Surrey Public Libraries Annual Report 2018

MESSAGE FROM Board Chair and Chief Librarian

MESSAGE FROM the Mayor

2018 was another year of tremendous growth for Surrey Libraries programs and services designed to meet the diverse needs of our city’s residents. Over the past year, Surrey Libraries launched several innovative programs for residents with specific needs,

DougMcCallum

Karen Reid Sidhu Board Chair

Surinder Bhogal Chief Librarian

such as sensory storytime for those with autism and new Baby Welcoming events for new parents. These types of initiatives allow the Library to reach out to our community and provide a place for all to learn, share and connect. I want to congratulate Surrey Libraries on another successful year serving the needs of our growing and diverse community. Looking ahead, I am excited that library services will soon expand with the new Clayton Library, which is now well under construction. I welcome you to make full use of all the resources and services Surrey Libraries offer. With free access to books, magazines, videos, digital materials, language learning platforms, and so much more there are ample reasons to stop in at your local branch today. From lifelong learning and social programs, books and digital assets, to interactive exhibits and live performances – there’s something for everyone at Surrey Libraries. Sincerely, Doug McCallum Mayor

This past year was one to reflect and plan. Surrey Libraries has been evolving to meet the needs of one of the fastest growing cities in Canada. The increased number of people visiting our branches, using our online resources, and participating in our programming all point to Surrey Libraries’ standing as a vital community hub and resource. We put a great deal of energy into developing our new 2019–2023 Strategic Plan which will guide our priorities for the coming years. The Plan was the product of extensive community consultation. Thank you to everyone who provided feedback through our surveys, public consultations, and stakeholder meetings. We’re very proud of the ongoing work Surrey Libraries undertakes to support literacy and learning in our community. For example, in 2018, our mobile circulation outreach services increased by 76%. Also, our Youth Services department created a service model which will help shape consistent delivery of children’s programming across our branches. Thank you to the City of Surrey and the Province of British Columbia for their ongoing support and recognition of the value of libraries in our communities. Our appreciation is also extended to the many volunteers, donors, community partners, and patrons for their support. Finally, our thanks to the Board and staff of Surrey Libraries for their continued dedication in providing outstanding dedication and service to our community.

2018 LIBRARY BOARD

Nancy Stewart, Stanley Chang, Neelam Sahota, Dave Woods, Karen Reid Sidhu, Michael Kendler, Louise Hearty, Muzna Zafar, (Absent: Greg Down, Austin Uzama, Connie Hong)