FOR RELEASE
November 17, 2011

WHITEHORSE—The Whitehorse Public Library will reopen in its new location on the Whitehorse waterfront on November 23, with a grand opening scheduled for December 3, Community Services Minister Elaine Taylor announced today.

The old library, located on Second Avenue beside the Government of Yukon’s Main Administration Building, was temporarily closed six weeks ago in preparation for the move.

“The new library location provides us with an inspiring new public space on the waterfront in a venue that celebrates the sharing of culture and traditions,” Taylor said. “It is a natural fit with the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre and complements the many waterfront improvements seen in recent years, from Shipyards Park to the MacBride Museum, the Roundhouse, new wharf and Rotary Peace Park.”

The new location will offer a high level of service in a new, safe and welcoming environment, as well as provide space for the Yukon Public Libraries branch, which supports library operations in 14 communities across Yukon.

“Our staff offers assistance to library users on research projects; we offer online library services, public internet and WIFI access, and this summer we added a French language interface to the library catalogue, as well as access to e-books and audio books,” Public Libraries director Julie Ourom said. “While the Whitehorse library is our biggest library and offers services to all Yukoners, we’re also proud to offer resources and programming to all ages through the community libraries.”

The grand opening on December 3, will take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The day’s festivities include an opening ceremony, live music, storytelling, refreshments, library tours, children’s activities, and more.

For details about the grand opening and to enter to win prizes, including e-book readers, visit the Whitehorse Public Library at its new location.

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