Even though Sechelt is almost twice the size of Gibsons, the library in Gibsons has received significantly more financial support from their local governments in the last three years.
According to some Ministry of Education stats, the Gibsons Library received $50.59 per capita in comparison to the $31.31 Sechelt received.
Chief Librarian Margaret Hodgins says they appreciate the support of the SCRD and the District of Sechelt but looking at their five-year agreement, which they have to renegotiate next year, there’s a commitment in terms of moving toward parity.
Hodgins says the Sechelt library’s visits are increasing by about 10,000 people each year and their staff is struggling with the increasing work load.
