Because of a recent grant increase from Town Council, the Library in Ste. Anne will be able to keep their program director.

Library Board Chair Michelle Laroque says Lise Champagne was hired two years ago as part of a pilot project, and since then has really made a positive impact at the library.

Laroque says, "We appeared before Council and they were very supportive of the library and happy with all the work that's been done in the last year, getting the library refreshed and also with the increased programming we've been providing."

She says they receive $20,000 annually from the Town towards operating expenses, and they have an average annual budget of about $80,000. "Often our budget depends on how much money we are granted. We have to adjust it on a yearly basis."

The library currently has about 25,000 books, with an annual budget of between $8,000 and $10,000 for the purchase of new books. Laroque says the library purchases books in both French and English, as well as audio books.

Laroque adds a new program currently in the works will allow the library to reach families with a new baby. "The program director applied for a grant from Literacy for Life asking for some funding to put book bags together for new parents."

Laroque says they will partner with Southern Health to deliver the book bags to families in the area when they have a baby.

Along with providing programs for every age group, Laroque says, "My hope is to one day have longer hours of operation at the library with a full-time staff."