The Ontario government is increasing funding by $1.25 million annually for First Nations public libraries across the province.
Stan Cho, the minister of tourism, culture, and gaming, made the announcement at the Rama Public Library, located inside the Rama MASK, on Wednesday morning. The library is one of 37 First Nations libraries in Ontario.
Cho said the announcement to increase funding was a quarter century in the making.
"This is a 170 per cent increase to allow First Nations libraries to do what they do best," he said. "They are vital community hubs and special places of gathering that help connect communities and keep that cultural vibrancy moving forward."
This enhanced funding will be provided to eligible First Nations public libraries across the province through two existing library support programs: the First Nation Salary Supplement (FNSS) and Public Library Operating Grant (PLOG).
Annual FNSS allocations will increase from $13,000 to up to $35,000 per eligible library to support the retention and hiring of librarians and support staff. Additionally, current PLOG allocations for First Nations public libraries will double, with a minimum annual grant of $1,500 per eligible library provided to help ensure stable operations.
Cho says it’s fitting the announcement comes just days after the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation and during First Nations Public Library Week.
"That road to truth and reconciliation is not an easy one," he said. "But by this announcement, our government wants to signal very clearly that we want to be your partner in the First Nations and go on that journey to truth and reconciliation."
Cho says he will always remember Wednesday's announcement as it's one of the more "special moments" of his career as a politician.
Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop, the province's minister of education, says the increased funding proves the provincial government's commitment to supporting First Nations communities and their places of learning.
"Libraries like this are at the heart of our communities," she said. "They provide not only access to knowledge, but they also foster cultural connection and community engagement."
Dunlop says the impact of the funding announcement will be felt in communities across the province.
"With today's investment, our government is ensuring that these libraries continue to play their important role for generations to come," she said.
Rama First Nation Head Councillor Ted Snache thanked Cho and Dunlop for their advocacy on Wednesday morning and for recognizing the importance of libraries.
"Our public library was built in 1998 and has had a huge impact on our children, youth, and adults," he said. "It's a place of community pride and it's a safe place."
Snache says every community in Ontario should have a public library, describing it as a place where hopes and dreams are born. He says libraries give members of the community the "power to prosper."
