Caledon Public Library (CPL) was recently shortlisted for the Minister’s Award for Innovation at the 2022 Ontario Public Library Service Awards for CPL’s Community Connections project.
The Minister’s Award for Innovation, given by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, recognizes successful new approaches that demonstrate a positive impact in a community and are of continued value to public libraries.
“Although we did not win, we are pleased that our unique and growing partnerships with Bethell Hospice and Caledon Community Services, to extend the reach of digital services and help to bridge the digital divide, have been recognized.” said Colleen Lipp, CEO and Chief Librarian of Caledon Public Library. “The Community Connections initiative supports the Caledon community by helping them to connect with loved ones, attend virtual events, gather information, alleviate isolation and providing residents with access to critical services and resources during challenging times.”
The Library pre-loaded digital content onto tablets that Bethell Hospice provided in each of their 10 private resident rooms. CPL also created Community Connection Kits, which include a Chromebook and Internet hotspot, and partnered with Caledon Community Services to ensure those with a demonstrable need had access to them. Within the Community Connections project, local organizations reached beyond their walls to share information and resources with library users and the Caledon community with CPL’s Community Corner.
“This is all part of how Caledon Public Library empowers community connections, sparks innovation and creativity, and energizes the transfer of knowledge. We will have more exciting news to share once our Margaret Dunn Valleywood Branch renovation has been completed. The community will be invited to use our new recording studio, maker tools, collaboration spaces and more,” added Lipp. “You’ll definitely want to see how we continue to grow and innovate in order to respond to community needs.”
For more information on Caledon Public Library and its many innovations, visit caledon.library.on.ca
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