020 | SOOKE, BC
by Mary Brooke, editor | Island Social Trends
The permits have been issued, the pre-planning is complete, the wait is finally over… construction is set Architect's rendering of the new Sooke Library exterior (when the construction start was to begin on a state-of-the-art new library for the District of scheduled for Fall 2018). Sooke.
Once complete, the community will have access to more than 13,000 sq ft of space to browse materials, conduct meetings, access technology, build new connections, and so much more.
“It certainly has been a journey getting to this exciting point,” says Brenda Leigh, Chair of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board of Trustees.
“I would like to thank the community for their patience as we worked through the challenges of planning within a sustained period of intensive development on the Island, revising the design to align with the Budget and the District’s development vision, and all of the other pieces that needed to fall into place for a project of this scope,” said VIRL Board Chair Brenda Leigh. Leigh (Strathcona rep)
She commends VIRL and District of Sooke staff for not losing sight of the end goal and for steering the project to completion.
Features and amenities of the new branch:
District of Sooke Councillor Jeff Bateman sits on the VIRL board. https://islandsocialtrends.com/new-day-for-sooke-library-construction-to-begin/ 73 1/3 9/23/2020 New day for Sooke: library construction to begin | Island Social Trends 13,412 square feet will offer a diverse collection, multiuse spaces, and more Iconic circular design will become a cornerstone of the community Exciting opening day collection curated for the community Increased staffing Expanded hours of operation Expanded program schedule Vibrant children’s area Fireplace lounge area Laptop bar Study space Bookable rooms
District of Sooke through a decade:
There has been public consultation, many meetings and various attempts to organize the new library, with much of the challenge being land availability (as a donation asked of the District of Sooke by VIRL) as well as the town looking at its own future directions.
Starting around 2009, now four District of Sooke councils have had the new Sooke Library on their drawing board.
The existing library on Anna Marie Road will continue operating in the meantime.
“The District of Sooke is poised for significant growth and development in the years ahead,” says Sooke Mayor Maja Tait.
“From a community development perspective, we recognize that Children’s book section at the libraries are quality of life spaces that make communities more current Sooke Library [West attractive, vibrant, and desirable,” said Tait in a release from VIRL Shore Voice News photo, today. January 2019]
“Despite the ongoing challenges of COVID- 19, these are exciting times for the District, and the new library aligns seamlessly with our goals for the future. Our entire community will be stronger and more connected when the new Sooke library opens to the public. This is an exciting day
https://islandsocialtrends.com/new-day-for-sooke-library-construction-to-begin/ 74 2/3 9/23/2020 New day for Sooke: library construction to begin | Island Social Trends for everyone,” Tait was quoted in today’s District of Sooke release. Mayor Maja Tait (at the UBCM Custom design: convention in Victoria, September The circular design is the vision of the 22, 2020) talented architects at HDR, a firm with extensive experience designing libraries, academic buildings, community centres, health facilities, and more. VIRL has awarded Nanaimo-based Island West Coast Developments (IWCD) as the general contractor to oversee the project. IWCD has more than 30 years’ experience managing projects for a wide variety of services and clients.
The budget of $7.5 million includes the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure, and site preparation. Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Capital Regional District who transferred the borrowing proceeds to VIRL.
Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Sooke taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution.
Completion date to be determined:
Looking ahead, the next step is to work with IWCD on a construction timeline, which will be shared with the public when it becomes available. The latest news and updates about this project will be posted in the Capital Projects area of virl.bc.ca
Island Social Trends – insights into stuff that matters.
https://islandsocialtrends.com/new-day-for-sooke-library-construction-to-begin/ 75 3/3 An artists rendition of the proposed new Vancouver Island Regional Library building in Sooke. (Vancouver Island Regional Library) New Sooke library project awarded to Nanaimo-based company No construction timeline announced by contractor
SOOKE NEWS STAFF / Sep. 23, 2020 11:30 a.m. / LOCAL NEWS / NEWS
The contract to build a new 13,000-square-foot library in Sooke has been awarded to a Nanaimo company.
Island West Coast Developments will build the Vancouver Island Regional Library’s newest location on one-acre of a five-acre lot along Wadams Way.
The $7.5-million building will have a circular design, with a fireplace lounge area and a children’s area. In addition, there will be increased staffing, expanded hours of operation, and more scheduled programs.
76 / ADVERTISEMENT
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“It certainly has been a journey getting to this exciting point,” said Brenda Leigh, VIRL board chair.
“I would like to thank the community for their patience as we worked through the challenges of planning within a sustained period of intensive development on the Island, revising the design to align with the budget and the district’s development vision, and all of the other pieces that needed to fall into place for a project of this scope.”
The VIRL board made slight adjustments to keep its design within budget, including removal of a balcony on the rear of the building, replacing exterior siding, and other small modifications.
Sooke has been looking to replace their aging library for the past decade, but the process had been delayed time after time. 77 / “Our entire community will be stronger and more connected when the new Sooke library opens to the public,” Sooke Mayor Maja Tait said in a release.
“The District of Sooke is poised for significant growth and development in the years ahead. Despite the ongoing challenges of COVID-19, these are exciting times for the district, and the new library aligns seamlessly with our goals for the future. This is an exciting day for everyone.”
The construction timeline has yet to be announced by Island West Coast Developments.
– with files from Kevin Laird
READ MORE: Sooke library project trimmed to meet budget
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78 / 9/28/2020 Shovels in the ground are once again promised for the new Sooke Library – Sooke PocketNews
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Shovels in the ground are once again promised for the new Sooke Library September 25, 2020
In March 2017, the announcement was made that a six million dollar library building is coming to Sooke, and will be ready to swing open their doors by the time the lease closes on the old library (December 31, 2018). Okay. That didn’t happen then. But, now, they saying shovels will soon be in the ground. ETA? Don’t know. The next step (see bottom of article) is to set a “construction timeline” to be shared when available, at a later date.
The permits have been issued, the pre-planning is complete, the wait is finally over…construction is set to begin on a state-of-the-art new library for the District of Sooke. Once complete, the community will have access to mo than 13,000 square feet of space to browse materials, conduct meetings, access technology, build new connections, and so much more.
Features and amenities of the new branch:
13,412 square feet will offer a diverse collection, multiuse spaces, and more https://sooke.pocketnews.ca/shovels-in-the-ground-are-once-again-promised-for-the-new-sooke-library/ 79 1/3 9/28/2020 Shovels in the ground are once again promised for the new Sooke Library – Sooke PocketNews Iconic circular design will become a cornerstone of the community Exciting opening day collection curated for the community Increased staffing Expanded hours of operation Expanded program schedule Vibrant children’s area Fireplace lounge area Laptop bar Study space Bookable rooms
The circular design is the vision of the talented architects at HDR, a firm with extensive experience designing libraries, academic buildings, community centres, health facilities, and more. VIRL has awarded Nanaimo-based Island West Coast Developments (IWCD) as the general contractor to oversee the project. IWCD has more than 30 years’ experience managing projects for a wide variet of services and clients.
The budget of $7.5 million includes the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure, and site preparation. Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Capital Regional District who transferred the borrowing proceeds to VIRL. Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Sooke taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution.
Looking ahead, the next step is to work with IWCD on a construction timeline, which will be shared with the public when it becomes available. The latest news and updates about this project will be posted in the Capital Projects area of virl.bc.ca.
Related
Shovels in the ground are once again promised for the new Sooke Library Sneak peak at the new round library REMINDER: Sooke Library Open House showcases designs for new library building Sooke Library Open House showcases designs for new library building Sooke Library Update: Site plans ready to be finalized General Lot A update: Logs sold to only bidder, no new news on new Library timeline Sooke considers lumber funds for local non-profits New Sooke Library timeline shifts but remains VIRL’s top priority Clearing of Lot A on Wadams (Photos) You know you’re in a small town when … Lot A brush clearing costs up to $50k; doesn’t include garbage or structure removal Sooke Councillor Parkinson pushes for timely fire-safe maintenance on Lot A VIRL hosts consultation for public input on new library Community input wanted: Sooke Library public consultation VIRL unanimously approves downtown Sooke library branch Lot A Concept Plans for the new Sooke Library
https://sooke.pocketnews.ca/shovels-in-the-ground-are-once-again-promised-for-the-new-sooke-library/ 80 2/3 Maple Bay author John Ringstead has just released his first novel. (Submitted photo) Arts and Entertainment column: Art, film, books and music all on tap in Cowichan Here are a few of the things going on in Cowichan's arts community.
ANDREA RONDEAU / Oct. 1, 2020 12:00 a.m. / ENTERTAINMENT
What could a public art gallery in the Cowichan Valley look like?
The Cowichan Valley Public Art Gallery group aims to answer that question as it unveils its vision statement Saturday, Oct. 3, at 1 p.m. at the Green Door in Duncan.
“We aspire to build a 25,000 to 35,000 square foot Public Art Gallery in the Cowichan Valley. The purpose of the gallery will be to host traveling and local exhibits of world-class contemporary art in a building that will be unique on Vancouver Island,” the group says.
81 / While no site or design has been chosen, the group will show a series of conceptual renderings to give people an idea of the possibilities of such a project.
Aside from exhibit space, the group sees the building including an arts centre with studio and classroom space, as well as a gift shop and coffee bar.
For the full picture head down on Saturday, or check out cvpublicartgallery.ca
•••
The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre is forging ahead, in spite of the curtailment of their usual business by the COVID-19 pandemic.
On Tuesday, Sept. 29 the centre launched a streaming short film called Standing By.
“Filmed at the Cowichan Peforming Arts Centre, the movie explores the many mixed feelings of artists during COVID-19,” a press release about the film states.
Standing By has been created and performed by Cowichan-raised actor Nicole Ratjen.
“The film, clocking in at just under five minutes, uses the incredible dimensions of the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre to explore the feelings of anger, sadness, rage, confusion, and hope that the onset of the pandemic provoked in artists like Ratjen,” the release says.
“I am usually onstage 10 times a week in Berlin,” says Ratjen. “But the pandemic stopped me in my traps and I found myself back home for seven months, sheltering in place on my parent’s property; I wanted to create something that expressed all of the feelings that were inside of me, and having grown up performing on the stage at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, I wanted to explore this beautiful space that found itself unexpectedly dark and empty. I wanted to climb the walls, touch the curtains, and connect with the space.”
After receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts from York University in Toronto specialising in Devised Theatre and Theatrical Design, Ratjen furthered her training in Europe. She attended L’École Internationale de Théâtre Jacques Lecoq in Paris and alongside the cours professional she participated in the Laboratory Study of Movement (LEM), the press release said.
82 / As an actor and director, Ratjen has worked on production throughout Canada, across Europe and around Australia. She continues to develop and create new works for the screen and stage.
Viewers can stream the short film at facebook.com/cowichanpac or www.cowichanpac.ca
•••
The Duncan branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library is now open for walkthrough service. It joins the South Cowichan library branch in offering the increased service.
“It is so exciting to see our Cowichan branch opening up for walkthrough service,” says Melissa Legacy, VIRL’s director of Library Services and Planning, in a press release. “We know from experience that our communities are responding very well to this limited in-branch service and I have no doubt that our Cowichan branch will provide important connections and access to community members.”
Part of VIRL’s phased approach to the resumption of library services, the library offers a walkthrough area to browse a limited collection, self-checkout, fee payments, and grab and go bags.
Walkthrough hours are Monday to Friday, 1-4 p.m. Materials can be returned Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and takout is still available Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon.
Customers who would like to access the limited browsing collection must have their library cards with them and use the self-check-out machines in the branch, officials said. The branch will continue to offer takeout services for those who would prefer to use this service.
“For everyone’s safety, customers are asked to adhere to all posted safety information and the directives of staff. During this first phase of walkthrough service, there will be no access to the public washrooms, computers, or seating area,” the press release warned.
Read more below
83 / experience! We are excited to offer the following three options for your enjoyment in the coming months both as streaming concerts for you to watch at home with friends or live in-person concerts for 50 people.”
First in the way of streaming concerts is a Sunday Brunch Concert Series, which will be aired from Oct. 4 through Nov. 20. This series of 60-minute concerts is recorded from the limited-audience garden concerts that were offered last summer.
The second series is called Symphony from Your Sofa.
“Join me as I host our upcoming 2020-2021 season entitled Symphony from Your Sofa, featuring our VIS musicians in six one hour, live-streamed performances,” Simard says. “This exciting season includes masterworks and discoveries from Schubert to Strauss, from Spain, Germany, France to Canada, with fun and unusual instrument combinations involving all of our orchestral family. Full season details will be released on Oct. 1!”
The live concerts will be limited to 50 people each and will take place in Nanaimo, Courtenay and Campbell River. The concerts will be announced and go on sale on Oct. 1.
For more information check out vancouverislandsymphony.com
84 / VIRL is also now offering inter-branch deliveries of materials to provide customers with access to the entire collection, and an expanded suite of virtual programs and services. For more information about the services and resources offered at VIRL, visit virl.bc.ca.
••• TrySafeP
And on the subject of something to read…
“Maple Bay author and musician John Ringstead has just released Glynwold, the first of his four-book series,” said a press release for the new novel. What’s it about?
“Inspired by John’s childhood in the shadow of the historic, walled city of Chester, England, John’s medieval teen protagonists discover secret tunnels that lead them to forbidden lands. Dogged by an unscrupulous spider-loving evil mastermind, the teens will seek refuge with those they were taught to trust, only to be betrayed by them. Battles and assassinations force a bruising realism onto their once ripe idealism,” the release describes.
Ringstead is a retired high school history teacher and wanted to give a youthful, human touch to this allegorical take on history that reflects the age-old political struggles that continue today.
His first book is available through Amazon.
•••
If it’s music you want, look no further than the Vancouver Island Symphony.
A press release from Artistic Director Pierre Simard says, “I am pleased to announce that although we cannot congregate as we normally would to enjoy a VIS performance, we continue to look at ways we can bring you a VIS
85 / Work is being done to install a canopy on the Chemainus library to provide protection from the elements. The work was intended to be completed months ago, but was delayed due to COVID. (Photo by Don Bodger) Takeout service applies to the Chemainus Library Bundles can be put together based on subject preferences
DON BODGER / Oct. 4, 2020 12:30 p.m. / LOCAL NEWS
Whoever thought we’d see the day that takeout service would apply to our local library?
But here we are with COVID-19 and everything is strange in trying to maintain some form of normalcy in our lives. The Chemainus Library’s grand opening in March was just a week before shutdowns because of the pandemic, but it eventually opened up again and staff are doing their best now to serve the needs of customers.
“We have some exciting things happening at our local library,” noted Jude Cooper, the information technician of the Vancouver Island Regional Library’s Chemainus Branch.
86 / She pointed out the library has an abundance of Grab and Go bags that hold 4-5 titles and feature the many different fiction genres. Book Bundle forms are available for customers to request personal non-fiction items on specific topics or genres.
“In addition, I have tech help forms available too – and this enables me to call the customers at home and give them one-on-one tutoring of our eResources or other issues they may be having,” Cooper indicated.
The Chemainus Library is now offering customized Book Bundles (Non-fiction and Fiction) to go. Customers can come down during Take Out Hours and fill out the form at the library. They can also email or call Cooper directly.
“I then put together a bundle based on their subject preferences with items at the Branch,” she explained.
