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Are Coquitlam's libraries your second home? Here's how you could write its next chapter

Local volunteers are being called to join the Coquitlam Library Board, which would oversee each branch's services for the next two years.
Kyle Balzer
Kyle Balzer
1087px-Coquitlam_Poirier_Library
The Coquitlam Public Library's Poirier branch. | Greg Salter/Wikipedia

The Coquitlam Public Library (CPL) provides a safe space for many residents to read, work and escape from the everyday world.

Some bookworms have even passed the love of the written word down through their families, which has resulted in daily or weekly visits to see what's new and available.

And above all, libraries are meant to be welcoming for all as each page and archive tells a unique perspective.

The Coquitlam Public Library Board oversees these services year-round and helps guide civic officials to determine where funding and attention is needed most.

Now, there are vacancies on the team and the city is making an open call to the public this month to apply for the volunteer positions, which will help shape the immediate future of the CPL, its branches and outreach programs.

In a statement, spokesperson Katie Karn said the library board engages with "Coquitlam's diverse communities" in carrying out its goal of providing innovative spaces for learning, and sharing values of openness, inclusion and respect.

This includes use of the CPL's services, like free wireless internet, remote printing, eBooks and eAudiobooks, 3D scanning and printing, and materials in multiple languages.

Successful board applicants are set to serve for two years — January 2023 to December 2024 — and will meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month, except March, August and December.

However, the term could also be less than that span depending "on the vacancy being filled," Karn added.

Interested applicants are also invited to attend one of two pre-registered board information sessions either in-person or online:

Nov. 14

  • Poirier Branch board room (575 Poirier St.)
  • 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 15

  • City Centre Branch board room (1169 Pinetree Way)
  • 6 to 7:30 p.m.

If you wish to attend, you're encouraged to contact Lily Vukasovic at 604-937-4137 or email [email protected].

The deadline is 11 p.m. on Nov. 16 to submit an application, along with a résumé and cover letter, for the Coquitlam Public Library Board's consideration.

For more information, you can visit the library page of the city's website.

Some of the criteria is as follows:

  • You cannot already be employed by the city or the Coquitlam Public Library
  • You must be an eligible resident or a non-resident property elector
    • e.g., individuals who own property in Coquitlam, but live elsewhere in B.C.
  • You should be able to demonstrate knowledge, experience or potential to effectively contribute to key areas of the board
    • e.g., government and policy, strategic planning and finance
      • "As with all boards overseeing a complex organization, previous business or legal experience is desirable."
  • Applicants of any age, race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, neighbourhood and income level are encouraged to apply in order to appoint representatives of the broader community, and to address issues of those communities