Each year the library creates an annual report highlighting the activities of the previous year. At a recent meeting of County Council, CEO Barbara Sweet overviewed the 2022 report.

If you’d like to see the document, it’s available at peclibrary.org or in print at any branch of the library. In 2022, the library loaned 183,780 items. This includes books, DVDs, ebooks and other items. Additionally, we loaned 3,580 items to libraries outside of Prince Edward County for them to share with their patrons,and borrowed 4,548 items for our patrons. The annual report reflects on some of the new initiatives at each branch.

At the Ameliasburgh Branch Library, innovative Writers-in-Residence from the Al Purdy A-Frame experimented with new ways to reach the community. Additionally, the Friends of Ameliasburgh & Consecon Branches of the library recognized the retirement of long-serving Friend Helen McLachlan by adding new books to the library collection.

The Bloomfield Branch, with support from the Government of Canada through “My Main Street Community Activator Program”, added a new outdoor space and special programs with guest speakers.

Thanks to a generous benefactor, the Consecon Branch Library added new, easy-to-move shelving. This makes it possible for the branch to host larger groups and events by moving the shelves. This is a great complement to the recently completed lobby reno which added an automatic door and refreshed the entire space.

The Milford Branch Library learned that there is an acrobatics class for children happening at the town hall, and that families and caregivers needed a welcoming place to wait for their student. The library began opening in the evening as a way of meeting community needs.

The Wellington Branch Library’s meeting room became the home for many of the groups who were displaced by construction in Picton. A popular ukulele class started many aspiring musicians on their uke journey. Don Hinde and the Library Orchestra spent many hours practicing and are now ready to take bookings with proceeds supporting the library.

The Friends of the Wellington Branch Library’s Canada Day and Pumpkinfest book sales returned to the appreciation of the community. This year promises to be an exciting year at the library, with the addition at the Picton Branch Library opening to serve the community. This spring, library operations will move into the new space while the existing library gets a refresh including new flooring and paint, and by the end of 2023 it will be fully open!

-Liz Zylstra