A more detailed explanation of Takeout Service is probably pertinent and here it is:
Customers can browse the entire collection at search.virl.bc.ca, place holds, then go to the Chemainus branch with their library card when holds are ready for pick- up.
What you can do
• Access the entire collection at search.virl.bc.ca.
• Pick up materials without safety protocols in place.
• Return library materials during Takeout Service hours.
What’s not available 87 / • Browsing in-branch or accessing the interior of the building.
• Self-checkout.
• Self-serve holds.
• Fine payments – not in effect.
• Public computers and printing.
• Washrooms.
• In-branch programs.
• Meeting and study rooms.
• In-person information desk services.
How customers and staff are being kept safe
• Ensuring proper physical distancing.
• Disinfecting all touch points between pick-ups.
• Quarantining all returned materials.
Current ‘Take Out Hours’ are: Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m.-noon, 2-4 p.m. and 6-7 p.m.; and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-noon and 2-4 p.m. The library is closed Sundays and Mondays.
The hours are designed for customers to pick up requested items. The book drop is open for returns at the back of the building.
It is hoped to have limited “walk through” service sometime in
October. 88 / BOOKS CORONAVIRUS
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The Chemainus library is among the Vancouver Island Regional Library branches that now has takeout service available. (Photo by Don Bodger)
89 / Vancouver Island Regional Library is presenting an online reading by Saskatchewan poet laureate Bruce Rice on Oct. 27. He will read from his new book ‘The Vivian Poems: Street Photographer Vivian Maier.’ (Photo courtesy Gary Robins/Available Light Studio) Vancouver Island Regional Library presents reading by Saskatchewan poet laureate Bruce Rice will read from new book about a photographer who found posthumous success
JOSEF JACOBSON / Oct. 7, 2020 2:30 p.m. / ENTERTAINMENT / LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT
After a six-month delay due to COVID-19, Saskatchewan’s poet laureate is finally presenting his latest work to a Vancouver Island audience.
Bruce Rice was supposed to read from his new book of poetry, The Vivian Poems: Street Photographer Vivian Maier, at the Nanaimo Harbourfront Library in April, but by then all Vancouver Island Regional Library branches were closed in response to COVID-19. That reading will instead take place on Oct. 27, when VIRL hosts Rice via the online videoconferencing platform Zoom. 90 / Rice’s book examines the life and work of Vivian Maier, a prolific Chicago street photographer whose work was discovered after the contents of her abandoned storage lockers were bought at auction in 2007. Two years later, shortly after her death in a nursing home at 83, her photographs, many depicting urban scenes from the ’50s and ’60s, gained popularity and acclaim after being posted online.
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“She passed away and within two or three years the individual prints were selling for over $5,000 and basically [she] saw nothing of it,” Rice said. “So partly there’s this tragic aspect to the story, but on the other hand you have this massive work that is really quite moving and quite important because she was documenting the times when the American dream was going through a whole change.”
91 / When he heard about Maier and her story Rice said he was “immediately drawn in.” He said he appreciated that unlike other street photographers like Dorothea Lange, whose famous Depression-era photographs were commissioned by the U.S. government, Maier was capturing ordinary life “without necessarily an agenda.”
“A lot of what she was doing was actually documenting her daily life as she was photographing,” Rice said. “So it wasn’t quite the same as sending a photographer out there to photograph ‘the other,’ if you want to put it that way, but you get the sense she’s actually documenting her own life.”
Rice often writes from the perspectives of characters, and in The Vivian Poems he imagines Maier’s thoughts about her art practice as she left very little commentary on her own work. Because Maier worked for 40 years as a nanny and kept her photographs to herself, Rice said a lot of attention is paid to the “mythology” around her and in his book Maier challenges some of those assumptions as well. He said he’s more interested in “the character of the artist.”
“Let’s put the story aside. Let’s talk about the art and what that tells us and, actually, I believe that it tells us a lot about her…” Rice said “As I say in the introduction, she might even be offended by my book but I’ve done as much as I can to really pay attention to the art itself. The whole book is about her taking us into the art from the perspective of an artist.”
WHAT’S ON … Bruce Rice Zoom reading and discussion takes place Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. The meeting link is https://virl.zoom.us/j/8026322551, the meeting ID is 802 632 2551.
92 / 10/8/2020 Cowichan libraries adapt to COVID-19 — The Discourse.
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The Cowichan Lake branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library is now o ering takeout service. (Photo by Jacqueline Ronson)
Cowichan Valley Libraries in Cowichan expand services after pandemic shutdown Vancouver Island libraries are nding new ways to reach community members, online and in person.
Jacqueline Ronson October 7, 2020
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https://thediscourse.ca/cowichan-valley/cowichan-virl-libraries-open-covid 93 1/5 10/8/2020 Cowichan libraries adapt to COVID-19 — The Discourse. Libraries in the Cowichan region are now o ering new ways to access books, materials and servicesAbout while us keepingCurious sta in Cowichan and the communityCowichan safe. This Week Support Us
“A lot of peopleLog in still don’t know that there’s anything to o er at the library,” says Annette Van Koevering, manager of the Cowichan and Cowichan Lake branches of the Vancouver Island Regional Library. “We keep getting phone calls, emails, going, ‘Are you guys opening? Are you guys doing anything? Is your book drop open?’ It’s like, yes, yes and yes!’
Branches are o ering takeout service, limited walkthrough service, or a combination of the two.
To access takeout service, place a hold using your online account and you will be noti ed when it is ready to pick up. Books can also be returned during takeout hours.
Walkthrough service allows you to browse a limited selection of books, movies, kids materials and more, says Van Koevering. Be sure to bring your library card so you can use the self-checkout machines.
For now, the libraries are not charging late fees on overdue materials. But VIRL strongly encourages bringing materials back for others to enjoy.
Additionally, the library has expanded online o erings during the COVID-19 pandemic, Van Koevering says. There are e-books, audio books, music and movies available. There are many educational resources, including help to learn a language or new skill. Links to online services can be found on the VIRL homepage.
Library groups are now taking place online, too, including story times, book clubs and more. Check the calendar to see what’s on.
What’s available at my branch? Right now the Cowichan branch, in Duncan, is open for walkthrough and takeout service. The South Cowichan branch, in Mill Bay, is open for walkthrough service. The Cowichan Lake, Ladysmith and Chemainus branches are open for takeout.
Van Koevering recommends checking your branch website or Facebook page for the latest information and hours. https://thediscourse.ca/cowichan-valley/cowichan-virl-libraries-open-covid 94 2/5 10/8/2020 Cowichan libraries adapt to COVID-19 — The Discourse. “There’s things happening and changing every single day.” About us Curious in Cowichan Cowichan This Week Support Us The library is looking to o er more as well. In the next couple of weeks, there should be some branchesLog in o ering public computer access, Van Koevering says.
Links to branch information Visit VIRL Cowichan (Duncan) on its website and on Facebook. Visit VIRL South Cowichan (Mill Bay) on its website and on Facebook. Visit VIRL Cowichan Lake (Lake Cowichan) on its website and on Facebook. Visit VIRL Chemainus on its website and on Facebook. Visit VIRL Ladysmith on its website and on Facebook.
We need strong, local news to help us get through this The Discourse Cowichan is lucky to rely on community members, not local advertising, to support our work. That means, unlike newspapers impacted by COVID-19, we’re not reducing coverage when our community needs us most. We’re digging deeper, covering public health measures, telling stories in service of our most vulnerable, and supporting local businesses and nonpro ts where we can.
Support The Discourse Cowichan
https://thediscourse.ca/cowichan-valley/cowichan-virl-libraries-open-covid 95 3/5 The Vancouver Island Region Library wants residents’ views on expanding branch operating hours in Sooke. (Pixabay photo) Library tries to get read on users with online survey Hours of operation a focal point
SOOKE NEWS STAFF / Oct. 8, 2020 4:00 p.m. / COMMUNITY
Do you want library hours better suited to your needs?
Now’s your chance to speak up, something the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) is encouraging as it considers increasing its hours at the Sooke branch.
The VIRL is seeking feedback from residents on what days they prefer and hours of operation at the branch.
The online survey is at https://bit.ly/3jkhULk until Nov. 15.
The VIRL is planning to build a new state-of-the-art library in Sooke on Wadams Way. Construction will start soon.
96 / If you have any questions about the survey or the new branch, please email branch manager Peter Maguire at [email protected].
ALSO READ: Construction contract eyed for new Sooke library
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97 / Providence Farm's executive director Tracy Parow holds up a pumpkin from the farm's pumpkin patch. (Submitted photo) Business notes: Providence Farm’s pumpkin patch opened for business Do This To Repel Rodents
A look at what's happening in Cowichan's New ultrasonic device repels pests business community (rodents, spiders, roaches, etc) away from your home. ROBERT BARRON / Oct. 9, 2020 12:00 a.m. / NEWS
The Providence Farm pumpkin patch is open again this year.
The farm’s executive director Tracy Parow said there’s a pumpkin for everyone and visitors will have the fun of choosing it right in the field where it grew.
98 / “Our pumpkin patch is big enough for folks to safely walk in search of the perfect pumpkin,” she said.
“The patch is open this year Oct. 7-31, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The pumpkin patch is accessible from Donnay Drive only. In addition, we will be hosting the masked hay rides on Oct. 23 and 24, also from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., first come first served.”
Providence Farm is a therapeutic community and charity whose mission is the stewardship of 400 acres of land and the delivery of programs for people with mental health issues.
••••
The Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce is looking for people to serve on its board of directors in 2020-21.
Directors lead the strategic direction of the organization and play a vital role in supporting and advocating for the Cowichan business community.
“If you have energy and ideas, if you want to create positive impact in your community and contribute to the success of the chamber, if you have five to seven hours per month to contribute, and if you are a chamber member in good standing, we would love to have a chat about the opportunity to serve on our board of directors,” said the chambers executive director Sonja Nagel.
“We will be accepting applications until Oct. 16. The chamber’s AGM will be held on Nov. 24 where there will be an election for the board of directors. At this time, we are considering a hybrid AGM (in-person and Zoom).”
Call 250-748-1111 or email [email protected] to learn more and what the role of the director entails.
••••
99 / The Coastal Community Credit Union is extending a helping hand to non-profit community organizations across the islands.
From losing expected funding to quickly evolving their service delivery, these organizations have had to navigate a very difficult landscape in the last six months during the COVID-19 pandemic.
To help continue their valuable community work, the credit union decided to redesign its Building Healthier Community Fund.
Renamed the Relief and Resiliency Fund, the retooled program will help non- profits through the pandemic as they adjust to the “new normal.”
The initiative offers one-time funds to community organizations who are facing new needs as a result of COVID-19. Applications are now open and people can go to cccu.ca for more information.
“We know how far reaching the benefits are of working together to strengthen communities,” said Allyson Prescesky, senior manager of community and communications for the credit union.
“This crisis has had a huge impact on so many organizations and people. It’s our responsibility and our vision to find ways to help.”
•••••
A bottle drive is being held on Oct. 11, with proceeds going to Habitat for Humanity.
Organizer Pam Mitchell said bottles will be collected in the parking lot of the Duncan ReStore between 10 a.m. and noon on that day.
She said she has created accounts for Habitat for Humanity at the Cobble Hill and Duncan Return-It centres.
100 / “Bottles can be dropped off at these centres any time, and we are hoping for donations and community support with collection,” Mitchell said.
“I am also hosting a bottle drive on Oct. 9 at Mill Bay Nature School and at the Nanaimo ReStore on Oct. 25. I am working collaboratively with other families who have also been awarded homes in Duncan by Habitat for Humanity. This fundraiser is helping us to earn volunteer hours that go toward the 500 volunteer hours we require for home ownership.”
•••••
The Vancouver Island Regional Library is thrilled to partner with the Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area to offer an exciting new social distance activity for children and families.
This month, from Oct. 24-31, people are invited take part in a fun Halloween “Storywalk”.
A storywalk is a series of large boards with blown up pages of a story on them.
Participants are invited to read the story Scary, Scary Halloween by Eve Buntin and Jan Brett displayed on boards in the windows of participating businesses, while you enjoy the downtown area.
The Halloween story includes 17 boards and each board is 12 feet by 22 feet.
Usually these boards are attached to posts that are placed in the ground.
Families can then read a bit of the book as they walk around downtown.
There are 17 businesses in Duncan’s downtown core participating in Storywalk, including Peacock Photos, Martin’s Menswear, Alley Cat Hair Design and the Red Balloon Toy Store.
101 / “We are thrilled to partner with Downtown Duncan BIA,” says Nariel Davis, the children’s librarian at the Cowichan branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library.
“We think this is a great opportunity for children and parents to enjoy reading together while also enjoying a coffee, shopping, and other great activities in downtown Duncan,” says Amanda Vance, executive director of the DDBIA.
•••••
Business Development Canada is hosting a Virtual Small Business Week starting Oct. 18.
Members may find useful certain webinars including “get started with eCommerce” on Oct. 21 at 3 p.m., or “how to make the holidays count for retail entrepreneurs” at 2 p.m. on Oct. 22.
People can register for these events at bdc.ca/sbwevents
COWICHAN VALLEY CITIZEN
102 / The new Sooke library includes an expanded children’s area. (Vancouver Island Regional Library) Construction set to begin on new Sooke library The new facility is expected to open in spring 2022
KEVIN LAIRD / Oct. 14, 2020 4:05 p.m. / LOCAL NEWS / NEWS
Construction of a new library in Sooke begins Monday (Oct. 19), marking a milestone for the facility that Vancouver Island Regional Library board chair Brenda Leigh says has been “a long time coming.”
The two-storey building on Wadams Way between Anna Marie and Townsend roads will house a 14,412-square-foot library, including a children’s area, fireplace lounge, laptop bar and community space.
“We have a clear vision for the future development and growth of our community,” Sooke Mayor Maja Tait said. “A vibrant and modern library was an important piece in our plans. I have full confidence that with this library, we are
103 / setting the wheels in motion for ongoing and sustainable development of Lot A, the Wadams Way corridor, and the surrounding area.”
The $7.5-million budget for the library encompasses all aspects of the project, including construction, furniture, and technology infrastructure. Also, there will be increased staffing, expanded hours of operation, and more scheduled programs.
The library board made slight adjustments to keep the project on budget, including removing a balcony on the rear of the building, replacing exterior siding, and other small modifications.
Sooke has been looking to replace its aging library for more than a decade, but the project has been delayed time after time.
“As someone who has been working on this file for years, there were times when I wondered whether we would ever get to this day,” said Rosemary Bonanno, VIRL’s executive director.
“This new library will evolve and complement Sooke’s ongoing transition into a destination of choice for people living and visiting south of the Malahat.”
Island West Coast Development is the library, construction contractor. It will begin by preparing site surveys, clearing trees and brush, cutting in an access road, and mobilizing construction sites.
The new library is expected to open in spring 2022.
104 / 10/15/2020 Construction to start next week on Sooke's new library | Times Colonist
Construction to start next week on Sooke's new library
Carla Wilson / Times Colonist OCTOBER 14, 2020 05:22 PM
After months of planning, negotiations and ne-tuning the design, construction on the new library on Wadams Way in Sooke is set to start. VIA VANCOUVER ISLAND REGIONAL LIBRARY
CARLA WILSON
Times Colonist
Construction is slated to start next week on Sooke’s new state-of-the-art library.
