To showcase the important work being done by libraries across the province, MLA regularly interviews library workers from a variety of institutions about the work they do to deliver library services to Manitobans.
This month we interviewed Leah O’ Leary, the Community Program Coordinator at Portage la Prairie Regional Library. Read to learn about the wide breadth of programming that their library offers, and the importance of building relationships with nonprofits and organizations in the community.
Can you tell us a bit about your library system or branch? Is there anything unique or unusual about it?
The Portage la Prairie Regional Library serves over 7,700 patrons from the City of
Portage la Prairie, the RM of Portage la Prairie, and surrounding communities. With a
collection of more than 67,000 items, we aim to provide a wide variety of reading
options. If we don’t have the book you’re looking for, don’t worry! We can request it
through interlibrary loan from locations across Canada, from Halifax to Vancouver,
including university libraries. Our interlibrary team will do their best to track down the
book you need.
Whether you’re researching history for a project or simply for personal interest, we
offer access to an archives department in collaboration with Portage la Prairie City Hall.
The library staff is a close-knit team, all dedicated to creating a welcoming atmosphere
for everyone. We work hard to ensure that the library remains a valuable asset to the
community.
What is one thing you wish more people knew about your work or your
library?
I wish more people knew that our library offers much more than just reading
resources—we provide a wide range of services for everyone. Our computers, study
areas, and programs are all free to use, even for those who don’t have a library
membership. We also offer exam proctoring services, radon screening kits, blood
pressure kits, air quality sensors, and a seed library.
We offer diverse programming to meet the needs of our community. For example, In
January, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) hosted a workshop to assist with income
tax questions, income and deduction services, updating direct deposit information, and
more. We offer helpful programs like this every month. Additionally, we have partnered
with the Canadian Mental Health Association to provide drop-in mental health support
and offer resources for anyone in need.
We also offer a variety of children’s programs, including two kids’ craft nights each
month, Lego Club, storytime, and much more. In total, we host over 25 programs each
month, all open to the public and completely free. We take pride in the diverse range of
services we provide to support our community.
What is something happening at your library that you’re excited about?
I’m personally excited about the opportunity to build strong relationships with other
nonprofits and organizations. Our goal is to collaborate on programs that address the
needs of the community. For instance, we’re planning a writing workshop with a local
author, offering a series of sessions to spark interest in writing. What better place to
learn than a library?
I love being a part of the community and helping wherever I’m needed, it’s wonderful
that I can do that through my role at the library.
What are you reading/watching/playing right now?
I’ve always loved reading, and I feel lucky to work in a library with such easy access to
a wide range of books. Right now, I’m really enjoying cozy fantasy. I recently read
Drinks & Sinkholes by Evan S. Usher. As for TV, I can never get enough of Grey’s
Anatomy—I love watching it on repeat and never get bored, especially with so many
seasons to enjoy!
We’re always looking for more library workers to feature! Are you doing something interesting at your library that you want to share, or do you know someone in Manitoba that is? Reach out to us at communications@mla.mb.ca to share your story.