Where does the Library’s money come from?
The Nakusp Public Library is funded by a grant-in-aid from the Regional District of Central Kootenay; this is generated from property taxes collected in the Village of Nakusp and a defined portion of Area K.
The library also receives an annual operating grant from the Ministry of Education of the government of British Columbia. The Ministry has also given the library grants to manage the BC One Card Initiative, for participation in the interlibrary loan program, for technological improvements, and for special projects. The Ministry of Education also helps to support the Kootenay Library Federation (http://klf.bclibrary.ca/) which aids the library with author readings and other projects.
Fund raising projects play an important role in raising revenue: the Annual Collection Fund Drive, the Silent Auction, The Annual Book and Bake Bazaar, raffles, and other projects.
In addition, the library applies for various grants from government and private organizations. Nakusp Healthy Families Group has been very helpful to the Library.
Personal and local business donations also make vital contributions. Many of the library’s 40 magazine subscriptions are donated by individuals and businesses. Donations have also been made to purchase specific items such as furniture and computers.
“Sarah’s Corner, the young children’s section, is a special place in the library. Since 1976, the library has received donations from Sarah Van’s family to purchase young children’s books in memory of Sarah Van. Each book purchased in memory of Sarah has her photo on the inside cover. Children look at it, pat it and say, “Hi, Sarah.”