Workers will carry out site surveys, clear trees and brush, build an access road, and get the Wadams Way property ready for construction of the 13,000-square-foot building, which features an eye-catching circular design.
WEBSITE DIRECTIONS
“For many in the community, this day has been a long time coming,” said Brenda Leigh, chairwoman of the Vancouver Island Regional Library board.
“In a year like no other, it is especially heartening to move forward with such a well-needed and long-awaited community amenity.”
The new $7.5-million library is expected to open in spring 2022. It will feature multi-use spaces, a laptop bar, study space, a replace-lounge area and a children’s area, and will o er longer hours and additional sta .
“We have a clear vision for the future development and growth of our community,” Sooke Mayor Maja Tait said in a statement.
“A vibrant and modern library was an important piece in our plans. I have full con dence that with this library, we are setting the wheels in motion for ongoing and sustainable development of Lot A, the Wadams Way corridor, and surrounding area.”
The Vancouver Island Regional Library services a large area, including Sooke and Sidney north to Port Hardy, Haidi Gwaii and the Central Coast.
It has a total of 38 branches. Since 2011, the system has either completed substantial renovations on or rebuilt 13 branches.
Sooke’s library was designed by HDR architects, which has extensive experience designing libraries, academic buildings and other community facilities.
Nanaimo-based Island West Coast Developments is the general contractor.
https://www.timescolonist.com/news/local/construction-to-start-next-week-on-sooke-s-new-library-1.24220654 105 1/2 10/15/2020 Construction to start next week on Sooke's new library | Times Colonist The $7.5-million budget covers the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure and site preparation, the library said on its website.
Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Capital Regional District, which transferred the borrowing proceeds to regional library system.
Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the cost of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Sooke taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution, the library said.
© 2020 Copyright Times Colonist
https://www.timescolonist.com/news/local/construction-to-start-next-week-on-sooke-s-new-library-1.24220654 106 2/2 Exceptional Seniors Nominated for VERA Award 2020 Posted by INSPIRED Staff Date: October 20, 2020 Leave a comment 43 views
Andrée Galbraith Nominated by: Mental Health Recovery Partners, S. Vancouver Island
Beverly Unger Nominated by: Victoria Symphony
Donna Zwiers Nominated by: Saanich Volunteer Services Society
Eleanore Arkesteyn Sendial Program, Thrifty Foods, Sidney Nominator: Anne Trueman, Staff Lead for the Sendial Program, Sidney Thrifty Foods
Margaret (Marg) Palmer Agencies: The Land Conservancy – Abkhazi Garden, Kildonen (De Mezey Memorial Abbeyfield House), Oak Bay Heritage Foundation, the Victoria Horticultural Society. Nominator: Cherie Miltimore, Volunteer Coordinator at Abkhazi Garden
Janice Poulin Organizations: Metchosin Community Association, Metchosin Heritage Committee, Metchosin School Museum, Metchosin Museum Society, District of Metchosin, Heritage Advisory Select Committee, Metchosin Arts & Cultural Association, St Mary’s Church Nominator: Barbara Sawatsky, MCA Board Member
Dick and Diane Payne Oak Bay Emergency Program Nominated by Eileen Grant, Manager, Oak Bay Emergency Program
Mary Gidney Organisations: Island Sexual Health Clinic, Metchosin Day, Metchosin Arts and Cultural Association (MACCA), Metchosin Fire Department and Emergency Operations Centre, Refugee Sponsorship
107 Nominator: Maria Weaver, Volunteer & Community Engagement Coordinator, Island Sexual Health Society.
Suellen Guenther Organisations: Victoria Hospice, First Unitarian Church of Victoria, Single Parent Resource Centre Nominator: Barbara (Barb) Boyle, Bedside Singers Program, Victoria Hospice
Trudine Wilson Organisations: Ladies Auxiliary (LA), Prince Edward Branch 91, Royal Canadian Legion, Girl Guides of Canada. Nominator: Belina LeBlanc, Chair, Ways and Means Chair, Ladies Auxiliary (LA), Prince Edward Branch 91, Royal Canadian Legion
ANDREE GALBRAITH
Andrée Galbraith was a founding member of the BC Schizophrenia Society Victoria Branch, established in 1984, now called Mental Health Recovery Partners South Island. Andrée has a family member with a mental health diagnosis, and knows first-hand the impact it can make on a family. The agency found its start as Andrée and several of her family members realized there needed to be community support for families supporting a loved one with schizophrenia. They organized a psychiatrist to give a public presentation at the local library, and expected a few people to attend. Over 100 people came together to learn more about helping their loved one.
Andrée has remained committed to the organisation for over 40 years. She was on the board of directors for several terms and when she retired in 1999 became an office and event volunteer. As an office volunteer, she would welcome community members and share
108 her story as well as navigate community resources to help people feel less alone in their journey of mental health, whether as a person with an illness or a family member.
People who worked with at the Mental Health Recovery Partners South Island speak of Andrée’s selfless commitment, lovely smile, warmth and compassion, and her wonderful sense of humour. They say her kindness, empathy, and generosity of spirit has made a big difference in the lives of many people over the years.
Andrée’s pre-retirement occupation was a special student assistant in schools. She also volunteered on the board at Capital Mental Health Association (CMHA) for nine years in the 1980s and1990s, and worked in the CMHA gift shop once a week when she retired in 1999 until it closed in 2017. She enjoyed seeing the happiness it brought to patients in the hospital.
BEVERLY UNGER
Beverly Unger believes “music is food for the soul”. She cares deeply about the value of live symphonic music to youth. With the Victoria Symphony, Beverly supports programs of music for children in schools, and the Composer in Residence (CIR) program, which consists of members of the Symphony working with high school students, who compose music and play a public concert at the end of the project. Her attendance at one of these concerts in 2009 lead her to make her first of many contributions to the Victoria Symphony.
Colleagues at the Victoria Symphony describe Beverly as invigorating and insightful, with an endless amount of energy. They highlight her determination, generosity, and keenness to help local youth to have more access to musical education and performance opportunities. She is the greatest supporter of the Victoria Symphony’s Education & Outreach program; at her urging, the Symphony expanded a special program called Adopt a School in which they
109 bring many of their programs free of charge to schools with marginalized and vulnerable populations.
Beverly has provided for the longevity of these programs through a gift to the Foundation for the Victoria Symphony.
Prior to retirement, Beverly was a social work psychotherapist in New York City. At the James Bay Community Project, Beverly volunteered in her professional capacity, leading a workshop for depressed women, and acting as a helper to a ‘new mothers’ group. She has also volunteered at Our Place and Victoria Cool Aid Society, participating in the creation of the community’s branch for Planned Parenthood, as well as the Salt Spring Island Community Centre and Youth Centre.
DONNA ZWIERS
Donna has been volunteering with the Saanich Volunteer Services Society for 23 years. Volunteering for at least two hours each week, she has completed over 830 “jobs” for the agency to date.
As a Companion Visitor, a program that matches homebound older adults with a volunteer who visits them weekly, Donna enjoyed her time with each client. “The clients were so very friendly. I’ve sat in many kitchens in Saanich and was privileged to hear life stories,” she says. “We keep people in their homes as long as possible. Often I was the only person they got to talk to that week – thus the long chats in kitchens or on doorsteps.”
Donna has a caring, good-natured demeanor that makes it so easy to talk with her.
She has also been a Driver, helping clients stay healthy by taking them to medical appointments. Because literacy is very important to her, Donna has volunteered at the Times
110 Colonist Book Sale for more than 15 years. From 1986 to 1995, she volunteered in numerous school libraries (in Victoria BC and Newmarket ON), assisted in computer labs, and hauled band equipment as needed. She also volunteers with the Garth Homer Society in Saanich.
Donna has an infectious smile, and is the kind of person who upon first meeting them, you want to know them more. Her skills, attributes and loyalty would be welcome in any organization and staff at Saanich Volunteer Services consider themselves very lucky that she chooses to share her time and skills with them.
In her early career, Donna was a computer analyst and a mathematician. On becoming a mom in 1979, she retired to be at home with her children. Donna is a fibre artist, her main form being weaving but also knitting, felting, and quilting. Donna’s love of gardening is the extra gift she gives to Saanich Volunteer Services Society. She lovingly looks after the numerous varieties of flowers and shrubbery around McRae House, the heritage home of the Saanich Volunteer Services office, sharing her knowledge and love of gardening.
Author Roy Bennett’s words, ‘Be the reason somebody smiles” best describe Donna. If anyone deserves to be recognized as a Valued Elder, it is Donna Zwiers.
ELEANORE ARKESTEYN
Eleanore Arkesteyn volunteers at several organizations in Sidney BC: The Sendial Program at Thrifty Foods, the Sidney Historical Museum, the Sidney/North Saanich Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library, and the BC Aviation Museum. She has also volunteered with St Vincent de Paul, and the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP.
As a Thrifty’s Sendial volunteer, Eleanore is very committed. She focuses on coming in and helping and loves what she does. She’s personable, a pleasure to work with and likes to help her fellow volunteers. She is a great listener, which is so important when making phone calls
111 to customers. Her patience and comforting personality make her indispensable. Eleanore an exemplary volunteer who cares.
At the Sidney Historical Museum, Eleanore has volunteered for the past fifteen years. Not only has she faithfully supported the museum by coming in one morning a week to work in the collections storage, but has served several years on the Board of Directors and Executive of Sidney Museum. Eleanore’s dedication and support have been greatly valued as she works with our team of volunteers, and her ideas have helped with the direction and growth of the museum.
Eleanore is an avid reader and library patron who attended her first Friends of the Library Meeting at the Sidney/North Saanich branch in 2007 at the invitation of a Friend. Eleanore joined the Friends and is now their longest serving member. Eleanore then joined the Friends of the Library Board, and has been a Board member and Secretary for most of this time. She keeps the Friends connected and well informed, and her positive attitude, her team-minded approach, and her knowledge and experience, have helped to ensure the Board’s sustainability over the years. Eleanore also works tirelessly with her fellow Friends to host the popular annual book sale, which brings people together who love books and support libraries, and raises funds to create enhanced library experiences.
Eleanore served a Secretary on the Board of Directors at the British Columbia Aviation Museum for two four-year terms, and lent her support to the Board members as they made operational and strategic decisions about the Museum. She continues to attend Board meetings to take the minutes. Eleanore is also a member of the planning committee for the museum’s Open House, and is currently the Cashier Coordinator, a member of the Gift Shop Team, and recently, with the outbreak of COVID-19, Eleanore lent a hand with feeding and caring for the Museum cat, until a suitable home was found for him.
In her professional life, Eleanore was a legal secretary. As a hard working and dedicated volunteer, Eleanore brings energy, initiative and great ideas to everything she does, and is a highly valued volunteer who deserves acknowledgement for her inspiring embracement of volunteerism.
MARGARET PALMER
Margaret Palmer believes communities need places of peace, tranquility and beauty, and her volunteer activities support her belief. For over 18 years, Marg has been volunteering at Abkhazi Garden. Rain or shine, Marg may be found serenely pulling weeds or welcoming
112 people to the garden at the gate. On many a rainy, cool day when enthusiasm for being outside might be waning, Marg rarely misses being there, arriving on her bicycle with her yellow raincoat. Marg’s ability to engage in conversation with visitors from all over the world keeps every Thursday afternoon interesting for her fellow volunteers. As one Friends Board member added, “She’s a lot of fun to be around!”
Marg’s interest in gardening also brings her to be one of the volunteer gardeners for the DeMezey Memorial Abbeyfield Legacy Society (DMALS), at the Kildonan heritage house, an independent living housing project for low income seniors. Marg’s deep interest in Victoria’s heritage, her determination, and depth of knowledge on gardening makes her a “great asset to the garden, heritage and the community”.
Recently, the DMALS collaborated on two nominations for volunteer service awards, one of which has resulted in Abbeyfield Canada’s 2020 Lifetime Recognition Award being won by the Society’s longest-serving Board member, who is now 102 years old. Colleagues say it is typical of Marg that she would be selflessly involved with recognition for volunteer work of others when she does so much volunteering herself.
At Oak Bay Heritage, Marg has inspired and led many initiatives and projects and continues to serve as a heritage volunteer. Her experience, knowledge, and willing to take on special projects and tasks are invaluable to Oak Bay Heritage and to the community. Fellow volunteers say serving with Marg is a pleasure, that her enthusiasm and energy are contagious, and that she has a wonderful sense of humour.
Pre-retirement, Marg was Librarian for both the BC Ministry of Competition Science and Enterprise and the Ministry of Energy and Mines and Northern Development. Her tireless contributions to several societies, willingness to help others and determination to see projects and initiatives through demonstrate what can be achieved in the retirement years.
113 JANICE POULIN
In the words of Janice Poulin’s nominator, Barbara Sawatsky, “There are very few people who live in Metchosin who do not know the colourful, the upbeat swirl of energy, the dynamo, named Jan Poulin.”
When Jan was five years old, her parents bought the Metchosin Corner Store. The long store hours instilled a strong work ethic, compassion, and a sense of inclusiveness in Jan. Through growing up and working at the store, she knew most of the residents of Metchosin and Beecher Bay First Nation, as well as their difficulties as she loved to listen to thelr stories. Her caring traits are still evident these days as she takes the time to check in on people who are unwell or having difficulties.
While living in Cobble Hill as an adult, Jan volunteered in the Skeleem Village Recovery Centre, and at the age of 34 she enrolled in a University of Victoria Bachelor of Arts program. She completed the four-year program in six years as she juggled home life and her teacher assistant job at Discovery school in Shawnigan Lake.
In 2007, Jan and her family moved back to Metchosin. Jan jumped into the local volunteer pool with both feet. Because she loves the community’s history, she joined the Metchosin Heritage Committee, and volunteered as a docent at the Metchosin School Museum. With her passion for local history, she is an important information resource for the museum. She sat for six years on the Metchosin Museum Board of Directors, and served on the Metchosin Arts and Cultural Association Board. The Metchosin Community Association’s annual Metchosin Mighty Garage Sale would not be the success it is without Jan’s commitment, diligence, and willingness to put a hand to what needs to be done.
114 Jan’s list of interests and accomplishments is long. One of her historical projects has been the refurbishment of an 1899 cottage on her family’s Witty Beach Road property, built by the pioneer Witty family. Sharing her artistry and happiness with those around her, she hand-built “Jan’s Patchwork Fence” along the road, which is visited by people from all over the CRD.
Smart, motivated, and artistic, Jan brings laughter, encouragement, and inspiration to everyone around her. The Metchosin Community Association wholeheartedly supports Jan’s VERA nomination.
DICK AND DIANE PAYNE
When it comes to volunteering, Dick and Diane Payne each bring different skills to the table, and as a couple they are a powerhouse. At the Oak Bay Emergency Program, Dick and Diane were always scheduled separately, but always showed up together and ended up doing double shifts. It illustrates how much of an inseparable team these two are. They believe strongly in the value of volunteering in all of their communities. People are not just touched by their actions but also by their zest for life and their genuine caring for others. Along with the many hours they give to others, they bring calm and lots of smiles to every situation.
