St. Marys library announces service level changes for Perth South residents

A recent decision by the Council of the Township of Perth South is changing the way that Perth South residents can use the St. Marys Public Library.

Last month, Perth South Council voted to cut funding for library services and asked the St. Marys library to significantly reduce its annual budget request.

The Library Board declined, given that St. Marys residents already subsidize library services for their neighbours in Perth South.

As a result, Perth South residents no longer have access to the library’s physical collections, e-resources, programs, computer services, printing, or Perth County Information Network resources.

“This was an extremely difficult decision for the Board to make,” says Cole Atlin, Chair of the St. Marys Public Library Board. “We would like to continue to offer services to Perth South, but not at the expense of St. Marys’ residents.”

She adds: “We hope Perth South Council will reconsider its decision so we can once again provide high quality library services for all.”

Despite the limitations on what Perth South residents can borrow and access, they are still welcome to visit the library and browse resources inside the building.

“The library remains a free and safe space for everyone, including Perth South residents,” says Library CEO Sarah Andrews.

“We encourage anyone in Perth South who is concerned about changes to library services to speak to their Council members,” she continues. “It is our sincere hope that we will once again be able to offer library services to Perth South residents in the future.”

More information about the changes to library services for Perth South residents is available at www.townofstmarys.com/libraryservices. Questions can be directed to Andrews at 519-284-2340, ext. 723 or sandrews@town.stmarys.on.ca.

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For media inquiries:
Brett O’Reilly, Corporate Communications Manager
519-284-2340, ext. 432 | boreilly@town.stmarys.on.ca