Have your say
If there are leisure programs or services of interest to you or members of your household that are not available in Whitchurch-Stouffville, or if you have suggestions on how existing programs could be improved, the Town would like to hear from you.
Everyone is invited to take part in a comprehensive survey on leisure services, which is available online at www.surveymonkey.com/s/859JPLL until March 5. If you would like to participate in the survey, but do not have access to the internet, you can contact the Department of Leisure Services at 905-642-7529 ext. 324.
The survey is part of the Leisure Services Master Plan update, which is being undertaken to address the needs of our rapidly growing community. According to the Town’s website, the estimated population for 2010 is 34,775, a figure which is expected to grow to more than 53,000 by 2021.
One key resource for young families and new immigrants moving into the community is the Whitchurch-Stouffville Public Library, which offers a wealth of services, including programs for children and adults, free computer and internet access and English as a Second Language courses. It also serves as a meeting place where newcomers can learn more about the community and its resources.
Library usage is increasing dramatically. According to the facility’s 2008 Annual report, 171,189 items were circulated; an increase of 14.2 per cent over 2007. Three thousand, one hundred and eighty-five new members joined for a total of 16,662 registered users. And 373 children participated in the 2008 summer reading program, reading a total of 17,600 books; an increase of 17.7 per cent and 123 per cent respectively.
The library’s March Break program draws hundreds of youngsters annually. The lineup for this year’s program, Jungle Crazy @ Your Library, includes Cindy Cook from Polka Dot Door, crafts, Mad Science and movies, and is generously sponsored by the Stouffville Lions Club.
To augment program funding, the library holds an annual Giant Book Sale from April 14 to 18 in the multi-purpose room at the Lebovic Leisure Centre. For details on hours and donations for the event or volunteer opportunities, visit www.whitchurch-library.on.ca, or call 905-642-7323 ext. 223.
Leave a Reply