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Our Mandate

Vision

A public library system that provides universal access to a full range of library services supporting personal growth, life-long learning and recreation while helping to connect people and communities.

Mandate

The mandate of the PILRB is outlined in the Public Libraries Act.  It states:

6. (1) The provincial board shall establish and operate those public libraries in the province that   it considers necessary and shall provide support to ensure that library materials, information and programs are available to meet the needs of the public.

    (2) The provincial board shall provide:

  1. a resource collection of selected materials in its provincial reference and  resource library which shall be available to the various libraries in the province;
  2. a centralized cataloguing and processing service through its technical services department;
  3. library service to communities that do not have a local library through its books-by-mail service;
  4. centralized administrative services through its provincial headquarters; and

Lines of Business/Primary Clients

NLPL offer a variety of services throughout the province available to individuals of all ages.  While there is a desire to have all services offered from all sites, certain services are available only at select sites due to hours of operation, size of the facility and staffing allocations.  The majority of the services are provided free of charge but some are subject to minimal fees.

Library services are available to all individuals holding a valid library card and, in some cases, to individuals without a library card.  Library cards are provided free of charge although replacement cards cost $2.00.  With a valid library card, library patrons can:

  • access information in a library;
  • borrow materials;
  • attend library programs;
  • use public computers and access the Internet;
  • access electronic resources remotely; and
  • participate in outreach services.

Library activities have been grouped into three distinct lines of business:

1. Information Access

  1. Patrons can access information in print and electronic formats.
  2. Patrons can make queries, and/or access library catalogues and databases housed in libraries. 
  3. Patrons can access in-house information (also available to persons without a valid library card.)
  4. Patrons can use public library computers.
  5. Patrons can utilize free wireless internet services which can be obtained in or adjacent to the library in selected sites.
  6. Patrons can acquire assisted technology, emerging technology and new technology at designated sites.
  7. Patrons can access major collections, i.e. the Newfoundland and Labrador collection, special interest collections, and the Literacy Clearing House collection.
  8. Online services are available from within the library and from a computer at home or elsewhere.

2. Information Lending

  1. Public libraries lend print materials and, where available, materials in audio, visual and/or digital format.
  2. Patrons are free to use materials on site and, where available, can renew or reserve materials from home computers using their library card access number.
  3. Certain sites lend equipment such as digital cameras, laptop computers, etc.
  4. In selected areas of the province patrons can borrow books by mail or receive books via home reader services.
  5. Individuals can also obtain materials, through inter-library loans, from other libraries within or outside the provincial public library system.

3. Programs for Life-long Learning

  1. Any person can participate in library programs designed to address the needs and interests of all age groups, such as preschool story times, class visits, book clubs, special presentations, computer training, etc.  These programs are intended to help improve literacy, promote culture, increase skills and knowledge, or for simple enjoyment.  Occasionally, outreach programs are also provided.