Richmond, BC –Richmond Public Library (RPL) is pleased to announce that it is the recipient of the annual British Columbia Library Association (BCLA) “Building Better Communities” award. This award was presented at the BC Library Conference held in Nanaimo on May 9.
The “Building Better Communities” award recognizes individuals or organizations that increase the relevancy and impact of library service through partnership, collaboration and building trust. RPL received the award for its pivotal role in partnering with the City of Richmond to develop and implement the Community Services Pop Ups (Pop Ups) and the Community Services Connectors program (Connectors program). These two programs have a strong focus on relationship-building, collaboration with community partners and support for people at risk of or living in poverty.
“Delivering these important services for the community aligns directly with the library’s 2024-2028 Strategic Plan goal of leveraging new and existing cross-sector partnerships to meet diverse and changing community needs,” said Denise Hui, Library Board Chair. “These programs are having a profound impact, connecting almost 2,500 community members with 40 community service organizations to April 2025.”
Both the Pop Ups and the Connectors program were strategically designed and implemented to improve community connections to services that meet immediate needs, enhance financial stability and provide wraparound supports to improve overall quality of life. Together, they provide two distinct but complementary resource navigation supports for Richmond residents. These factors were key considerations in the selection process that resulted in the library receiving this award.
“The City of Richmond is committed to fostering a community where everyone can thrive,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. These innovative programs are just one of the many ways the City is working closely with community partners to respond to needs in the community and increase access to supports that improve the quality of life for residents.”
For more information about the Community Services Pop Ups and Community Services Connectors program, visit www.richmond.ca/community resources. Details on the selection criteria for this award are at https://bclaconnect.ca/about/awards/.