For immediate release:
EDMONTON, AB, March 21, 2016 – Library services are within easy reach of residents in northeast Edmonton through a new small storefront location of the Edmonton Public Library (EPL).
The McConachie eplGO Branch, featuring a sampling of EPL’s foundational services, is the second model of its kind in the city. One of EPL’s goals is to reduce barriers to accessing library services, which includes the design of new eplGO spaces with a selection of services specifically designed to meet the neighbourhood demographics of underserved communities.
“As Edmonton grows so does the demand for library services,” said Ellen Calabrese-Amrhein, Chair of the EPL Board of Trustees. “EPL continues to adapt and grow as well, and this eplGO space is a small, yet mighty addition to this neighbourhood.”
The new 3,100 square foot branch, located at 16607 50 Street NW, includes a mini makerspace, PS4 video game console and sound cone, public computer stations, unlimited Wi-Fi, a collection of popular DVDs, video games and best-sellers, customer holds, and programs such as Sing, Sign, Laugh and Learn. There is also a printer and photocopier, and 24-hour return chute.
“Public library services must be readily available to each and every citizen,” said Pilar Martinez, Chief Executive Officer of EPL. “Innovative delivery of materials, resources and programming is paramount to enhancing access to library services for Edmontonians, and EPL is thrilled to launch another eplGO site in our city.”
EPL continues to look for fast and cost-effective ways to bring library services to newer neighourhoods currently without easy access to public library service. An eplGO branch opened in West Henday during the summer of 2015 and plans are underway for a future site in south Edmonton.
The new McConachie eplGO branch is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 1 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays.
EPL has several approved building projects at various stages of planning, design and construction. Plans are underway for a new Calder branch and a new Capilano facility, along with a revitalization of the Stanley A. Milner Library downtown. For more information, visit epl.ca/building-projects.
-30-
About the Edmonton Public Library
The Edmonton Public Library (EPL) is proud to be 2014 Library of the Year! We’ve come a long way since 1913 when books were all you could find on our shelves… and we’re just getting started! Today, EPL carries everything you care about. We are Edmonton’s largest lender of all manner of information and entertainment. Our professionally trained staff take you beyond Google with the knowledge, discernment and desire to help you navigate a universe of information. The second most visited place in Edmonton, every year EPL hosts over 14 million in-branch and online visits across our 19 branches and website. We deliver our incredible content to you everywhere – in the library, at home or on your handheld device. Unmatched access and unrivalled value – that is today’s EPL. EPL is a registered charity and relies on donations to enhance services. Spread the words. www.epl.ca/donate.
For more information, contact
Heather McIntyre
Marketing Communications Specialist
Edmonton Public Library
780-496-7055
hmcintyre@epl.ca