The Paynes have been active members of the Oak Bay Emergency Program (OBEP) for 28 years. Diane has been a member of the Emergency Support Services (ESS), Emergency Preparedness Education (EPE) and Amateur Radio (Comms) teams since she joined the program, and Dick has been with the Comms team since he joined OBEP and recently joined the ESS program. The ESS program provides referrals to essential services to evacuees during a Disaster. the EPE delivers face-to-face emergency preparedness training to the general public, and the Comms program trains volunteers to provide ham radio communications during an emergency or disaster, when other forms of tele- communications are not available.
Through their selfless dedication they have made Oak Bay a more disaster resistant community.
As educators in our community Dick and Diane have been providing our residents with the information and direction that they need to feel safe and secure with the knowledge that they are prepared.
115 Prior to retirement, Diane was a Physio Therapist with Juan de Fuca Hospitals, and Dick was an engineer with the Province of BC. They both enjoy cycling, hiking and spending time on their boat.
Their other volunteering activities include the annual Swiftsure Race and the Royal Victoria Yacht Club’s handicapped sailing program. At Oak Bay Lodge between 2009-2012, Diane assisted with the residents’ yoga program and socializing programs. In 2005, the Paynes initiated the Oak Bay Block Watch program on their block by pounding gently on doors and got 40 houses enrolled. Diane was the Block Watch Captain until 2015, contributing greatly to the success of the program.
Dick and Diane are seen as great examples of valued elders sharing their skills, knowledge and experience with the community, representing what helping neighbours and friends is all about.
MARY GIDNEY
After retiring from teaching high school, Mary Gidney first got involved with volunteering with organizing Metchosin Day in 2006. Metchosin Day is an annual fair that brings almost 6000 people for a celebration of rural life. For 14 years, Mary organized hundreds of tasks with a team of 10, contributing hundreds of hours to make the day a success. At the 2013 Metchosin Day, Mary was honoured with the Citizen of the Year award.
In 2007, Mary and two friends began regeneration plans to turn the disused Metchosin Elementary School into an art centre. In September 2012, the Metchosin Art Gallery (MAG) opened with an exhibition called Visions of Metchosin, and grew into an art gallery that encouraged idea exchanges between local students, First Nations and Metchosinites. The art centre continues today as a lively hub for many artists and craft persons.
116 As a volunteer with the Metchosin Fire Department and Emergency Operations Centre, Mary helped organize volunteers to prepare food for training sessions and meetings. She worked with the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), ensuring the EOC had enough food on hand to feed 50 people three meals a day for three days in case of a major emergency. If there was a fire call-out, Mary would help organize food to be ready for the firefighter once they returned, or to have food sent to the site of the fire.
Mary has been involved with refugee sponsorship since April 2016, when a group of local adults formed a committee to sponsor a refugee family to Victoria. In July 2016, the group welcomed an Eritrean family, who lived in a Sudanese refugee camp for over 20 years. Mom, dad and five children got off the plane and in early September, a sixth baby came along. Mary has been the major force in helping the family adjust to living in Victoria. Gradually, Mary became like a grandmother to the children, and a trusted friend to the parents. Typically, sponsorship agreements last one year but Mary continues to work with the family.
Mary began volunteering with Island Sexual Health (ISH) in 2019. While Mary’s primary volunteer responsibilities have included assisting the physicians, nurses, and patients, Mary takes on additional responsibilities whenever possible. Last summer, she offered her truck for use as a Victoria Pride Parade float. She not only let the team ride in the back of her truck while dancing and dressed in bright colors while blasting music, but she also helped paste all sorts of hilarious decorations to the outside of her vehicle, including what looked like 100 balloons. Mary then drove the float in the parade, proudly waving and honking at parade attendees.
Mary brings a wealth of knowledge, warmth, empathy and experience to everything she does, and is all-around such a uniquely brilliant individual. For all Mary is, and for all that she does, her supporters are delighted to nominate her for a 2020 Valued Elder Recognition Award.
SUELLEN GUENTHER
Suellen Guenther’s dream has always been to make a difference, and she has done this by being a lifelong learner, volunteer and teacher. Suellen embodies the caring and generous values which make a successful community.
117
When Suellen retired in 2007 from her position as the Textbook Buyer at the UVic Bookstore, she signed up for Bedside Singer training at Victoria Hospice. Suellen enjoys singing and is comfortable around people and their families at end-of-life. In this unique volunteer program, with the patient’s or family’s permission, pairs of singers sing to Hospice patients and their families. Suellen believes music opens doors to conversations between loved ones, and connects people to their past at a time when they may be reflecting on much of their lifetime.
When the long-time original leader and coordinator of the Bedside Singers needed to step down suddenly for health reasons, Suellen and several other singers who highly valued the Bedside Singer Program worked to ensure that it continued. As a natural leader, Suellen’s skills as a teacher, trainer and organizer as well as a team builder have been invaluable to the continuation of the Hospice Bedside Singers program.
Suellen has a long and varied history of volunteering at the First Unitarian Church of Victoria, including teaching in the Sunday school; sitting on the church board; and organizing several major fundraisers including the annual Services Auction and Book Sale. In Suellen’s capable hands, both fundraisers became thriving social successes as well as fundraising successes. In 2019, Suellen was given the honour of Church Elder. and is consulted regularly regarding matters of concern.
Suellen was also a key to the church’s Refugee Sponsorship Committee, first in raising the money for our chosen family who were distant relatives of a Muslim Syrian friend of a member, then organizing housing for them. This involved building multi-faith connections especially with the Mosque and ICA, and with other refugee sponsorship groups in Victoria. When the family’s arrival date drew near, Suellen led a team of a dozen people who cleaned and repainted the family’s rental suite. In addition to being a consummate organizer and
118 motivator of volunteers, Suellen rolled up her sleeves and wielded rollers, brushes and brooms until the suite was sparkling and ready for occupancy.
Suellen is the ultimate example of the saying: “If you want something done, always go to the busiest person you know.” With her quiet, positive energy, patience, and sensitivity, Suellen is the special kind of person who helps keep her community’s dreams alive. Susan makes a difference to the people around her and is a vital part of her community.
TRUDINE WILSON
A 2014 article in the Goldstream News Gazette celebrated Trudine Wilson as “proof positive that guiding is for life.” As a girl growing up in Colwood, Trudine joined Brownies at the Colwood Children’s Hall in 1962, and stayed on as a Guide and then a Ranger. In 1967 she volunteered as Junior Leader for the 1st Colwood Guides and is still running the unit in the same Colwood Hall, over 50 years later. Her leadership skills and passion for the Guiding program led her to become the unit’s Lieutenant and then the Captain, plus numerous positions including District Events Coordinator, District Treasurer, District Commissioner, and Division Commissioner.
Trudine strongly believes that Guiding provides learning benefits, team building, social skills, and peer guidance to youth. Her dedication has led her recognition with numerous Guiding awards, including the Gold Thanks Pin, Silver Merit, Medal of Merit, Honorary Life Membership, BC Guiders Appreciation Pin, and the District Commissioners Pin.
She is willing to take on innovative or unusual tasks. When Guiding brought in a new computer system for tracking member information, Trudine joined the iMIS team, even though she had never used a computer before. She’s even willing to use her home as a temporary storehouse: All the local Girl Guide cookies get delivered to Trudine’s house,
119 before distribution to the districts from there. Think of Trudine next year when you buy your box of Girl Guide cookies!
Trudine joined the Royal Canadian Legion, Prince Edward Branch #91 in 1997, and continues to be an active member with the Legion as well as the Ladies Auxiliary. She has held numerous positions of leadership including th Ways & Means Chair, Awards Chair, Volunteer Coordinator and Treasurer. Trudine keeps the Legion humming as she manages the books, files, records, and monthly reports, organizes and runs the two annual craft fairs ands annual Book Sale, arranges for birthday cards for all the residents of Broadmead Lodge, and makes monthly visits to the LA’s adopted Veteran with another LA member and a therapy dog.
Giving freely of her time comes naturally to Trudine, and she’s an excellent fundraiser. For the past 10 years, she has almost single-handedly organized an annual Christmas gift- wrapping event at the West Shore Shopping Mall, as a fundraiser for Guiding for the first six years, and for the Legion for the last four. Trudine helps organize and oversee the volunteers, canvasses for donations for boxes, wrapping paper, ribbon, etc and spends 12 hours of every single day of this fundraiser ensuring the operation runs smoothly.
Trudine thrives being around people of all ages. She is always ready, willing and able to help others and she gives countless hours of her time to the community. Hard-working, dedicated volunteers like Trudine allow not-for-profit organisations to keep their doors open. For this, Trudine Wilson is an exemplary recipient of the 2020 Valued Elder Recognition Award.
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121 The new $7.5-million Sooke library is expected to open in 2022. (Vancouver Island Regional Library) Construction set to begin on new Sooke library The new facility is expected to open in spring 2022
KEVIN LAIRD / Oct. 20, 2020 6:35 a.m. / COMMUNITY / LOCAL NEWS
Construction of a new library in Sooke began today, marking a milestone for the facility that Vancouver Island Regional Library board chair Brenda Leigh says has been “a long time coming.”
The two-storey building on Wadams Way between Anna Marie and Townsend roads will house a 14,412-square-foot library, including a children’s area, fireplace lounge, laptop bar and community space.
“We have a clear vision for the future development and growth of our community,” Sooke Mayor Maja Tait said. “A vibrant and modern library was an important piece in our plans. I have full confidence that with this library, we are
122 / setting the wheels in motion for ongoing and sustainable development of Lot A, the Wadams Way corridor, and the surrounding area.”
The $7.5-million budget for the library encompasses all aspects of the project, including construction, furniture, and technology infrastructure. Also, there will be increased staffing, expanded hours of operation, and more scheduled programs.
The library board made slight adjustments to keep the project on budget, including removing a balcony on the rear of the building, replacing exterior siding, and other small modifications.
Sooke has been looking to replace its aging library for more than a decade, but the project has been delayed time after time.
“As someone who has been working on this file for years, there were times when I wondered whether we would ever get to this day,” said Rosemary Bonanno, VIRL’s executive director.
“This new library will evolve and complement Sooke’s ongoing transition into a destination of choice for people living and visiting south of the Malahat.”
Island West Coast Development is the library, construction contractor. It will begin by preparing site surveys, clearing trees and brush, cutting in an access road, and mobilizing construction sites.
The new library is expected to open in spring 2022.
123 / The clearing of the land for the new Vancouver Island Regional Library in Sooke began Thursday. The $7.5-million building on Wadams Way between Anna Marie and Townsend roads will include more than 14,400 square feet of space, children’s area fireplace lounge, laptop bar and community space. The library is expected to open in spring 2022. (Kevin Laird - Sooke News Mirror) Ground-breaking for the new Sooke library New Sooke library expected be completed by spring 2020
SOOKE NEWS STAFF / Oct. 22, 2020 3:25 p.m. / LOCAL NEWS / NEWS
The clearing of the land for the new Vancouver Island Regional Library in Sooke began Thursday. The $7.5-million building on Wadams Way between Anna Marie and Townsend roads will include more than 14,400 square feet of space, children’s area fireplace lounge, laptop bar and community space. The library is expected to open in spring ADVERTISEMENT 2022.
RELATED: Construction set to begin on new Sooke library
124 / Sooke Elementary kindergarteners Charlotte Thorne (front left) and Grayson Purvis and expanding the native plant garden on their school property thanks to the help of Gr. 5 student Jace Ferris (back left), Gr. 4/5 teacher Marion Stupich and Kindergarten teacher Lisa Maria Schlosser. (Aaron Guillen/News Staff) Sooke Elementary plants native plant garden with help from community Sooke Elementary teachers, students expand backyard garden
AARON GUILLEN / Oct. 22, 2020 11:30 a.m. / COMMUNITY
They say every plant starts with a seed, but that’s all it took for Sooke Elementary librarian Liz Stannard to realize the opportunity to grow their school’s garden.
Since the beginning of June, Stannard and kindergarten teacher Lisa Maria Schlosser have been building a garden behind Sooke Elementary, located along Highway 14.
It’s a space that most would regard as a pocket garden of sorts, with a 20-by-5-foot area at the edge of the school field. But when school staff heard that the Vancouver Island
125 / Regional Library would be building a new two-storey library along Wadams Way, they saw a chance to grow beyond their borders.
Stannard reached out to the District of Sooke and received permission to take native species from the property before construction began. She and Schlosser were able to get their hands on sword ferns, salal, Oregon grape and ocean spray.
READ MORE: Sooke Secret Garden Tour goes virtual
Now, they’re expanding the garden into a small corner of the school property with a large cedar tree as cover. On most school mornings, she’ll hand her students with a plastic shovel and give them the chance to learn how to transplant new species into their garden.
“We wanted to do more hands-on activities for the kids, and this is perfect for that,” said Schlosser, who admits she’s a passionate gardener.
“We, as teachers, could have done this ourselves in no time, but this gives a chance for our students to feel like they’ve accomplished something themselves while spending time outdoors.”
They’ve had help from the district and community members who’ve given their extra native plants, wooden benches from a teacher’s family, and mulch from Sooke Soil and Landscape.
ALSO READ: Food security initiative encourages Sooke residents to grow food at home
126 / The Campbell River branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library is scheduled for demolition in 2021 to make way for a new $14-million library facility. File photo by Mike Davies/Campbell River Mirror Mayor of Campbell River addresses concerns surrounding new library funding ‘This $14 million is the Vancouver Island Regional Library board’s money,’ mayor says
MIKE DAVIES / Oct. 23, 2020 6:30 a.m. / LOCAL NEWS / NEWS
The mayor of Campbell River took the opportunity during the Oct. 19 meeting of city council to clarify a few things about the funding for the new library downtown.
Council was discussing a list of pre-budget planning items to pass in advance of its three-day 2021 financial planning marathon happening Oct. 26-28, one of which was the demolition of the current library to prepare for the creation of the new $14-million facility, announced last month.
127 / There are some misconceptions that are out there in the community, particularly on social media, Mayor Andy Adams says, that the money being spent on the new library is money that the city could better use elsewhere.
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“The $14 million that is being spent on this particular facility is money that is being requisitioned directly by the Vancouver Island Regional Library board and is not available for access or redistribution to other city functions,” Adams says. “We’ve had comments like why don’t we apply this to some of the downtown issues, or why don’t we use it to rebuild the pool at Strathcona Gardens – which is a Strathcona Regional District facility – or why don’t we use it to fix the Sportsplex?
“This $14 million is the Vancouver Island Regional Library board’s money,” the mayor continues. “If we choose to say, ‘No, we don’t want it,’ they will take that $14 million – as they
128 / have for the past eight years – and build a facility elsewhere on Vancouver Island.”
Coun. Claire Moglove echoed those sentiments.
“The funding that comes to build this library comes from, I think, 38 different communities up and down the Island and as far north as Haida Gwaii,” Moglove says. “So just as Campbell River residents have contributed to libraries being built in Comox or Nanaimo or Sayward or wherever … this is Campbell River’s turn.”
RELATED: Campbell River to get new $14-million library
But many of the concerns surrounding the project seem to be less about the fact that the money is being spent on a library, and more about the location within the city that it’s being constructed. Specifically, the concerns surround the fact that many people don’t feel comfortable accessing the current library due to safety concerns in that area of town, and the new library will be in the same location.
Coun. Kermit Dahl said while he supports the library project in principle, those concerns need to be urgently addressed.
