SPL is turning 25 this year. Here’s a lil history from the library’s PR:
Library service has moved ahead in leaps and bounds over the past 25 years. And many customers who have been with us since Surrey took over its own libraries from Fraser Valley Regional Library have moved through school, graduated university, raised families, retired, or taken up new jobs and hobbies.
It was in 1982, the citizens of Surrey voted for their own library system. This wish was realized on March 17th, 1983, making 2008 a 25th Anniversary celebration for the Surrey Public Library!
On day one, six branches opened their doors to the public: Guildford, Whalley, Newton, Ocean Park, Cloverdale and Port Kells. Since then, a new facility for Newton was constructed, Strawberry Hill, Semiahmoo and Fleetwood were constructed, Guildford was renovated, Cloverdale moved, and Ocean Park saw a complete rebuild.
In 1984, a home computer was almost unheard of – but at the library, we were busy launching GEAC, our first automated library system to keep track of who borrowed what, and when it was due back. Not long after, the old card catalogue was replaced with ‘state of the art’ microfiche!
And that was just the beginning! Today we have online catalogue access, a resource and information rich website, expanded public Internet access, language labs and three electronic classrooms for use and training.
Our first formal multicultural services were developed at the Whalley Branch in 1986. By 1997, we were honoured with the Cultural Diversity Award for our ongoing efforts, one of many awards Surrey Public would earn. Today we have material available in 16 languages.
Surrey Public Library has evolved progressively over the years, continually rising to meet the unique needs of this rapidly growing city and its many communities, through a wider range of collections, public programs, community involvement, new technology and more.
SPL will be celebrating it’s 25th Anniversary on Saturday, March 15th from 11am to 4pm at the Guildford branch [map]
Speakers include Dr. Art Hister and writer-in-residence Mansel Robinson. There will also be a ton of family friendly activities including crafts, face painting, puppet shows, and other children’s entertainers. And don’t forget the free birthday cake!
