The Markdale branch of the Grey Highlands Public Library celebrated recent upgrades with an open house this week.
On Tuesday, August 27, the library in Markdale held at open house and Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Rick Byers was on hand to congratulate the library on work it has done after receiving a $50,100 Resilient Communities Fund grant in 2022 from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF).
“Congratulations to the Grey Highlands Public Library on your success in receiving the Trillium Foundation grant. It is great to see how these funds have been used so well to enhance the services for the community and the work environment for library staff” said MPP Rick Byers, MPP Bruce Grey Owen Sound.
The recent upgrades, supported by the OTF grant, focused on essential renovations to the library’s staff work spaces, the installation of air purifiers, the development of a strategic plan, and comprehensive board and staff training. These enhancements aim to create a more efficient and supportive work environment for library staff and ensure the library’s operations are more effective and responsive to community needs.
“The Ontario Trillium Foundation grant has been instrumental in improving our facilities and planning for the future,” said Jeff Rosenburg, branch manager at the Walter Harris Memorial Branch in Markdale. “With these upgrades, we are better equipped to serve our patrons and foster a more productive and healthy work environment for our team.”
The library’s open house also featured live demonstrations of new technology, including 3D printing, Cricut Mug Press, Digital Whiteboard, and Cricut Heat Press. These demonstrations are part of the library’s ongoing commitment to engaging with the community and showcasing innovative tools available for public use.
The Walter Harris Memorial Branch continues to be a vital resource in the community, dedicated to providing a range of services and programs to enhance learning and engagement. More information about the library’s offerings and upcoming events can be found at the website here.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit the website to learn more.