“I really hope we get the downtown issue dealt with, because it would be terrible to spend $14 million – I know where the money comes from and it has nothing to do with us directly – but to open a $14-million library in the neighbourhood that it’s operating in right now, or under the conditions that neighbourhood operates in right now, would be shameful,” Dahl says. “I hope that we take the downtown safety issue seriously and get it dealt with.”
129 / Mayor Adams says he understands those concerns and admits the city needs to do better.
“We’ve had a vision for downtown and that vision certainly isn’t being realized today or over the past little while,” Adams says. “Certainly council has got its hands full … and will continue to try and find ways to address the completely unacceptable behaviours and issues that are going on in our downtown core.
“But I also think it’s important for council not to abandon the downtown,” Adams continues. “An investment of this type is sending the message that the downtown is important and that we want to see improvements made.”
Coun. Colleen Evans agrees.
“I believe that the type of facility we’re going to see is going to really representative of an enhancement, not only in our downtown core, but in what our citizens are asking for,” Evans says. “I think this is going to be an incredible cultural asset in our community.”
Coun. Dahl also points out that this facility, hopefully, won’t be built into the downtown in its current state.
“We should remind the community that a $14 million library isn’t going to be built in a matter of weeks,” Dahl says. “We have some time to deal with the issues that we have downtown while this process is gone through to bring us a new library that will be safe for everyone to go in and out of.”
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Projects
Sooke starts construction on new library
PROJECTS Sooke starts construction on new library
DCN-JOC News Services October 26, 2020
VANCOUVER ISLAND REGIONAL LIBRARY — A rendering shows what the new library in Sooke, B.C. will look like once completed. The project broke ground this month.
OOKE, B.C. — Shovels are in the ground for a new project in Sooke, B.C. after S months of planning, negotiations and design tweaks. Workers have started preparing site surveys, clearing trees and brush, cutting in an access road, and mobilizing the site for construction of a new library.
131 / “For many in the community, this day has been a long time coming,” says Brenda Leigh, chair of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board of Trustees, in a statement. “I expect the people of Sooke will watch with interest and excitement as this important capital project takes shape. In a year like no other, it is especially heartening to move forward with such a well needed and long-awaited community amenity.”
City officials and the VIRL spent time planning out all aspects of the project with the community in mind.
Once built, the 13,400-square-foot library will have the following features and amenities:
Increased staffing Expanded hours of operation Expanded program schedule Children’s area Fireplace lounge area Laptop bar Study space Bookable rooms
“We have a clear vision for the future development and growth of our community,” said Sooke Mayor Maja Tait. “A vibrant and modern library was an important piece in our plans — I have full confidence that with this library, we are setting the wheels in motion for ongoing and sustainable development of Lot A, the Wadams Way corridor, and surrounding area.”
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PHOTO: Mega Mixed-Use 132 / Most Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) branches are slated to open this week for limited in-branch service. Comox is open for walkthrough service as of Tuesday. File photo Comox library is open for walkthrough service SCOTT STANFIELD / Oct. 27, 2020 3:30 p.m. / COMMUNITY
The Comox library is open for walkthrough service as of today (Tuesday, Oct. 27), as are most branches of the Vancouver Island Regional Library.
Reflecting the unique aspects of their branch layouts and the communities they serve, some branches will offer walkthrough service of a limited collection, while others will open their entire collection, offer a sit down service, and provide public computer access, a news release states.
The Courtenay and Cumberland libraries are close to opening as the VIRL awaits some safety equipment to arrive.
The Union Bay branch is one of four libraries that will continue to offer takeout service only until further notice.
133 / For everyone’s safety, customers are asked to adhere to all posted safety information and the directives of staff, including limiting the number of people allowed inside at a time and maintaining a proper physical distance. Customers are encouraged to wear masks when visiting the library.
Customers must have library cards with them and use the self-checkout machines, when available. Branches will continue to offer takeout services for those who would prefer to use this service. VIRL will continue to waive all late fees, but asks that customers return and renew materials per due dates to ensure everyone has equal opportunity.
FMI: virl.bc.ca/services
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134 / The Chemainus library has resumed services again beyond takeout. (Photo by Don Bodger) Chemainus library open again for walk-through service Takeout policy still an option for those who prefer it as precautionary measure
DON BODGER / Oct. 28, 2020 4:00 p.m. / LOCAL NEWS
The Chemainus library is among the Vancouver Island Regional Library branches open again for walk-through service.
The resumption of services Wednesday following a long closure due to COVID and then restrictions to takeout offerings are being welcomed by the community.
“Staff across the system have been hard at work prepping their branches to welcome customers inside, and the vast majority are slated to open this week for limited in-branch service,” noted David Carson, the VIRL’s director of corporate communications and strategic initiatives.
135 / “Reflecting the unique aspects of their branch layouts and the communities they serve, some branches will offer walk- through service of a limited collection, while others will open their entire collection, offer a sit-down service, and provide public computer access.”
“The openings we’re seeing this week are a direct result of the hard work, dedication and resilience our staff have demonstrated despite the challenges the pandemic has created,” added Melissa Legacy, VIRL’s director of library services and planning. “The phased approach we’ve taken, starting with takeout, has allowed us to safely bring more services on board, develop best practices as we go, and ensure we are responding to the needs of our communities. I would like to thank all of the branch staff for bringing us to this important milestone.”
“For everyone’s safety, customers are asked to adhere to all posted safety information and the directives of staff, including limiting the number of people allowed inside at a time and maintaining a proper physical distance,” Carson indicated. “All customers are encouraged to wear masks when visiting the library.”
Library cards must be brought by customers and the use of self-checkout machines, when available, is encouraged.
The takeout option will still be available for those who prefer to use it.
VIRL will continue to waive all late fees, but customers are being asked to return and renew materials as per due dates to ensure everyone has an equal opportunity.
136 / More information on the specific services and resources offered at VIRL branches can be found at virl.bc.ca/services/.
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Inside visits to the new Chemainus library are being permitted again to borrow books. (Photo by Don Bodger)
137 / 10/29/2020 ASK SEASIDE - Questions? Queries? Let Us Find the Answers for You! -
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POSTED ON OCTOBER 29, 2020 BY SEASIDE IN REGULARS WITH 1 VIEWS ASK SEASIDE – Questions? Queries? Let Us Find the Answers for You!
by Lara Gladych –
Who do you turn to when you have a question? Is it Google or Siri, maybe Alexa? At Seaside Magazine we are fortunate to know local experts in all the fields (or we’ll know someone who knows someone), so next time you have a question, Ask Seaside! Each month I’ll take your quandaries and queries and do the research for you. Send your questions to [email protected].
Q: Seaside Magazine’s article in the August issue (“A Small Step Toward Reconciliation”) made me think about how I’d like to learn more about our local First Nations, and our shared history. Where should I start? Can you recommend a reading list?
A: I got in touch with Virginia MacLeod at the Sidney Library. Saltwater People, as told by Dave Elliot Sr., is a great JOIN US ON place to start for our local Indigenous history. You will find a record of traditional Saanich knowledge and the Saanich language, SENĆOŦEṈ, published in a time when Indigenous perspectives were hard to come by. The recently- published SENĆOŦEṈ: a Dictionary of the Saanich Language is a physical manifestation of years of collaboration and the amazing language work that is happening in our communities: Tsartlip, Tsawout, Tseycum and Pauquachin. We have it at the library! For much more like this, visit www.virl.bc.ca, and follow the Indigenous Interest link under Learn > by Audience. ~ Virginia MacLeod, Adult Customer Services Librarian, Sidney/North Saanich Branch, Vancouver Island Regional Library
Q: I am in the process of downsizing, and I’m wondering if there are people or businesses who would come to do estimates on household items – some of which are too large to take to an auction company. I know I could put an ad
https://seasidemagazine.ca/ask-seaside-questions-queries-let-us-find-the-answers-for-you-6/ 138 1/3 10/29/2020 ASK SEASIDE - Questions? Queries? Let Us Find the Answers for You! -
in the paper, or online, but I don’t want strangers coming into my home.
A: There are apparently several companies out there that specialize in this exact type of work related to downsizing, estimates and the like. Lynne Parker of The Old Attic gave me a few examples she is familiar with. Max Sold is an online auction platform for downsizing and estate sales, and they offer either MaxSold Managed or Seller Managed sale of items. Lynne knows Jim Reid, at Step Toe Antiques in Victoria, who is an accredited appraiser and will purchase everything from single pieces to an entire home’s contents from downsizing and estate sales. At The Old Attic, they, too, regularly go into people’s homes to go through items and identify what could be sold on consignment at their store. ~ Lynne Parker, Co-Owner of The Old Attic
Q: I love making fresh pressed juices, and even though I try to limit the fruits I use because of their naturally occurring sugars, I wonder if ultimately the nutrient value of the juice offsets the sugar content?
A: “Juicing is excellent for getting nutrients into the body fast. When juicing, using green vegetables such as parsley, celery, kale, spinach and cucumber helps to keep the sugar content very low and the nutritional value high,” says Tracy Doyle of Bad to the Bone (Broth). She suggests trying ginger for added flavour, which also helps with digestion and bloating. “When using fruits, use lemons and limes or local berries to cut down on sugar content.” Tracy points out that because juicing eliminates all fibre, the sugar in fresh juices goes straight into your bloodstream, which can lead to mood swings and energy crashes. Another option is blending, which retains the natural fibre that in turn helps stabilize blood sugars. “In my opinion, no, the nutritional value of fresh pressed juices doesn’t outweigh the high sugar content. Getting some fibre in there is a better option if you want to use more of those yummy sweeter fruits.” ~ Tracy Doyle, Nutrition Coach, Owner of Bad to the Bone (Broth)
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https://seasidemagazine.ca/ask-seaside-questions-queries-let-us-find-the-answers-for-you-6/ 139 2/3 10/29/2020 Island libraries ramp back up after COVID shut down | NanaimoNewsNOW | Nanaimo news, sports, weather, real estate, classifieds and more
SECTIONS Island libraries ramp back up after COVID shut down Country Club Centre has grown and changed with the Nanaimo community for 40 years and counting, h i ide and
Most 39 Vancouver Island Regional Library locations shuttered by COVID-19 have re-opened. (Ian Holmes/NanaimoNewsNOW)
LIBRARY OPTIONS By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff
Island libraries ramp back up after COVID shut down
Oct 28, 2020 4:54 PM
PARKSVILLE — Following being closed for several months, most Vancouver Island Regional Library’s (VIRL) 39 branches have re- opened their doors.
The Parksville branch attached to City Hall re-opened Wednesday, Oct. 28, while the Qualicum Beach library is slated to open in early November, according to communications director David Carson.
He said both Oceanside branches and many other VIRL locations have been providing a takeout service for the past few months. Carson said the service involves pre-selecting items online then picking them up at a participating branch.
Carson said their Parksville location’s entire browsing selection and computers are available for public use.
https://nanaimonewsnow.com/2020/10/28/island-libraries-ramp-back-up-after-covid-shut-down/ 140 1/5 Nariel Davis, children’s librarian at the Vancouver Island Regional Library in Duncan, shows off some the Lego that families can borrow to build creations for the Lego exhibit at the CVAC gallery. (Submitted) CVAC ready to play next month in Duncan Puppetry, Lego, basketry and more
ANDREA RONDEAU / Oct. 30, 2020 12:00 p.m. / ENTERTAINMENT / LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT
“We have a playful art season ahead!” wrote Susan Down, managing director of the Cowichan Valley Arts Council in an email to the Citizen to let us know what’s coming up at their galleries in the Cowichan Community Centre in Duncan.
So what’s up? Everything from puppetry, to Lego, baskets and found objects, according to Down.
On Wednesday, Nov. 25 there will be a puppetry talk from noon to 1 p.m, followed by a workshop from 1:15 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. with Tim Gosley.
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“Puppeteer Tim Gosley will give a retrospective talk through his career, including performances and demonstrations of various forms of puppets,” Down says. “He started working backstage at his father’s Jerry Gosley Smile Show. He will perform a puppet version of his father as Queen Victoria, then his time in television with Jim Henson’s Muppets on Fraggle Rock, Canadian Sesame Street and numerous other television projects. At the same time he will explore his personal career that involves a love for numerous puppetry forms from giant parade style characters, to shadow, light and low-tech live video applications.”
The talk is free, but you should reserve your seat. Priority will be given to people in the workshop.
The workshop is limited to a small group and costs $40 for non-CVAC members, $30 for members.
142 / “Gosley leads an LED shadow and light puppetry workshop featuring low-tech live video puppetry and object manipulation. This inexpensive technique can have a big impact for your website, Fringe play, creative promotion or fine art production,” promotional materials say.
Gosley will also be performing a show at Theatre Inconnu in Victoria in November.
If puppetry isn’t your thing there’s also the Lotsa Lego Show that runs from Nov. 28 to Dec. 18. You’ll want to sign up now to participate, and the entry deadline is Nov. 25. The entry fee is $5.
Don’t have your own Lego? The Cowichan branch of the Vancouver Island Library, also located in the Cowichan Community Centre, is offering loans of mystery bags of Lego to kids and families to build their creations. People can enter as individuals or groups — families, school classes — in two age categories, under 12 years old and over 12 years old. Entries can be done on the CVAC website.
The theme is Future Worlds. Register in person at the Red Balloon Toyshop (158 Craig St., Duncan) or online at www.cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca
The Red Balloon Toyshop is also sponsoring prizes for some of the most outstanding creations.
But that’s not all. Further CVAC shows are already in the gallery, just waiting for you to come to see them.
Dennis B. Del Torre has Conversation Starters and Show Stoppers, described as work created from “whimsical mixed media and found objects,” on from Oct. 28 to Nov. 14. 143 / There is also a multi-artists show called Elements, featuring 28 artists working in metal, clay, wood and basketry, on from Oct. 24 to Nov. 14.
Want to see how the stuff is made?
Check out the artist demonstrations at the gallery. Wednesday, Nov. 4 from noon until 3 p.m Alison Irwin will demonstrate basketry. On Thursday, Nov. 5, from 1-3 p.m Cathi Jefferson will demonstrate clay handbuilding. On Thursday, Nov. 12 from 1-3 p.m. Linda Richter will demonstrate clay sculpture. And finally on Saturday, Nov. 14, from noon to 3 p.m., Alison Irwin is back with basketry, specifically twining.
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144 / Vancouver Island Public Library’s Sooke branch is expected to reopen to patrons in early November. (Pixabay photo) Sooke library set to reopen in November Book lovers can once again browse the shelves at local branch
KEVIN LAIRD / Oct. 30, 2020 5:30 a.m. / COMMUNITY
Sooke book lovers will soon return to their public library to browse for fall reading material after the branch was temporary closed to reduce the spread of COVID 19.
The Vancouver Island Public Library (VIRL) opened many of its branches for limited-service this week. Sooke is expected to open in early November for “modified sit down,” said David Carson, VIRL’s director of corporate communications and strategic initiatives.
Reflecting on the unique aspects of their branch layouts and the communities they serve, some branches will offer walkthrough service of a limited collection, while others will open their entire collection, offer sit-down service, and
provide public computer access. 145 / “The openings we’re seeing this week are a direct result of the hard work, dedication, and resilience our staff have demonstrated despite the challenges the pandemic has created,” said Melissa Legacy, VIRL’s director of library services and planning.
