The ideaLAB & Library has played a central role as a bustling and innovative community hub in Innisfil.
Over the years, its scope has evolved to align with the growing local demand for more affordable access to new technologies, while at the same time promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Through its mission of fostering community learning, the library was one of the first in Ontario to adopt a ‘makerspace’ — a collaborative do-it-yourself environment with tools for creativity.
“We have seen countless community members walk through our doors looking for information or resources, and leave with connections, new skills, and even new businesses,” said Kathryn Schoutsen, the manager of engagement and community development at Innisfil ideaLAB & Library.
As an inclusive space by nature, the ideaLAB & Library has welcomed young children, families and seniors with free and low-cost programs, activities and support.
“A library is one of the few places in the world where you can simply ‘be' with no expectations of having to spend money,” Schoutsen said.
The Innisfil ideaLAB & Library embraces a holistic approach that encourages the participation of residents to create a healthy place to live. The idea is to act as a civic anchor by connecting community needs with local partners and organizations, and ultimately providing services to enhance and align with those partners, and not duplicate efforts.
“Community is at the heart of all we do, and we believe that our commitment to connecting the community with ideas, knowledge, services, technology and each other will empower them to seek solutions that will improve the overall quality of life in Innisfil.”
Connecting new residents is a critical piece of the library’s role. One key partner that supports this is YMCA Immigrant Services, which hosts office hours at the library every Wednesday.
In an initiative to create a positive experience for those new to Canada, the library provides all library card holders with free access to PressReader — a news resource with thousands of newspapers and magazines available in a variety of languages.
“We know that for immigrants, access to materials in their first language not only helps them stay connected with their home countries, but also helps them feel welcome here in Innisfil," said Schoutsen.
Targeted programs include the hackLAB Kits for Seniors. Thousands of these pre-made craft kits, featuring laser cutting, vinyl cutting and more, have been distributed to seniors across the community and to those who are isolated and vulnerable in particular.
“If budgets allow, we hope to continue and grow these programs, which have improved seniors’ well-being through community connection, skill-building, and social interaction," Schoutsen explained.
During the pandemic, as various issues such as mental health, and food and economic security have been exacerbated, the library has found unique ways to serve the community. These include shifting to virtual and curbside pick up, conducting care calls, checking in on isolated community members, and helping people to book vaccine appointments.
Most recently, in response to the rising costs of everything, the library teamed up with the Town of Innisfil to tackle food insecurity by hosting the neighbours-helping-neighbours program Troy Scott Community Fridges at its Lakeshore and Cookstown branches.
The library is also expanding offerings in its Library of Things program — a collection of technology, tools, board games, and toys that allow community members to access equipment or entertainment without any upfront costs.
“Our Library of Things reduces the financial barriers associated with purchasing technology acting as a ‘try before you buy’ lending program, and increasing access to technology and resources that build digital literacy skills," Schoutsen explained.
Beyond engaging programming, events and opportunities for Innisfil residents, the library has been working to champion equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility, as well as Indigenous reconciliation. Some small changes, such as a new washroom signage that includes inclusive language and iconography, are already in place.
“While it is going to take time, commitment, unlearning and learning, we are approaching this work with cultural humility, acknowledging that we are learners when it comes to understanding another’s experience," she said.
In 2020, the library went ‘fine free’, removing another barrier to equitable access to its services.
“We never want another resident of Innisfil to tell us they stopped bringing their children to borrow books because they can’t afford the overdue fines," said Schoutsen.
Despite budget challenges, the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library is confident it will continue to bring innovative and engaging programming, events and opportunities to Innisfil residents.
And as life returns to normal, the library focuses on promoting its upcoming events, such as the show-and-tell event MakerFest on Sept. 24, the Simcoe Reads on Sept. 17, and the Ice Hut Art exhibition during the winter.
