Westlock played host to a high profile guest last week when Alberta’s culture minister Heather Kilmchuk came for a visit.
Klimchuk was in town on Nov. 7 to visit the Westlock Library, as well as meet with representatives of the Cultural Arts Theatre Society and members of town council. The meetings were in addition to stops she made in Morinville earlier in the day.
Library director Doug Whistance-Smith led Klimchuk through the facility, showing off what makes the library special, as well as the improvements government grants had allowed the library to make.
One thing that really piqued Klimchuk’s interest was the collection of animals located near the children’s area, part of the “Pets in the Library” program for which the library was recognized by the Alberta Library Trustees Association earlier this year.
“You have a whole farm here!” she exclaimed.
Also part of the tour was showing off the front counter and new boardroom furniture, all courtesy of the province’s Community Initiatives Program grant. The front desk was thanks to the 2010 CIP grant, while the boardroom was the result of this year’s grant funding, Whistance-Smith said.
After the tour had ended, Klimchuk said she was impressed with the whole facility. “It’s a fantastic space,” she said. “I love the size and the energy, and seeing so many people.”
Klimchuk said she is enamoured with libraries, calling them community hubs where people can gather. They’re also places that will continue to serve a purpose, even as their core business evolves.
“With technology advancing, some people think they’ll go away, but there will always be a need for libraries,” she said.
“They’re safe and welcoming places. I love libraries.”
Library board chair Dr. Tanya Pollard said she was very happy to see the library busy Thursday afternoon, as it showed how well used the library is.
Culture is a big part of what the library does, she said, adding she is proud to show off everything the library has to offer.
As much as showing off the library was an important part of the afternoon, she said there was a bit of salesmanship going on as well.
“We want to show the government that the library is a big part of the community, and advocate to higher levels of government for more money and attention,” Pollard said.