VIRL has taken a careful, methodical approach since temporarily suspending in-branch services in response to the pandemic, including offering takeout service and enabling users to access books, DVDs, magazines, and other materials from branches across the Island, Haida Gwaii and the Central Coast.
The Port Renfrew branch will continue to offer takeout service only.
Library users must adhere to posted safety information and staff’s directives, including limiting the number of people allowed inside at a time and maintaining a proper physical distance.
Need additional information? Please go online to virl.bc.ca/services.
RELATED: Library issues notices of layoff to most staff
RELATED: Library stepping up reading services
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146 / 10/30/2020 Jobs | Education News Canada
Education News Canada CLOSE PRINT
Vancouver Island University VIU Partners with Community to Remember Fallen Soldiers
October 30, 2020
Nanaimo Remembers is a video memorial project spearheaded by Vancouver Island University in collaboration with Nanaimo Community Archives. Check it out at various locations across Nanaimo, and on VIU's YouTube channel.
https://educationnewscanada.com/print_news.php?ID=863473 147 1/3 10/30/2020 Jobs | Education News Canada VIU video memorial that honours Nanaimo soldiers' contributions to the First and Second World Wars to be displayed across the city.
A unique video memorial project that aims to tell a piece of the story of the lives of the Nanaimo soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First and Second World Wars will be displayed across the city.
For 11 days leading up to Remembrance Day, the Nanaimo Remembers project will display the names of more than 200 soldiers in prominent locations across the city. The names have been obtained from the Dallas Square Cenotaph in downtown Nanaimo and a special section highlights the contributions of local Indigenous soldiers, thanks to research conducted by Vancouver Island University (VIU) Elder-in-Residence Geraldine Manson.
The project, which launched in 2018, was spearheaded by VIU's Communications and Public Engagement and Strategic Marketing teams in collaboration with the University's Canadian Letters and Images Project (CLIP) and Nanaimo Community Archives. Nanaimo Remembers grew out of a desire to localize a project VIU participated in for many years - The World Remembers, a display tribute to soldiers across the world who lost their lives in the Great War.
"These are the names of local soldiers - soldiers whose ancestors in some cases still reside in Nanaimo, so this project really hits home for many in our community," says Dr. Stephen Davies, Director of the Canadian Letters and Images Project. "This project is one example of the way VIU partners with local organizations on an initiative that benefits the community as a whole."
Information shared about each soldier, where available, includes their name, rank and battalion, when they died and at what age, where they were buried, their occupation, and their connection to Nanaimo.
The video presentation will run continuously from November 1 - 11, 2020, on the large screen in the Welcome Centre (Building 300 at VIU's Nanaimo campus) as well as showcased live on VIU's Facebook page starting at 9 am on November 11. It will also be played on screens at several locations in the community on varying dates:
Through the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Public Schools' website, social media accounts and at participating schools; Through the City of Nanaimo's website, YouTube channel and social media accounts; At the Harbourfront, Nanaimo North and Wellington locations of the Vancouver Island Regional Library; At the Nanaimo Museum; At Woodgrove Centre Guest Services; And at the Port Theatre.
Since VIU started the project, Davies has heard from several people who spotted their ancestors' names on the screens.
"They were quite moved that we are honouring their relatives in this way," he says. "We hope to add to the project every year in an effort to help shine a light on the incredible contributions and sacrifices made by local soldiers and their families."
Check out the project at one of the participating locations above, or visit VIU's YouTube channel. For more information :
Organization: Vancouver Island University Address: 900 Fifth Street https://educationnewscanada.com/print_news.php?ID=863473 148 2/3 The Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) has informed its partner communities what their levies will be for this year. The approximate five per cent increase in the levy will go towards retaining existing services and improving the organization's E-resources, where it is seeing increasing demand. Photo by Mike Davies/Campbell River Mirror City should consider fresh alternative to the library plan This letter is in response to your Oct. 28 article outlining Mayor Andy Adams' discussion of the proposed new library to be constructed on the existing site ("Mayor of Campbell River addresses concerns surrounding new library funding").
Nov. 4, 2020 12:00 a.m. / OPINION
This letter is in response to your Oct. 28 article outlining Mayor Andy Adams’ discussion of the proposed new library to be constructed on the existing site (“Mayor of Campbell River addresses concerns surrounding new library funding”).
First, we would like to applaud council’s decision to invest in the downtown core. We only need to look at what happened in the area of Alder and St. Ann’s with the city’s investment in
149 / this precinct which when combined with Mr. Mailman’s private investment, succeeded in reversing the long decline in this area. It is now an area of pride for all of us.
There is no doubt that the Downtown core between 11th and 13th Avenues is currently suffering greatly and something needs to be done to reverse this unfortunate situation. An investment by the City in this area is long overdue; an investment in a new public library in this area could be a ‘game-changer.’
The mayor is correct that the $14 million being budgeted for the new library comes from the Regional Library Board’s budget and not directly from City. However, the city is a ‘Shareholder of the Library Board’ (which includes all the municipalities and regional districts north of the Malahat) and in 2020 the city’s contribution to the Library funds was a not an insignificant $1.616 million.
As a shareholder/member of the regional library, our city (through council) has an obligation to ensure that library funds are being spent appropriately. Is the $14 M being spent responsibly, we do not know enough about the Library Board’s financial decisions to judge that?
However, we would like to address a second question which needs to be considered “is there a more appropriate location for a new library in our Downtown ?” The city has an obligation to ensure that the decision on the location of the new library meets the needs of both the library and the needs of the community.
We think there is a better alternative.
150 / The proposed new library is a two-story building which is problematic for both mobility and security. Consequently, a site of sufficient size that the new library can be on one level should be preferable (The building can be higher but the library function should be all on one level).
Fortunately, such a site exists in the immediate area. It is the former Rose Bowl site which is currently being used for transition housing. We have been told that this is interim only so the site can be available.
This location offers several advantages.
• Enables the library needs to be met on a single level.
• The existing library building, which would likely cost in the $2.5 Million range to replace, would be preserved, and could be repurposed for the Art Gallery. As well, a further $1 million dollars cost to the City to demolish the existing building would not be spent.
• A new library on the Rosebowl site will anchor the redevelopment of this area as proposed in the City’s visioning report “Refresh Down Town”. This report projects that both Cedar and Cypress Streets will get a makeover similar to Alder Street with underground utilities, new street landscaping, wider sidewalks, bike lanes etc. It is very likely what are now vacant lots would soon be improved with new commercial buildings with the City’s investment. It is not inconceivable that this area could quite easily be generating an additional $200,000+ of annual taxes revenues from these new developments in a very short time
151 / • A library at this location will easily be connected both visually and with pedestrian access to the Community Centre which is only about 300 feet walking distance away. The library, Art Gallery and Tidemark Theatre would form a cohesive cultural and artistic centre – connected and a true downtown destination.
• A “Refreshed Downtown” of this area will change the current street scene.
We have been told that it is too late, and the decision has already been made to build the new library on the same site.
We have been told that if the city does not proceed with this plan then Campbell River will go to the bottom of the list.
Surely some flexibility must exist to revisit the current proposal and to consider this fresh alternative.
It is not too late and we would urge those of you who think that a second look should be taken – make your wishes known to council.
Write a letter, send an email – just let them know how you feel.
Dan Samson
CAMPBELL RIVER MIRROR
152 / Campbell River Thursday, November 5, 2020
New branch FAQs
Why are you building a new library in Campbell River?
The current space does not adequately serve the population of Campbell River. The Board of Trustees developed minimum size requirements as noted in the Consolidated Facilities Master Plan.
Residents of Campbell River need a library that can properly serve this growing and dynamic community. A true 21st Century library provides services and resources to families, businesses and entrepreneurs, artists, Indigenous communities, newcomers, and everyone else in the community.
For a growing city like Campbell River, the new library will become a showcase and centerpiece of innovation, learning, literacy, and connection.
Why was the downtown location selected?
The City chose this location as the most affordable and suitable re-development site within Campbell River’s cultural precinct.
As part of this project, the City of Campbell River is responsible for providing a serviced, construction-ready property. This includes demolishing the existing building, and providing sewage, water, drainage and CR Municipal Broadband service.
The existing property is City-owned, which reduces costs significantly. To develop on a privately-owned site, the City would have the added cost of purchasing a new property.
This location also aligns with Campbell River’s economic development goals and the community’s vision for a renewed and revitalized downtown core.
Public engagement during the City’s Downtown Refresh workshops established this downtown area as the preferred location for cultural facilities and spaces. The library combined with the Tidemark Theatre, Spirit Square, the community centre and art gallery are key components of the cultural precinct.
What is the current status of the new library?
We don’t have a firm date for when construction will start or the new library will open.
With the site now selected, VIRL is in the early stages of working with an architect and planning for a temporary location to continue to provide service. The City is actively preparing to demolish the building (scheduled for late 2021).
We’ll provide more information as details are confirmed.
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Campbell River Thursday, November 5, 2020 New branch FAQs
What is the budget for the new library? The budget of $14 million includes the cost of construction, furnishings, and technology infrastructure.
For the new library in Campbell River, funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Strathcona Regional District, who will transfer the borrowing proceeds to VIRL. Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Campbell River taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution.
Campbell River is one of 38 municipalities and regional districts, with a total population of almost 465,000, that comprise VIRL’s membership. As a co-op, members pool their resources to cover the costs of library services and important Capital Projects like the one in Campbell River. This sustainable costing model has allowed VIRL to build or refurbish 17 libraries since 2011 in communities large, small, and remote.
Once the new library is built, the City of Campbell River has committed to providing a no-cost lease to VIRL.
Will I have an opportunity to provide feedback about the new library?
Yes, VIRL and the City of Campbell River will provide opportunities for public feedback and ideas.
We are in the early stages of planning our public engagements and will provide more information as planning unfolds.
As part of the public engagement process, people will be able to share their preferences for services, amenities and design elements for the new facility.
Who can I talk to if I more questions or concerns?
If you have questions about the new library (design, services, amenities), please contact:
David Carson, Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives Vancouver Island Regional Library 250.327.3651 [email protected]
If you have questions about the site location, please contact: Julie Douglas, Communications Advisor City of Campbell River 250.286.5744 [email protected]
154 Director Brad Unger (left) was acclaimed as chair at the Nov. 4, 2020 SRD Board meeting, and director Claire Moglove was elected to the vice chair position. Photo supplied by Strathcona Regional District New chair chosen for SRD board Out-going director Michele Babchuk had held role, now going to Director Brad Unger
MARC KITTERINGHAM / Nov. 5, 2020 11:00 a.m. / LOCAL NEWS / NEWS
The Strathcona Regional District board has chosen it’s new chair and vice chair.
Director Brad Unger will be stepping in to the chair’s position, which he has held temporarily during previous chair Michele Babchuk’s run in the provincial election. Unger was the vice chair last year and was acclaimed at today’s SRD board meeting.
““It is an honour to be elected by my colleagues to lead the SRD Board and I appreciate the opportunity to advance our strategic initiatives and raise the profile of this organization within our region,” he said.
155 / Director Claire Moglove will be taking over as vice chair. The position of vice chair faced a vote, with director Jim Abram also in the running. Abram wanted to bring an electoral area voice to the executive side of the board, but was beaten in the election by Moglove, who has similar experience as Abram, but advocated for good governance and conflict resolution between the board’s directors.
“I see my role as hopefully being a sounding board to the Chair if issues arise and to work collaboratively with the Chair and our CAO to move and advance the Board’s strategic priorities,” said Moglove. “I’m a big advocate of good governance and look forward to helping in that regard as well.”
The board also nominated director Brenda Leigh as chair of the Vancouver Island Regional Library board and she is going into her third term in the role. Director Gerald Whalley was named as alternate director to that board.
Representatives to the various commissions will be chosen in a future meeting.
RELATED: Good timing for Babchuk’s seat replacement at SRD table
SRD looks into splitting hearings covering OCP and rezoning amendments
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LOCAL NEWS STRATHCONA REGIONAL DISTRICT
156 / Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 8 (b)
Correspondence
157 Saho Lindberg
Subject: Library closures and cost and use of staff. Attention: Rosemary Bonanno (Executive Director) and Vanessa Craig (Trustee)
----Original Message----- From: > Sent: May 2, 2020 9:39 PM To: Info
VIRL Libraries are closed and I am not getting value for the taxes I pay to support VIRL’s services. While e services are available, many, such as myself, find virtual services not good substitutes for the physical objects. What steps has the VIRL taken to provide physical access to books and magazines? I understand that some libraries have provided access though on-line ordering with books etc. being dispensed though a slot. I do not know what steps could be taken to sterilize books after use, but presumably they could be returned to a sterile area for a period until the virus was dead.
My second question relates to what branch library staff do when libraries are closed. Have staff been laid off or does the BCGEU agreement prevent this, resulting in them receiving full pay with reduced expenses for transportation, child care etc. Equally, what are VIRL’s management doing while branches are closed. Have any been laid off, or all enjoying full pay with reduced work load.
I trust that VIRL will not be asking for any increase in budget in the near future and that pay rises will be strictly limited.
Yours truly,
1
158 Saho Lindberg
Subject: FW: Access to Gabriola Library
From: [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, September 9, 2020 9:08 AM To: Executive Director
Dear Director,
The BC Centre for Disease Control says, in reply to the following question: Can You get COVID-19 from Books, DVDs and Other Library Materials? The main way that COVID-19 spreads is person-to-person. The risk of getting sick from borrowed library items is very low:
There is no evidence that the COVID-19 virus spreads through books, paper or other paper- based products.
The grocery store on Gabriola is open, as are all other stores and restaurants in the area. Some, but not all, limit the numbers of person in the store at any one time and some provide sanitary wipes at the entrance. In most cases staff face clients at close quarters. The risk of getting Covid is far higher for patrons and staff in many of these stores than it would be in the library. So why is the VIRL so slow in making the Gabriola Library open to the public. One can only assume that, without the financial need to provide service, the library is under no real pressure to do so and does not care about its customers.
With automated check out there is little need for staff to be involved with patrons, and it would be a simple matter fo put direction signs so that patrons could maintain appropriate distancing. Similarly, without the need to check out materials, desk staff would have time to monitor the number of persons in the library. I understand the VIRL is undertaking some experiments that allow the public into libraries, but the pace is far too slow. Other commercial operations with multiple branches have developed and rolled out safe models months ago.
I cannot support contributing to the library through my property tax when the service is so limited.
Please convey my displeasure to the VIRL Board.
