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Barrie library volunteers recognized with provincial award

'Congratulations to all the award recipients on this well-deserved recognition,' says BPL official; local group honoured at Ontario Volunteer Service Awards
20240626barrielibraryvolunteerawards
Barrie Public Library (BPL) staff and volunteers at the 2024 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards. From left are Lois Scott (BPL volunteer), Daniela Gualtieri Da Silva (BPL volunteer), Phoenix Gray (BPL volunteer), Emily Fleming (volunteer resource coordinator at BPL), Katie Watton (BPL volunteer), and Jim Scott (BPL volunteer).

NEWS RELEASE
BARRIE PUBLIC LIBRARY
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The Barrie Public Library is thrilled to announce eight of our dedicated volunteers were celebrated at the 2024 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards.  

The local ceremony took place on June 19 to honour volunteers for their outstanding contributions and continued service at organizations such as non-profits, schools, community centres, hospitals, libraries and community associations.

Three youth volunteers were recognized for two or more years of continuous service at the library.  

Katie Watton and Daniela Gualtieri Da Silva, both members of the Barrie Public Library’s Leaders and Innovative Teens (BPL LIT) group, were recognized for their contributions to teen-related programs and special events. Since joining the library in 2021, Katie has dedicated 57 hours to volunteering, while Daniela has contributed 61 hours since 2022.  

Phoenix Gray was also honoured for their role as a Children’s Program Volunteer, having volunteered 78 hours since 2021, supporting children’s programs and events at the Painswick Library.  

Several of our adult volunteers were acknowledged for their years of continuous service.  

Jim and Lois Scott, a husband-and-wife team, received awards for their 10 years of service with the Visiting Library Service, delivering library materials to community members who are unable to visit the library in person.  

Wendy Krs, Masa Sone, and Robin Milani were recognized for five years of service to the library, although unable to attend the ceremony. Wendy and Masa support the English Conversation Circle, leading group discussions to build English-speaking confidence. Masa also has become a valued Café Volunteer. Robin volunteers at our program Play, Learn, Grow, helping engage both children and their families in early literacy.

“We are incredibly proud of all our volunteers for their dedication and hard work. Each of these individuals brings unique skills and energy to our programs, and their contributions are invaluable to the success of our library," says Emily Fleming, Volunteer Resources Coordinator at the Barrie Public Library. "Congratulations to all the award recipients on this well-deserved recognition.” 

For more information about volunteering at the Barrie Public Library, please visit our website.  

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