'Inspiring Ideas' future of Winnipeg's public libraries

The Winnipeg Public Library wants your input on planning for the future. It launched "Inspiring Ideas" on Monday at The Metropolitan Entertainment Centre.

Interactive stations including an ideas mural, survey ambassadors and a photo booth have gathered the first ideas from those in attendance, according to the city.

The feedback will be used to help create the library's five-year strategic plan, which will be released in the fall.

"I think it's still a relevant part of our society and a part of the city," St. Vital Coun. Brian Mayes, who chairs council's protection and community services committee, said Monday.

"We use them for meetings, they're community resources, and we're going to keep investing in them."

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The library is also reviewing its collections, spaces, services and programs to figure out how to better engage the public.

People can send input by filling out an online survey or filling out print surveys at library locations.

"We are really excited about the opportunity to hear what the public has to say and are encouraging Winnipeggers to get involved by going to the 'Inspiring Ideas' website and help shape the future of the Winnipeg Public Library," Rick Walker, the city's manager of library services, said in a news release.

There are also four special events where interactive stations will gather ideas:

• May 22 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Henderson Library, 1-1050 Henderson Hwy.
• June 7 from 12 to 3 p.m. at Sir Wm. Stephenson Library, 765 Keewatin St.
• June 11 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Millennium Library, 251 Donald St.
• June 17 from 5 to 8:00 p.m. at Pembina Trail Library, 2724 Pembina Hwy.