Happy 130th birthday, Schreiber Public Library!

The Schreiber Public Library is turning 130 years old this year. This is of course a big deal as the library is recognized as one of the few remaining icons of Schreibers’ past. Sadly this is not really the best time for celebrating any milestones as the shadow of COVID is still hanging over our lives. With lockdowns and repeated closures the SPL has had to endure many dashed dreams this year but that won’t crush the spirit of our most treasured institution.

Keeping relevant is a challenge for any organization, especially one that has direct access to the public built into its daily operations. All through the pandemic the Schreiber Public Library has had to adapt to change, often cancelling planned events and reducing services.

In an effort to stay connected with patrons and residents in general of the township of Schreiber, Donna Mikeluk, Senior Librarian, devised a plan to both thank the people and celebrate the achievements of the library. Often referred to as the “Queen of Grants”, Donna set about finding funding for the “Our Community Growing Together” project, as it became known. The idea was to not only let people know that the library is still there for them, but try and grow the user base as well. 

Gift bags are always a huge hit with Schreiber residents and after receiving a grant from the Thunder Bay Community Foundation of $8000 the next step would be filling over 200 bags with useful items. The Schreiber Senior Centre has had success with it’s bag giveaways but that of course was geared primarily to seniors and members of the Senior Centre.

In this case the younger generation would be the target audience. Bags were filled with books, DVDs, various craft items, hot chocolate, popcorn and other goodies. Over half of the bags would include painting supplies and canvasses to tie in with an online art class hosted by local artist Tracy Barry.

Where possible, supplies were purchased locally.

Schools will be the first to receive the bags followed by social services groups and adults under 50 years of age. Hopefully restrictions will loosen and maybe, just maybe, there will be a large birthday cake being served up soon at the Schreiber Public Library.