The Chatham-Kent Public Library (CKPL) is thriving according to an annual report.
The report, presented to council on July 14, highlights a year of record-setting digital borrowing, expanded outreach, and a rise in in-person visits as the library continues to adapt to community needs.
“People want to come to the library,” said Stefanie Lawson, CK’s manager of Public Services. “Because it is a place where they belong regardless of age, background or income.”
In total, 946,772 items were borrowed across CKPL’s 11 branches — up more than 66,000 from 2023, just missing the library’s one million item goal.
“There were over 644,00 physical items borrowed this year, and physical circulation still accounts for 68 per cent of items borrowed,” said Lawson.
Not to be outdone, virtual borrowing saw a 28 percent increase, with more than 301,000 electronic items downloaded.
2024 also saw the launch of a new courier van, which connects 11 library branches with over 50 other municipal locations in communities across Chatham-Kent with information as well as collection items. Branches also added new 5G Mi-Fi hotspots in partnership with Connect CK.
“The jump in outreach connections and program offerings underscores CKPL’s mission to engage, inspire, connect, and involve all CK residents. These achievements confirm the dedication of staff, their support of patrons, and the value the library brings to Chatham-Kent,” Lawson said in the report.
