The TNRD building in downtown Kamloops. (Image Credit: Mary Putnam via TNRD)
TNRL Survey

TNRL celebrates 50 years of service, seeking public input

Sep 25, 2026 | 11:31 AM

KAMLOOPS — The Thompson-Nicola Regional Library (TNRL) is celebrating 50 years of service by inviting the public to share their thoughts on the future of library services.

In October, which is also Canadian Library Month, the TNRL is launching a region-spanning engagement campaign dubbed TNRL’s Next Chapter, which will help inform their strategic plan and identify priorities for future library services.

The campaign will begin on Thursday (Oct 1) with For the Love of Libraries event at the Kamloops Library, which will celebrate the release of the TNRL’s commemorative history book.

“The publication of this book gives us an opportunity not only to reflect on the impact our libraries have had across the region, but also to look ahead and consider how we can continue serving communities for decades to come,” said Julie Creaser, TNRL General Manager.

Residents can share their thoughts and feedback through an online survey that will be open through October.

“The survey will explore what library services people value most today, where there may be opportunities for improvement, and what role they would like libraries to play in their communities in the future. Information gathered through the survey and community engagement events will help inform TNRL’s priorities for 2027-2031,” said a statement from the TNRL.

A series of public engagement events will take place at libraries around the region until October 15.

The TNRL said it has been over 12 years since it conducted a region-wide assessment on priorities for library services, and the landscape has shifted significantly in that time.

“Since then, communities have grown and changed, technology has transformed how people access information, and the library has embarked on significant initiatives,” said the TNRL.

“Public feedback will help guide decisions about library collections, programs, community spaces, partnerships, outreach services, and digital resources while ensuring the library continues to provide the high-quality services residents rely on every day.”

The TNRL said the organization is dealing with major capital projects and service improvements, as well as changing demographics, rising operational costs, evolving accessibility expectations, and advances in technology and digital information, which it said are challenges faced by libraries across Canada.

“TNRL is excited about upcoming work on several key projects over the next few years, including the planned library at the Kamloops Arena Multiplex and continued work on the proposed library in Sun Peaks. At the same time, it is essential that we continue to understand and respond to the needs of people who rely on our existing services,” said Creaser.

“Whether residents use the library every week or haven’t visited in years, we hope they’ll take a few minutes to complete the survey and share their perspective.”