Letter regarding Greater Victoria Public Library 2021 Budget and Five-Year Financial Plan

Re: Greater Victoria Public Library 2021 Budget and Five-Year Financial Plan

On behalf of the Greater Victoria Public Library Board, I am pleased to submit Greater Victoria Public Library’s 2021 Operating Budget and Five-Year Financial Plan for 2021-2025. As per the terms of the Library Operating Agreement, approval by council resolution is required by May 1, 2021.

The total municipal contribution amount requested for 2021 is being held at last year’s requisition, resulting in a zero percent increase in the overall municipal requisition. We have worked hard to achieve this goal through operational efficiencies, as well as reduced expenses from the 2020 service adjustments and forecasted savings for 2021 that reflect COVID-19 service levels.

The Town of View Royal’s share of the 2021 requisition, which is based on converted assessment values and population of your municipality, including rental adjustment, is $550,781.

Thank you for your ongoing recognition, support and appreciation of GVPL’s work. As reflected in the Victoria Foundation’s 2020 Vital Signs Report, GVPL is recognized for its essential role in lifelong learning, inclusivity and community wellbeing. Throughout the challenges of the pandemic, GVPL has succeeded in providing our community with library service: first with access to a vast array of online resources and now with a phased return to in-person library services. We are committed to sustainable services now and in the future by remaining agile and able to pivot between digital and in-person services as needed, to keep citizens engaged and our staff and users safe.

For your information, I attach a copy of GVPL’s 2019 Annual Report, which will provide you with additional information on our community inspired contributions.

Sincerely,

Deborah Begoray Chair, Greater Victoria Public Library Board

cc: Kim Anema, CAO, Town of View Royal Dawn Christenson, Director of Finance, Town of View Royal Maureen Sawa, CEO, Greater Victoria Public Library Paul McKinnon, Director, Finance & Facilities, Greater Victoria Public Library