It appears there are more people making visits to the Moncton library.
Officials provided an update to Moncton City Council last week, on the most recent stats.
In 2023/24, 5176 new membership cards were handed out, that’s a 26 per cent increase over the previous year, with many of them newcomers.
Aside from books, the Moncton Public Library provides other services to the community, including tax workshops for newcomers, financial literacy programs and book clubs.
It’s also known as a place where people can bring their families, whether it is for services for children, newcomers or seniors finding a space to gather.
In 2023/2024, 264,119 items including books and audio-visual products were borrowed from the library.
With the growing population, Councillor Bryan Butler inquired as to whether or not there has been consideration given to a second library in the city.
“We share the same appreciation and there’s an interest in setting up a library. This is a conversation we’ve had within the board. The city staff started to work with a consultant for a feasibility study about the future of library facilities a few months ago. I believe this will be presented to council very soon,” Library Director Chantal Bellemare responded.
She adds that their doors are open seven days a week and they see people of all kinds coming in.
“Everyone is welcome at the library. In the winter, people come just to find a warm place or be sheltered from the elements. Same thing in the summer, people come for water, the washroom, just having a place where to read, and have a nap in a chair. In the library, you don’t need to purchase anything. You can just spend the day there and do whatever you need to do,” Bellemare adds.
In 2023/2024, 135,982 visitors stopped at the Moncton Public Library.
