The Pakenham branch of the Mississippi Mills Public Library is gathering momentum these days, and the Friends of the Library are watching with excitement. First, the Pakenham branch is home to MMPL’s Makerspace. This was a recent initiative of MMPL and lucky Pakenham had the room to house the program. As Friends of the library, we have heard reports about the progress of the Makerspace since its inception and have rejoiced at how seamlessly it has attracted attention. We hear monthly about the ways in which the Makerspace is growing and offering more opportunities to more people. It is well used by people in Pakenham, and Almonte residents are also happy to make the trip to Pakenham, drawn by all the options and equipment. MMPL staff worked hard to get this program up and running and it has been a huge success.
That seems to be just the beginning. MMPL recently hired two new Children’s Programmers, one for Almonte and one for Pakenham. The Pakenham Programmer had fewer hours as the program was expected to involve smaller numbers of children. We are pleased to see the program welcomed by more families than anticipated, resulting in participation levels that surpass the hours initially planned.
In February, CEO of the Library, Berta Madrigal Abaroa, came to the Friends asking if we could help top up the hours of the Children’s Programmer in Pakenham. We were delighted to have the money to say “Yes”. We were able to donate $10,000 to increase the staff hours in Pakenham and ensure the children’s programs there continues throughout the year at a level that matches the interest in the program.
It feels like the Pakenham branch of MMPL is coming of age. As Friends of MMPL we would like to keep this momentum going in Pakenham. It would be so very helpful to us if we could get some new Friends who live in Pakenham, who would be able to advise us on new fundraising efforts that may draw in the Pakenham community more fully. This would increase the Friends ability to respond to financial requests for programming at both branches of MMPL.
The Friends of the Library already fund initiatives that make a real difference in Pakenham. These include our Fine Free Library, removing barriers to access, as well as supporting literacy, equipment and programs. Our impact is felt throughout the community.
If you are interested in joining the Friends and supporting your community, please send us an email at: friends@missmillslibrary.com.
