Thompson-Nicola Regional Library Enhances Services with New Hours and Equipment

The Thompson-Nicola Regional Library (TNRL) has announced changes to operating hours and upgraded equipment at its branches in Barriere and Clinton. As of this month, the Clinton Library will operate four days a week, an increase from the previous three days. The Barriere Library will also adjust its hours to better accommodate patron usage, according to a press release from Melissa Lowenberg, manager of community libraries and engagement for TNRL.

Both adjustments are designed to be cost-neutral and follow a thorough analysis of library usage patterns, as well as feedback gathered from surveys conducted in spring. The new hours aim to enhance accessibility for the community and reflect the needs of library users.

Investment in Infrastructure and Technology

In addition to the revised hours, the TNRD board of directors has approved the reallocation of $20,712 to fund a new furnace and heat pump for the Barriere Library. This decision comes from underspending on the branch’s radon mitigation project. The current Barriere Library, built in 2004, will receive an upgraded heating system to improve energy efficiency. The existing furnace and air conditioning unit are original to the building and will be replaced with more efficient systems.

Furthermore, the board has allocated $18,000 for new video conferencing and presentation equipment at the Kamloops and North Kamloops Libraries. This technology will enable community members to make digital presentations and participate in video conferences when using meeting rooms. It will also support staff training and enhance library programming.

New Operating Hours

The adjusted hours for both libraries are as follows:

Barriere Library

– Monday: Closed
– Tuesday: 11:00 to 17:00
– Wednesday: 13:00 to 17:00
– Thursday: 13:00 to 19:00
– Friday: 13:00 to 17:00
– Saturday: 11:00 to 15:00
– Sunday: Closed

Clinton Library

– Monday: Closed
– Tuesday: 11:00 to 14:00
– Wednesday: 13:00 to 17:00
– Thursday: 15:00 to 19:00
– Friday: Closed
– Saturday: 11:00 to 15:00
– Sunday: Closed

These enhancements reflect TNRL’s commitment to better serve its communities and adapt to the evolving needs of library patrons. For a complete list of hours for all TNRL branches, additional details can be found on their official website.