Incidentally, I communicated my concerns about library closure to trustees and others some considerable time ago but received no response, indicating little,concern about service to patrons
Yours truly,
1
159 Administration Box 3333 | 6250 Hammond Bay Road Nanaimo, BC Canada V9R 5N3 t: 250.758.4697 f: 250.758.2482 e: [email protected] w: www.virl.bc.ca
September 10, 2020
Original via email:
Dear Re: Access to Gabriola Library
Let me start by apologizing for not responding to your email from May 2, 2020. We had every intention of issuing a letter to you and I thank you for your understanding during what was an incredibly busy time. As you can no doubt imagine, the logistics of safely coordinating the resumption of services over 39 branches and 42,000 square kilometres presents several challenges for a regional system such as ours. I am exceptionally proud of the job staff have done to safely open our Takeout service in communities large, small, and remote. We opened for Takeout on June 4 and are now offering the service at every one of our locations — a monumental achievement. I’d like to also provide you with some context going back to the decision to temporarily suspend in-branch services on March 16. When we made this decision, the vast majority of our unionized staff were issued notices of layoff. In the weeks following the suspension of in-branch services, a small team of unionized and exempt staff worked remotely to steer our organization through those challenging and rapidly developing times, and began to plan for how services could safely and strategically be phased back. In the immediate days after suspending in-branch services, we quickly pivoted and focused efforts on promoting and expanding VIRL’s digital offerings. This included: Expanding the number of always-available eBook and eAudiobook titles Introducing online card registration to sign up for VIRL membership Offering 24/7 WiFi service outside most VIRL branches Increasing access to the popular streaming TV and film platforms, Kanopy and AcornTV Promoting VIRL’s platforms and resources across all of our channels and to our community partners In April, we brought more staff back to begin working on our Alternate Services Team. Over the telephone, email, and via Zoom, these staff members ensured VIRL customers had a connection to help with online registration, using the digital library, and more. Staff quickly began organizing for the important and detailed tasks of preparing their branches for the resumption of services.
160 Page 2 of 2
This included:
Maintenance inspections and Risk Assessments at all of our 39 locations Securing and shipping the proper PPE for staff Developing the Safety Plans for our branches as mandated by WorkSafeBC Ensuring that our branches had the proper signage, spacing demarcation, and equipment to safely loan out materials Ensuring that staff had the training and confidence to perform their duties
More staff were brought back in May and June to help us prepare for additional services and digital programming.
In the first week of June, we began rolling out our Takeout Service model across our branches, which is now provided at all of our 39 branch locations. During that same time, we also launched an online book club that saw hundreds of people sign up to read and discuss Michael Christie’s Greenwood.
In July, we began to phase back in additional services, including access to our entire floating collection, opening Nanaimo Harbourfront to pilot a Walkthrough service, and assembling a Virtual Services team to plan out VIRL’s programming path ahead. We now also offer a Sit Down service in Bella Coola, Walkthrough at Nanaimo North and South Cowichan, and more branches are planning to resume additional services in the coming days.
On the programming side, while it is still not safe for us to offer programs inside our branches, we have developed a suite of online programs that have been extremely well received, including storytimes, author talks and interviews, books clubs, lifelong learning seminars, and more. I would encourage you to peruse our online events calendar for a taste of what we have to offer. Looking ahead, we will continue to expand our service delivery to serve our communities.
Zeroing in specifically on Gabriola Island, your branch is open for Takeout Service, meaning that you and all other VIRL members have access to the entirety of our physical collection. One of the main reasons we have opted to not yet increase service at the Gabriola branch is because of the renovations now underway. The construction has increased the number of people in the space and created other hazards; when this is factored into the context of trying to safely offer library services with COVID-19 remaining a reality, we believe keeping Takeout service only, at this time, is the safest and most prudent decision for everyone.
I understand just how important libraries are to so many in our communities. Whether it’s providing books to families, combatting social isolation for seniors, or offering a safe and welcoming space to people in need, libraries mean so much to so many and we are committed to providing services and supports to our communities as soon as it is safe to do so.
I hope this addresses your questions. If I can be of further assistance, please reach out anytime.
Sincerely,
Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Executive Director
cc: VIRL Board of Trustees VIRL Executive Leadership Group
161
From: To: Mariah Patterson Cc: Jim Abram; Clare Trevena Subject: RE: Opening of Quadra Island Library. Date: Friday, September 18, 2020 2:35:29 PM Attachments: 10EE7D8094DE496184D25176B7248486.png image001.png
Re Opening of Quadra Island: It is now the middle of September and we are still awaiting full opening of our local library. Yes I can order books and pick them up outside the door but I am a browser and find most interesting books by browsing the shelves. I would also like to point out that not everyone up here has a computer and the library computers are heavily used by those who have no computer. Seldom do you see an empty space. I do not understand why some libraries in Victoria are fully open and yet we are in this ridiculous situation of not being allowed into the library. I can go grocery shopping, and even have dental work done but cannot get into our library which my taxes pay for. We are paying for the librarians to be present although the work they are doing, finding books and re-shelfing returned books may not be the complete service we pay for or make best use of their talents. Sanitizer at the door, a set limit to the number of people in the library (it is never overcrowded normally) and safety screens for our librarians as well as regular cleaning would make it as safe as or safer than a grocery store. I can see it being totally shut down again if Covid numbers increase. My question is “What is going on?” I don’t enjoy paying for a service which is only half a service.
A disgruntled library user.
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
From: Mariah Patterson Sent: Thursday, June 25, 2020 12:12 PM To: Cc: Executive Leadership Group; Teresa Patterson - City of Parksville ([email protected]); Adam Walker - Town of Qualicum Beach ([email protected]); Andrew Fall - qathet Regional District ([email protected]); Andrew Hory - Mount Waddington RD ([email protected]); Barbara Fallot - Town of Sidney ([email protected]); Blaise Salmon - Cowichan Valley Regional District ([email protected]); Brenda Leigh - Strathcona Regional District ([email protected]); Brenda Patrick - Village of Gold River ([email protected]); Bruce Lloyd - Village of Port Alice ([email protected]); Candace Faulkner - Village of Zeballos ([email protected]); Carolyne Austin - Town of Lake Cowichan ([email protected]); Colleen Evans - City of Campbell River ([email protected]); Daniel Arbour ([email protected]); Debra Toporowski - Municipality of North Cowichan ([email protected]); Duncan McMaster - District of Tofino ([email protected]); Erin Hemmens - City of Nanaimo ([email protected]); Evan Putterill - North Coast RD ([email protected]); Fred Robertson - District of Port Hardy ([email protected]); Ian Gould - Village of Port Clements ([email protected]); Ian Savage - District of Lantzville ([email protected]); Jack McClintock - District of North Saanich ([email protected]); Jayme Kennedy - Central Coast RD ([email protected]);
162 Jeff Bateman - District of Sooke ([email protected]); Jeff Virtanen - Town of Ladysmith ([email protected]); Jennifer Capps - City of Duncan ([email protected]); Jesse Embree ([email protected]); Lynda Llewellyn - Village of Tahsis ([email protected]); Manno Theos - City of Courtenay ([email protected]); Marilyn McEwen - District of Ucluelet ([email protected]); Mayor Gaby Wickstrom - Town of Port McNeill ([email protected]); Mike Hicks - Capital Regional District ([email protected]); Nicole Minions - Town of Comox ([email protected]); Penny Cote - Alberni-Clayoquot RD([email protected]); Sharie Minions - City of Port Alberni ([email protected]); Terry Carty - Village of Masset ([email protected]); Vanessa Craig - Nanaimo Regional District ([email protected]); Vickey Brown ([email protected]) Subject: Re: Opening of Quadra Island Library. Importance: High
Good afternoon,
Please find attached a letter of response sent on behalf of Rosemary Bonanno, Executive Director, Vancouver Island Regional Library, regarding reopening our libraries.
Sincerely, Mariah
Mariah Patterson Executive Assistant Vancouver Island Regional Library Phone: 250-729-2310 Email: [email protected] Web: virl.bc.ca
This email may contain confidential information intended only for the individual or entity named. If the reader is not the intended recipient, or the agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is prohibited. If this email was received in error, please notify us by reply email and delete the original message.
From: > Date: June 12, 2020 at 2:58:21 PM PDT To: "[email protected]"
We have been without our library, seen as an essential service on Quadra Island by most of the population since the beginning of the shut down. I do not understand why it is not yet open. Remove most of the computers and limit the number of people inside, combined with hand sanitation and it would seem to me that you have eliminated the majority of the risk. The virus can only live on hard surfaces for up to 72 hours so returned books can be quarantined for that time. We are well aware how to maintain personal separation and the whole population has their own mask. We pay a considerable amount each year in our taxes for this service and we have a beautiful library. It is past time to open it. Most other libraries on the island have limited opening already.
163 There are numerous small neighbourhood libraries around the island which are heavily used and no problems have been reported. Care is necessary but it should not take the form of shutting down the facility when the danger of infection on the island is as low as it is.
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
164 Administration Box 3333 | 6250 Hammond Bay Road Nanaimo, BC Canada V9R 5N3 t: 250.758.4697 f: 250.758.2482 e: [email protected] w: www.virl.bc.ca
October 2, 2020
Original via email:
Dear :
Re: Opening of Quadra Island Library
Thank you for your concerns and suggestions about the level of service at our Quadra Island branch.
The branch has been open for Takeout Service for some time and I am pleased to inform you that we are very close to offering modified Sit Down services later this month. This will likely mean that customers can access public computers, browse the collection, and return to something closer to a pre-pandemic experience.
Since you mentioned GVPL in your email, I’d like to clarify that, as far as I know, no branches in Victoria are offering full services. It is my understanding that GVPL is offering modified services, very similar to what we are rolling out, in the branches that are open.
I understand just how important libraries are to so many in our communities. Whether it’s providing books to families, combatting social isolation for seniors, or offering a safe and welcoming space to people in need, libraries mean so much to so many and we are committed to providing services and supports to our communities in a safe and secure manner.
I hope this addresses your questions. If I can be of further assistance, please reach out any time.
Sincerely,
Melissa Legacy Director of Library Services and Planning
cc: The Hon. Claire Trevena MLA, Minister of Transportation & Infrastructure Jim Abram, Director, Strathcona Regional District VIRL Board of Trustees VIRL Executive Leadership Group
165
Mariah Patterson
Subject: VIRL re-opening
From: Date: September 22, 2020 at 11:24:04 AM PDT To: "[email protected]"
Good morning. This query may not be under your jurisdiction but I hope that you could help to clarify why Vancouver Island Regional Library continues to offer such limited services to the public.
I continue to be baffled as access to their facilities seem easy to control. The public are well used to proper hand sanitation and wearing of face coverings. Our Vancouver Island case count remains low. Yet most VIRL branches offer very limited opportunities to pick up and even to drop off books.
The challenges facing the opening of public schools were much more daunting than the opening of public libraries. Yet schools are open and VIRL services, mostly curtailed.
Are you involved in the decision to reopen VIRL facilities and what issues do they need to address?
Thank you.
1
166 Mariah Patterson
Subject: VIRL services
From: Date: September 22, 2020 at 11:13:37 AM PDT To: "[email protected]"
Good morning, Dr. Henry.
I continue to be baffled by the limited services provided by Vancouver Island Regional Library. Access to their facilities seem easy to control and the public are well used to proper hand sanitation and wearing of face coverings yet most are still only offering very limited opportunities to pick up and even to drop off books. The many other critical community services usually offered have not been available to the public since March.
Why do VIRL facilities remain mostly unavailable to the public?
Thank you.
Begin forwarded message:
From: Subject: VIRL services Date: September 22, 2020 at 11:06:36 AM PDT To: Susan Pierce
Yesterday I tried to return two books yesterday to the Parksville Library around 1:15 but couldn’t as your book deposit was locked with a note indicating that it would be open at 2:00. This seems unreasonable. Book drop-offs have never required adult supervision and especially seems unnecessary when one could assume that staff was inside at the time.
Many of us are following the recommendation to limit our errand running and outings to once a week or less. Your restricted hours often make it impossible to do that. Yesterday I had finished my Parksville errands about 1:15 minutes and again, it seems unreasonable that I would be expected to wait 45 minutes to be able to drop off books at 2:00.
It also seems unreasonable that we have such limited hours for book pick- ups. Staggered lunch hours and extended pick up hours do not see far-fetched especially when offered services offered to the public are so limited.
1
167 Which leads to my biggest beef: why aren’t you open yet? Our library is an important part of our community and it’s role has always been critical. That seems even more true when our community resources are so limited.
Library access seems easily controlled to follow the mandated covid rules- mask wearing and hand sanitizing and it seems very unfair and unnecessary for you to continued to be closed to the public. Science's initial concerns of the spreading of the virus by surface contact no longer seems to be a factor.
The obvious challenges facing the opening of public schools were much more daunting than the opening of public libraries. Yet schools are open and your services, mostly curtailed. I fail to see why and would appreciate an explanation as to why our libraries are unable to provide more services to our communities.
2
168 Administration Box 3333 | 6250 Hammond Bay Road Nanaimo, BC Canada V9R 5N3 t: 250.758.4697 f: 250.758.2482 e: [email protected] w: www.virl.bc.ca
September 30, 2020
Original via email:
Dear
Re: VIRL Re-opening
Thank you for reaching out and expressing your concerns about the services available at Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL).
In May, we implemented a Recovery Plan which outlined a phased approach to resuming library services, factoring in the BC Restart Plan and WorkSafe BC Protocols for Arts and Culture Facilities Reopening. The primary consideration every step of the way is the health and safety of staff and the public while providing services that libraries are uniquely positioned to offer in our communities.
I am exceptionally proud of the job staff have done to safely open for the Takeout phase of our Recovery Plan in communities large, small, and remote. We opened for Takeout on June 4 and are now offering the service at every one of our locations — a monumental achievement.
As you can no doubt imagine, the logistics of safely coordinating the resumption of services over 39 branches and 42,000 square kilometres presents several challenges for a regional system such as ours. Here’s a snapshot of what my staff undertook to ensure our branches were ready to safely welcome customers for the limited Takeout service: • Maintenance Inspections and Risk Assessments at all of our 39 locations • Securing and shipping the proper PPE for staff • Developing the Safety Plans for our branches as mandated by WorkSafeBC • Ensuring that our branches had the proper signage, spacing demarcation, and equipment to safely loan out materials • Ensuring staff had the training and confidence to perform their duties • Ensuring the public was aware of the services being offered
In July, we began to phase back in additional services, including access to our entire floating collection, opening Nanaimo Harbourfront to pilot a Walkthrough service, and assembling a Virtual Services team to plan out VIRL’s programming path ahead.
169
Page 2 of 2
We now also offer a Sit Down service in Bella Coola and Sayward, Walkthrough at Nanaimo North and South Cowichan, and more branches are planning to resume additional services in the coming weeks, including Parksville, which is slated to open for Walkthrough in October.
Your frustration regarding the book drop hours at the Parksville branch is noted. The reason we limited the times books could be returned was to avoid large pileups of returned materials, which were being quarantined, with zero contact from staff, for a 72-hour period. As our understanding of the virus continues to evolve, we are scaling back the quarantine period and have advised the Library Manager to keep the book drop in Parksville open 24 hours a day. This should take effect in very short order.
I understand just how important libraries are to so many in our communities. Whether it’s providing books to families, combatting social isolation for seniors, or offering a safe and welcoming space to people in need, libraries mean so much to so many and we are committed to providing services and support to our communities as soon as it is safe to do so.
Please monitor virl.bc.ca for the latest updates. Information will be shared with the public on our website before it is disseminated more widely. You can also sign up for our eNewsletter to have the library news and updates delivered straight to your inbox.
I hope this addresses your questions. If I can be of further assistance, please reach out any time.
Sincerely,
Rosemary Bonanno, BA MLS Executive Director cc: VIRL Board of Trustees Executive Leadership Group
170
From: To: Mariah Patterson Subject: Re: VIRL re-opening Date: October 2, 2020 9:09:00 AM
Thank you very much for forwarding the letter from Rosemary Bonanno, explaining so thoroughly the complicated factors involved in re-opening the VIRL library system. Providing service to so many communities with such a variety of factors would indeed be complex.
