February 2, 2007

MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT INVESTS IN LIBRARY INFRASTRUCTURE TO BOOST ECONOMIC GROWTH
Over $2.3 Million In Capital Grants Will Go To Libraries Across Ontario

FORT FRANCES — The new Fort Frances Public Library will receive $1.6 million for construction work as part of the McGuinty government’s plan to boost jobs and growth in Ontario, Minister of Culture Caroline Di Cocco announced today.

“Over $2.3 million in capital grants will be distributed to five libraries across the province that have ready-to-go infrastructure projects,” said Di Cocco. “Most of the projects are located outside of the major urban centres and will generate immediate economic activity and create construction and renovation jobs in those communities.”

The projects include building of new libraries and renovation and expansion of existing libraries.

Libraries, museums and heritage buildings across the province will benefit from the government’s $190 million economic stimulus package designed to stimulate Ontario’s economy.    

“We are pleased to help fund the new library in Fort Frances,” said Di Cocco. “Projects like this have both cultural and economic benefits for many communities. Work planned for their libraries, museums and heritage buildings will be completed ahead of the original schedule. And the initiative will create jobs and economic activity in some of the province’s most vulnerable communities.”

Library infrastructure projects the Ontario government is assisting include:

• $1,600,000, Fort Frances Public Library
• $330,000, West Perth Public Library in Mitchell, Ontario
• $150,000, Nipigon Public Library
• $132,000, West Lincoln Public Library in Caistorville, Ontario

Since 2003, investments in infrastructure, postsecondary education, research and innovation and key economic sectors have helped strengthen Ontario's economic foundations and continue to build opportunity.

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Contacts:
Mark Thompson, Minister’s Office, (416) 325-4071
Guy Lepage, Communications Branch, (416) 314-3497