The hearts of many small villages in Saskatchewan are the public gathering places. In Pilger, one of those centres in the Pilger Library, a meeting spot and activity centre for young and old. The library celebrated its 42nd anniversary on December 3.

Librarians Crystal Gudmundson and Rhonda Hemm had a spread waiting for guests and patrons. As part of the Wapiti Regional Library System that serves rural centres from its Prince Albert headquarters, the library has its own collection of books and materials. It is also part of a province-wide inter-library loan system that can make any of its resources available to any patron in the province.

Branch librarian Crystal Gudmundson notes that library services go beyond helping people with print materials. The library has also become a hub for those who need access to electronic information.

“It’s a gathering place. There are lots of different resources including computers and the internet for people who don’t have it. There’s faxing, printing, and photocopying. And it’s just a fun place to be.”

One of the key programs the library sponsors each year is the Summer Reading Program. Supported by the Wapiti Regional Library, Gudmundson and Hemm provide youth activities including kits like Ozobots, along with crafts, games, and reading activities.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the original librarians were slated to be on hand for a visit with the patrons who have supported the Pilger Library for the past 42 years.