I appreciate that the book drop-off hours will be extended in Parksville and hope that courtesy will be extended to other branches, at least during daytime hours.
But I still fail to see how Library’s opening for take-out could be anywhere as complicated as schools re-opening in early June or local stores continuing to be open through even the early and very eerie first weeks of the pandemic.
With all the challenges that have faced our communities over the past now seven months, I cannot agree with Ms Bonanno’s statement, that having "opened for Takeout on June 4 and are now offering the service at every one of our locations — a monumental achievement.”
I cannot see VIRL facilities as a hotbed for spreading the virus let alone the Takeout service currently offered. Having a staff member stand at an open door, wearing a mask and handing books to a member of the public standing outdoors and in a mask, does not seem particularly dangerous. Especially here on Vancouver Island which has thankfully had relatively very few Covid infections over these difficult months.
VIRL services in the past have extended far beyond the taking out of books. Our communities need and deserve greater library access especially as the fall weather arrives. The role of the local library is critical to the mental, social and intellectual well being of our communities similar to the role played by public education. Please put your complete efforts into increasing VIRL services as soon as possible
On Sep 30, 2020, at 4:50 PM, Mariah Patterson
Good afternoon,
Please find attached a letter of response sent on behalf of Rosemary Bonanno, Executive Director, Vancouver Island Regional Library, regarding VIRL re- opening.
Sincerely, Mariah
171 Board of Trustees Meeting November 21, 2020 Item 8 (c)
Media Releases
172
Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New library coming to Campbell River
Wednesday, September 16, 2020 – A new library in downtown Campbell River is moving ahead. This month, Campbell River Council affirmed its support of the project to see a two-storey, 20,000 square foot facility on the site of the current branch at 1240 Shoppers Row.
“Campbell River Council and staff have always been clear that a new library is an important piece in the City’s economic development plans and in their commitment to revitalizing downtown,” says Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board Chair, Brenda Leigh. “With the support of Council, we can formally get this project underway and construct a facility that will complement the City’s goals and provide a world class library for the entire Strathcona region. I would like to thank everyone involved in this project for bringing us to this exciting day.”
The Victoria-based architectural firm, Low Hammond Rowe (LHR), will design the new library. VIRL has a successful history of working with LHR in the past on the design of the Nanaimo North branch and the renovation of the Sidney/North Saanich branch. The firm has also been the vision behind many exciting projects at academic institutions and other large-scale projects.
“We look forward to a new library and the new energy it will bring for our downtown,” says Mayor Andy Adams. “A new facility at this location will help address some of the current challenges we have in this area. We encourage community members to participate in future public consultation events and learn how the building design will provide a safe and welcoming environment, as has been done in other communities.”
Mayor Adams adds, “With Campbell River’s growing technology sector, the timing is right to expand library services. Contemporary libraries offer all kinds of resources, including meeting and digital activity spaces. We encourage all community members to stay tuned for opportunities to influence what’s available in our new library.”
VIRL and the City will host two shared public consultations events. The first will gather feedback and ideas on the design and features of the library; the second will present the proposed renderings and provide answers to outstanding questions. More information, including dates, locations and formats, will be provided as it becomes available.
173
The budget of $14 million includes the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure, and site preparation. Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Strathcona Regional District, who will transfer the borrowing proceeds to VIRL. Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Campbell River taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution.
The City of Campbell River has committed to providing a no-cost lease to VIRL, demolishing the existing facility, and to servicing the site with sewage, water, drainage and CR Municipal Broadband service.
Later this year, a meeting between VIRL and the City of Campbell River will review the processes and outline the next steps for the project, including a proposed location for temporary library services during construction as well as construction start date and timeline.
Visit virl.bc.ca or campbellriver.ca for updates as the project progresses.
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For more information David Carson, Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives Vancouver Island Regional Library 250.327.3651 [email protected]
Julie Douglas, Communications Advisor City of Campbell River 250.286.5744 [email protected]
174
Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Vancouver Island Regional Library is Stronger Than Ever with 2021 Budget
September 19, 2020, Nanaimo, BC – The Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board of Trustees is has adopted the 2021 – 2025 Financial Plan, Retooling: Stronger Than Ever. Together.
At the September 19 meeting, the Board adopted a balanced budget of $39,333,061 for 2021. Municipal and regional levies will contribute $24,500,529 to the Library budget, an average increase of 1.87% over 2020. The Budget was supported by all Trustees in attendance.
“In developing this budget, we had to balance the ongoing and uncertain effects of the COVID-19 pandemic with our need to press forward, innovate, and evolve our services,” says Joel Adams, VIRL’s Director of Finance. “Our Board of Trustees needs to be recognized for having the vision and understanding to take the long view in their adoption of this budget. Thanks to their vision, we can continue to provide leading edge library services to the communities we serve.”
“This budget recognizes the ongoing challenges we all face as a result of COVID-19,” says Brenda Leigh, Chair of the VIRL Board of Trustees. “By focusing on the future, we are positioning VIRL as a leader to help individuals, businesses, and communities emerge from these unprecedented times united, motivated, and stronger than ever.”
For more information about the 2021– 2025 Financial Plan, visit https://virl.bc.ca/about/reports-and-plans/.
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For more information David Carson, Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives Direct: 250.753.1154 ex 248 Cell: 250.327.3651 Email: [email protected]
175
Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Work to begin shortly on new Sooke library
Tuesday, September 22, 2020 – The permits have been issued, the pre-planning is complete, the wait is finally over…construction is set to begin on a state-of-the-art new library for the District of Sooke. Once complete, the community will have access to more than 13,000 square feet of space to browse materials, conduct meetings, access technology, build new connections, and so much more.
“It certainly has been a journey getting to this exciting point,” says Brenda Leigh, Chair of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board of Trustees. “I would like to thank the community for their patience as we worked through the challenges of planning within a sustained period of intensive development on the Island, revising the design to align with the Budget and the District’s development vision, and all of the other pieces that needed to fall into place for a project of this scope. VIRL and District of Sooke staff are to be commended for never losing sight of the end goal and for steering us all to this momentous day.”
Features and amenities of the new branch:
13,412 square feet will offer a diverse collection, multiuse spaces, and more Iconic circular design will become a cornerstone of the community Exciting opening day collection curated for the community Increased staffing Expanded hours of operation Expanded program schedule Vibrant children’s area Fireplace lounge area Laptop bar Study space Bookable rooms
“The District of Sooke is poised for significant growth and development in the years ahead,” says Maja Tait, Sooke Mayor. “From a community development perspective, we recognize that libraries are quality of life spaces that make communities more attractive, vibrant, and desirable. Despite the ongoing challenges of COVID-19, these are exciting times for the District, and the new library aligns seamlessly with our goals
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for the future. Our entire community will be stronger and more connected when the new Sooke library opens to the public. This is an exciting day for everyone.”
The circular design is the vision of the talented architects at HDR, a firm with extensive experience designing libraries, academic buildings, community centres, health facilities, and more. VIRL has awarded Nanaimo-based Island West Coast Developments (IWCD) as the general contractor to oversee the project. IWCD has more than 30 years’ experience managing projects for a wide variety of services and clients.
The budget of $7.5 million includes the cost of construction, furnishings, technology infrastructure, and site preparation. Funding was secured through a loan from the Municipal Finance Authority to the Capital Regional District who transferred the borrowing proceeds to VIRL. Because VIRL is a regional system with a pooled budget, the costs of the new library will be shared by member jurisdictions rather than paid for by Sooke taxpayers alone through their regional district contribution.
Looking ahead, the next step is to work with IWCD on a construction timeline, which will be shared with the public when it becomes available. The latest news and updates about this project will be posted in the Capital Projects area of virl.bc.ca.
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For more information David Carson, Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives 250.327.3651 Email: [email protected]
Mayor Maja Tait District of Sooke Tel: (250) 642-1634 Email: [email protected]
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Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cowichan library opens for Walkthrough service
Tuesday, September 29, 2020 – Vancouver Island Regional Library’s (VIRL) Cowichan branch has joined Nanaimo North, South Cowichan, and Nanaimo Harbourfront to offer Walkthrough library services to their communities. The branch has thorough safety measures in place to limit the number of people accessing it at any one time, is ensuring adherence to all prescribed physical distancing measures, and is providing access to a limited browsing collection for customers to check out.
The Walkthrough service starts today at 1pm.
“It is so exciting to see our Cowichan branch opening up for Walkthrough service,” says Melissa Legacy, VIRL’s Director of Library Services and Planning. “We know from experience that our communities are responding very well to this limited in-branch service and I have no doubt that our Cowichan branch will provide important connections and access to community members.”
Part of VIRL’s phased approach to the resumption of library services, the library offers:
A walkthrough area to browse a limited collection Self-checkout Fee payments Grab and Go bags Walkthrough hours are Monday – Friday, 1 – 4pm Materials can be returned Monday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm Takeout is still available Monday – Saturday, 10am – 12pm
Customers who would like to access the limited browsing collection must have their library cards with them and use the self-check-out machines in the branch. The branch will continue to offer takeout services for those who would prefer to use this service.
For everyone’s safety, customers are asked to adhere to all posted safety information and the directives of staff. During this first phase of walkthrough service, there will be no access to the public washrooms, computers, or seating area.
VIRL is also now offering inter-branch deliveries of materials to provide customers with access to the entire collection, and an expanded suite of virtual programs and services.
For more information about the services and resources offered at VIRL, visit virl.bc.ca.
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Media Contact David Carson, Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives Cell: 250.327.3651 Email: [email protected]
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Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
VIRL’s Port Clements branch opens for Sit Down Service
Friday, October 2, 2020 – Vancouver Island Regional Library’s (VIRL) Port Clements has opened for Sit Down service. Customers can now visit the branch to browse the collection, sit down to enjoy a book, and use a public computer for internet access, word processing, and more. The branch has thorough safety measures in place to limit the number of people accessing it at any one time and is ensuring adherence to all prescribed physical distancing measures.
“This is an important step forward for our customers on Haida Gwaii,” says Melissa Legacy, VIRL’s Director of Library Services and Planning. “By opening the branch for Sit Down, customers can enjoy their library and return to something closer to a pre-pandemic experience. I know the community is going to respond well to this increased service level.”
Part of VIRL’s phased approach to the resumption of library services, the library offers:
Access to the complete browsing collection Self-checkout Fee payments Access to a single public computer 24/7 drop box access to return library materials Walkthrough hours are Tuesday – Thursday, 4 – 7pm and Saturday from 10am – 12pm and 1 – 4pm Takeout is still available Tuesday – Thursday, 3 – 4pm and Saturday, 12 – 12:30pm
Customers who would like to access the browsing collection must have their library cards with them and use the self-check-out machines in the branch. The branch will continue to offer takeout services for those who would prefer to use this service.
For everyone’s safety, customers are asked to adhere to all posted safety information and the directives of staff.
VIRL is also now offering inter-branch deliveries of materials to provide customers with access to the entire collection, and an expanded suite of virtual programs and services.
Port Clements joins VIRL’s Bella Coola and Sayward branches in offering Sit Down service. There are plans to open the Queen Charlotte branch for Sit Down in mid-October.
For more information about the services and resources offered at VIRL, visit virl.bc.ca.
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Media Contact David Carson, Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives Cell: 250.327.3651 Email: [email protected]
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Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Construction begins on New Sooke Library
Wednesday, October 14, 2020, Sooke, BC – After months of planning, negotiations, refinements, and fine-tuning the design, construction on the striking new library on Wadams Way in Sooke is set to start. During the week of October 19, workers will begin by preparing site surveys, clearing trees and brush, cutting in an access road, and mobilizing the site for construction.
“For many in the community, this day has been a long time coming,” says Brenda Leigh, Chair of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board of Trustees. “I expect the people of Sooke will watch with interest and excitement as this important capital project takes shape. In a year like no other, it is especially heartening to move forward with such a well needed and long awaited community amenity.”
The plan for the new library encompasses all aspects of the project, including construction, furniture, IT infrastructure, and more.
“We have a clear vision for the future development and growth of our community,” says Sooke Mayor, Maja Tait. “A vibrant and modern library was an important piece in our plans — I have full confidence that with this library, we are setting the wheels in motion for ongoing and sustainable development of Lot A, the Wadams Way corridor, and surrounding area.”
Once built, Sooke will have a state-of-the-art library with the following features and amenities:
13,412 square feet will offer a diverse collection, multiuse spaces, and more Iconic circular design will become a cornerstone of the community Exciting opening day collection curated for the community Increased staffing Expanded hours of operation Expanded program schedule Vibrant children’s area Fireplace lounge area Laptop bar Study space
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Bookable rooms
“As someone who has been working on this file for years, there were times when I wondered whether we would ever get to this day,” says Rosemary Bonanno, VIRL’s Executive Director. “In every way, this has been a true team effort and I would like to thank District of Sooke staff, our Board of Trustees, Sooke Mayor and Council, VIRL staff, and, of course, the community for never losing sight of the end goal. This new library will evolve and complement Sooke’s ongoing transition into a destination of choice for people living and visiting south of the Malahat.”
Renderings of the new library are included with this release. More information about the project is available here.
Projecting outward, the new library is likely to open to the public in the spring of 2022.
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For more information David Carson, Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives Direct: 250.753.1154 ex 248 Cell: 250.327.3651 Email: [email protected]
Mayor Maja Tait District of Sooke Tel: .250.642.1634 Email: [email protected]
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Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Almost all VIRL branches set to offer expanded services this week
Tuesday, October 27, 2020 – This is a big week in the resumption of services at Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL). Staff across the system have been hard at work prepping their branches to welcome customers inside, and the vast majority are slated to open this week for limited in-branch service. Reflecting the unique aspects of their branch layouts and the communities they serve, some branches will offer Walkthrough service of a limited collection, while others will open their entire collection, offer a Sit Down service, and provide public computer access.
“The openings we’re seeing this week are a direct result of the hard work, dedication, and resilience our staff have demonstrated despite the challenges the pandemic has created,” says Melissa Legacy, VIRL’s Director of Library Services and Planning. “The phased approach we’ve taken, starting with Takeout, has allowed us to safely bring more services on board, develop best practices as we go, and ensure we are responding to the needs of our communities. I would like to thank all of the branch staff for bringing us to this important milestone.”
The following branches have already opened their doors and invite community members inside:
Nanaimo Harbourfront Nanaimo North Nanaimo Wellington Bowser Cowichan (Duncan) South Cowichan Quadra Island Sayward Bella Coola Sointula Port Clements Queen Charlotte City
Almost all other branches are in the process of opening and most will open this week. However, the following branches will continue to offer Takeout service only until further notice:
Union Bay Port Renfrew Woss (new branch under construction) Sandspit
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For everyone’s safety, customers are asked to adhere to all posted safety information and the directives of staff, including limiting the number of people allowed inside at a time and maintaining proper a proper physical distance. All customers are encouraged to wear masks when visiting the library.
Customers must have their library cards with them and use the self-checkout machines, when available. Branches will continue to offer Takeout services for those who would prefer to use this service. VIRL will continue to waive all late fees but asks that customers return and renew materials per due dates to ensure everyone has equal opportunity.
For information about the specific services and resources offered at VIRL branches, visit virl.bc.ca/services/.
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Media Contact David Carson, Director, Corporate Communications and Strategic Initiatives Cell: 250.327.3651 Email: [email protected]
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