MOOSE JAW — The Palliser Regional Library held its 2025 annual general meeting at the Moose Jaw Public Library on May 3, offering members and stakeholders a comprehensive look at the region's operations, achievements, and financial realities from 2024.
With representatives attending from across the region, the meeting focused on programming success, internal development, and a detailed review of the library system's financial landscape.
“We’re working toward a more streamlined, modernized operation,” said Arwen Rudolph, director of Palliser Regional Library. “Our focus this year was on internal processes — payroll, onboarding, (and) financial procedures — to better support our staff and community branches.”
Strong programming and usage
Nearly 3,000 programs were delivered across Palliser’s network in 2024, with attendance nearing 27,000 — marking a return to pre-COVID participation levels.
“We’ve essentially bounced back,” Rudolph said. “Programs like our summer reading club, ‘Adventure Begins at Your Library,’ drew over 3,600 kids, and our branches hosted everything from fitness classes to cookie competitions.”
Other standout programs included a visit by astronaut Colonel Jeremy Hansen at the Moose Jaw Public Library, story trails on Main Streets across the region, and engaging adult workshops in Elbow and Loreburn.
Financial snapshot
On the financial front, the region ended 2024 with a modest overall loss of $37,215 — but this was expected and covered by reserves.
“We drew strategically from reserves to invest in facility upgrades and long-term projects,” said Wanda Parker, treasurer for Palliser Regional Library.
Among the key expenditures were:
- $16,714 was spent at headquarters for essential upgrades, including duct cleaning, eavestrough replacement, and asbestos tile remediation in the basement washroom.
- $15,000 was used for legal fees associated with collective bargaining.
- $1,500 was allocated for planned 50th anniversary celebrations deferred into 2025.
Most notably, an asbestos assessment of the Moose Jaw headquarters building estimated a $293,706 renovation cost to fully remove hazardous materials. This amount has now been added to the building’s asset value and will be depreciated over 15 years, with a corresponding liability entry. “This aligns with new government reporting requirements,” the board heard, “and will help us responsibly manage long-term maintenance or potential sale considerations.”
In addition, $49,652 from the Evergreen reserve funded new computers and printers for rural branches, modernizing technology access across the region.
Overall, the region maintained reserves totalling $19,631 across branches, while headquarters reserves were tapped to invest in infrastructure and staffing support.
Elections and looking ahead
Sarah Vennes-Ouellet was re-elected to serve a one-year term as board chair. Cody Sharpe was confirmed as one of Moose Jaw’s representatives, while rural executive positions were filled by Graham Harvey, Cheryl Searle, and Al Birchard. One urban and one rural vacancy remain.
The next general meeting is scheduled for Nov. 8, when the 2026 budget and levies will be decided.
To read the full report, visit PalliserLibrary.ca/agm.
