Pilot Mound Library History

  In 1936 the women’s Institute was instrumental in starting a Library, which in addition to the traveling library, provided books for educational and entertainment use.

  In 1964 citizens organized a structured form of permanent library and became a branch of the Lakeland Regional Library which provided a rotation of 100 books per month from the head library in Killarney.  This rotation has since grown and in 1997was increased to over 260 books monthly.

  In 1964 a tax of one mill was placed on home resident owners in Pilot Mound and a membership fee of $15 per year was charged for rural residents.  Because of the increased cost of books, in 1997 membership fees were raised to $40 per year.

 

  In 2001 the Pilot Mound Library left the Regional Library system and established its own Public Library, separate from Lakeland.  The first and present librarian continues to be Allison MacAulay, with Shirley Foidart as Chairman of the Board. 

  The Pilot Mound Library building was constructed in 1967 as a Centennial Project with Federal and Provincial Government funding, thus fulfilling a dream and becoming a permanent home for the prized and cherished books.

  While the Library’s first priority is the collection and distribution of the printed word, the walls serve as a gallery for historical photographs, ensuring that the story of this area will be preserved.  Historical artifacts are made available beneath the library in the Pilot Mound Museum.

  Throughout the years many structural improvements have taken place at the library.  Better lighting with newly installed windows, an insulated steel front door, fresh siding on the exterior and a wheelchair ramp have all been added .

   Collection development has increased significantly through the years.  Our operational grant from the Dept. of Culture, Heritage, Tourism and Sport as well as the Pilot Mound Foundation Grant continue to be our main sources of funding allowing us to keep the Library operating.

  The Community Connection Computer allows patrons use of our High Speed Internet connection.  The summer reading program continues utilizing the Recreation Office Staff.  Historical data, acquired from the Provincial Archives is posted on the library walls.

  Pilot Mound Library constantly builds up the collection of fiction and non-fiction books, biographies, Christian Fiction, Military texts, large-print media, Videos, DVD items. and magazines.  With membership you have access to over 180,000 books and 14,000 audio-visual items at all times.

  The library is a primary source for reading, and a source of information that forms the basis of lifelong learning.  Literacy is recognized as the basis for prosperity and personal well-being in later years.  Foster life-long learning by using the local library.  It will change your day-to-day living, enhance your quality of life, and reduce situations that can be harmful.