Library receives Commonwell L.E.A.F. grant

The Orangeville Public Library has received a $30,400 grant from the Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group’s L.E.A.F (Learning and Engagement Accelerator Fund) initiative. These funds will support the purchase of equipment to make emerging technology accessible to Orangeville residents of all ages.

In September 2021, Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group announced a $1 million grant program to support programs and facilities that re-energize learning and engagement within communities. Orangeville Public Library’s ‘Creation Lab’ submission was one of 21 community projects that received funding.

The funds will be used to create a new technology and learning hub at the Alder Street location for coders, crafters and entrepreneurs. The 'Creation Lab' will provide the community with opportunities to make, create, and innovate through access to a wide array of materials and equipment; such as a vinyl cutter, robotics and circuitry kits, computers, a green screen, video equipment and more.

“On behalf of the Library Board, I would like to thank the Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group for their generous financial support,” said William Rea, Library Board Chair. “The funds will allow Orangeville to move forward with a new makerspace that will open later this year. Orangeville residents expressed their desire for this new service in the responses to the community survey that the Board undertook last summer. We are delighted to be able to respond with the ‘Creation Lab’.”

For more information regarding the Orangeville Public Library and upcoming events, visit www.orangevillelibrary.ca, the mobile app, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or call 519-941-0610.