Public library workers in York Region, members of Local 905 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 905), and their supporters, are celebrating Ontario Public Library Week with a message that, in addition to having great patrons, great libraries depend on great workers.

“We’re very proud of the relationship we have developed with our patrons in the community,” said CUPE 905 spokesperson Hamid Osman.

Earlier in the day, library workers handed out buttons, postcards and other items at the Aurora Public Library to commemorate Public Library Week, which began October 15 and runs until October 21. Similar events will take place tomorrow in New Tecumseth and, tentatively, on Thursday, in Georgina.

Since 1985, Public Library Week has highlighted the vital contributions that public libraries make towards enhancing the quality of life for residents in the communities they serve. Across the province, CUPE library workers are marking the week with celebrations scheduled in 12 different communities.

Public Library Week is also an important opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of ensuring libraries and library workers have the resources and tools to serve their communities, while providing important services and good jobs, said CUPE Ontario Library Committee Chair Maureen O’Reilly.

“Libraries are a vital thread in the fabric of our communities. They help make our neighbourhoods great places to live in. However, the key ingredient to a great library is great people, which is why it is so important to take a moment to pay tribute to all the great library workers across Ontario,” she said.