$10,000 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government Gives Library a Technology Boost

Honey Harbour, ON – On Saturday, MPP Graydon Smith was at the Georgian Bay Public Library to hear more about the $10,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant it received earlier this year from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The grant, applied for through the Township, was used to purchase a set of laptops for digital literacy training and organizational flexibility. The project will increase the library’s ability to enhance digital literacy training and creative programming within the community.

“I am proud that our government is providing funding to expand digital literacy programming services for Township of Georgian Bay residents beyond the library walls,” said Parry Sound-Muskoka MPP Graydon Smith. “Through this support, our government is encouraging access to the technology of today and helping people feel comfortable using it, especially in our more rural communities. We're ensuring that our rural communities get the support and resources they need to grow and thrive.”

Georgian Bay Public Library has seen a steady increase in program needs following the return to in person services. Ontario Trillium Foundation funds will be used to purchase a set of laptops that will allow staff to provide digital literacy training to residents, creative programming opportunities, and enhanced children’s programming with a STEAM/coding focus.

“Georgian Bay Public Library has seen an increase in usage over the past two years following the return to in person Library programs and services. With the support of the Trillium Fund we are now able to offer a modernized selection of program offerings including tech help, creative maker programs, and eventually coding classes for children to support the growth within our community.” – Stephanie Clare, CEO, Georgian Bay Public Library

The Georgian Bay Public Library is an integral community hub that seeks to enrich community life by fostering access to life-long learning, literacy, knowledge and information for all ages in a welcoming environment. Summer programming will begin soon at the Library, to find out more visit www.gbpl.ca

“Non-profit organizations across Ontario deliver programming that makes a difference,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “That’s why funding that my ministry is providing through the OTF is so important. Our government wants to ensure that these programs and spaces remain the heart of communities across our province.”

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 otf.ca to learn more.

Organization Contact for Media Inquiries:

Stephanie Clare, CEO Georgian Bay Public Library

705-529-5404

Sclare.gbplibrary@gbtownship.ca