Conclusion

Dividends from the investment in Canadian public libraries are outstanding. Public libraries provide their communities with many benefits, from traditional social and cultural values, to strong economic values.

Public libraries provide an environment that fosters literacy and a love for reading, supports the local population in their need for information, and supports and enhances local businesses.

Public libraries demonstrate creativity and flexibility in the establishment of resource-sharing partnerships and networking opportunities, from sharing books via inter-library loan, to joint automation initiatives.

Public libraries support and promote the Canadian culture and retail sectors through the purchase of books, magazines, newspapers, videos, and cassettes -- written, produced, printed, published, performed and sold by Canadians.

Public libraries provide the services and support that assist in the development of literate, informed, and enriched citizens, ready to take on the challenges of the new century.

The Book and Periodical Council encourages library managers and staff, library boards and town councils, publishers and retailers to use this document as a tool when advocating and planning for the continuation of strong library services through the provision of stable funding.