Rural Library Establishment Grant Program


What is the Rural Library Establishment Grant Program?

To increase the number of Manitobans with access to local library services. The Province pays an establishment grant for any municipality establishing library service for the first time under Part II or Part III of The Public Libraries Act. The purpose of this grant is to:

  • Ensure that a basic book collection is available for the use of residents of a municipality which is establishing library service for the first time
  • Encourage the formation of larger and more efficient library systems

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Who can apply?

Public library boards may establish only where a municipality contributes a minimum of $3.75 per capita (The Public Libraries Act Regulations 3(1)). Public library boards so established under Part II or Part III of the Public Libraries Act apply for an Establishment Grant.

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What is the criteria?

Public library boards established under Part II or Part III of The Public Libraries Act may apply for an Establishment Grant.

The library board is eligible for an Establishment Grant on the next April following the passing of the library bylaw. As provided in Manitoba Regulation No. 153/83, the Library board chairperson applies for an Establishment Grant in a letter accompanied by:

  • A certified copy of the library bylaw following its third reading by the municipality
  • A list of the board members and their addresses
  • For a regional library, a certified copy of the agreement

The bylaw and draft agreement must be submitted for the approval of the Minister of Culture, Heritage, Tourism and Sport and the authorization of the Municipal Board before the bylaw is passed and the agreement signed.

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What is the funding formula?

An Establishment Grant of $5,000 is paid to any municipality establishing library service for the first time.

  • At least $4,000 of each $5,000 grant must be spent on the purchase of books and library materials
  • Municipalities seeking to establish library services are encouraged to join an existing library system rather than create an independent system
  • Assistance with establishment procedures is available from Public Library Services Branch

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Contact

Director Public Library Services
Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism
300–1011 Rosser Avenue
Brandon MB R7A 0L5

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