Ashcroft Library Upgrades Bring Improved Experience and New-to-BC Service

Ashcroft, BC – December 7, 2022 – The Thompson-Nicola Regional Library (TNRL) is delighted to announce the completion of renovations to the Ashcroft Library. These improvements will have a significant impact on the patron experience, and will inform future new-build and renovation projects.

The Ashcroft Library now includes a:

Service Extender

  • The Service Extender is a first-of-its-kind program in B.C.; this program was introduced in northern European libraries and two eastern Canadian library systems
  • The program allows patrons to visit the library beyond regularly-staffed hours, doubling the opportunity for library visits from the current 26 hours to 52 hours per week
  • Patrons can check out items, use Wi-Fi and public computers, use study spaces and hold meetings
  • Technology has been developed in-house by TNRL staff and IT staff
  • The program is currently undergoing testing in advance of being fully implemented at the Ashcroft Library

Fresh Design

  • An additional 325 square feet of public space
  • Improved layout and design in the library, with an emphasis on collections merchandising
  • Designs that are inspired by the unique Thompson-Nicola Regional District geography
  • Natural tones, textures and style, and introducing Natural Pod, a line of sustainably-made B.C. children’s furniture to inspire learning
  • High-quality children’s interactive installations, made possible with the support of Interior Savings
  • Bar seating which includes a bright, dynamic and spacious area for patrons to study, work, read or play
  • Emphasis of showcasing community art on a rotating basis
  • A refreshed community meeting room space, updated with more suitable furniture

The TNRL held a formal grand opening and ribbon cutting at the Ashcroft Library on Wednesday, December 7, 2022.

 “We’re excited to now have an improved Ashcroft Library to serve residents and support rural sustainability. Ashcroft is the perfect community to launch the Service Extender innovation,” said TNRL Chief Librarian Judy Moore. “Our plan is to introduce this service at our rural libraries across the Thompson-Nicola Regional District.”

“When the construction of a new Ashcroft Library was announced in 1974, the TNRD board noted ‘the importance of the library developing into a lively cultural and educational centre in the community,’” said Board Chair Barbara Roden. “Over the last nearly 50 years, the Ashcroft Library has been at the heart of the community, and these renovations, upgrades, and new features such as the Service Extender ensure that it will continue in that role for many years to come.”

For more information about the Ashcroft Library, please visit tnrl.ca/ashcroft-library, or visit the library in person.


Media Contact:

Judy Moore, Chief Librarian
Thompson-Nicola Regional Library
Tel.: 250 377-7072
Email: jmoore@tnrd.ca  

(From left to right): TNRD CAO Scott Hildebrand, Ashcroft Library Branch Head Deanna Porter, Gold Trail School District Co-Chair Carmen Ranta, TNRD Board Chair Barbara Roden, local artist Esther Darlington, Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart, TNRD Chief Librarian Judy Moore.

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