Public Libraries at the Center of the Election Issues

With less than two weeks to go before the provincial election, the Association of Public Libraries of Quebec (ABPQ) has released the political parties’ responses to its key requests regarding the development of public libraries.

In particular, the Association asked the political parties about human resources, collections, infrastructure, and the social role of libraries.

According to the ABPQ, autonomous public libraries need 765 additional library technicians and 461 additional librarians. In particular, it is calling for a workforce assessment, a hiring assistance program, and a campaign to promote careers in the sector.

Regarding collections, the ABPQ is calling for a $2 million annual increase in funding for the collection development assistance program.

In terms of infrastructure, the Association estimates that the network has a shortfall of more than 145,000 square meters and more than 16,000 seats. It is calling for a renovation, expansion, and construction program funded 67% by the province of Quebec and 33% by municipalities.

The ABPQ also highlights the growing social role of libraries, which provide a welcoming space for people experiencing isolation, precarious living conditions, or distress.

The parties’ responses are published in full on the ABPQ’s election platform. The Association notes that it does not assign any grades or establish any rankings, so that the public can review each party’s commitments directly.