Good morning!

The Sooke Library branch just celebrated its second anniversary, and there’s a lot to be excited about. Bringing important aspects to the community like literacy, activities, read all about the library’s impact and more in today’s edition of the newsletter.

— Emma

COMMUNITY

Sooke library branch is a gem in community building

As it celebrates its second year of operation, the Sooke branch of Vancouver Island Libraries is receiving well-deserved attention for its remarkable contributions to the community. Ben Hyman, the executive director of Vancouver Island Libraries, has been highlighting this newest addition to the regional library network, and there's much to boast about.

During a recent District of Sooke council meeting on May 13, Hyman proudly showcased the library's achievements. The Sooke Library received the 2022 Merit distinction at the Capital Region Commercial Building Awards, a testament to its striking architecture and inviting ambiance. Since its opening, there has been a remarkable 32% increase in memberships. With 80,000 annual visitors, its popularity can be attributed, in part, to its stunning round construction using locally sourced timber and welcoming spaces like the fireplace lounge.

District of Sooke councillor Al Beddows remarked, "It helps having a brand new shiny building. It stands out. I think people seek it out and it has a great deal to do with your success. It’s very welcoming."

Spanning 13,412 square feet on Wadams Way, the Sooke branch boasts the third largest collection in British Columbia, following Vancouver and Surrey. With 6,700 monthly visitors, and approximately 220 visitors daily, the library has become a focal point for the community. It has hosted 348 events ranging from poetry contests to seed swaps and offers a variety of community classes and workshops.

Despite the increasing prevalence of online transactions, 38% of Sooke residents possess a library card, showcasing a strong uptake of public services. Hyman presented a usership tracking map to the council, revealing visitors coming from as far as Port Renfrew and Jordan River.

Highlighting the importance of libraries in communities, Hyman referenced the Canadian Urban Institute’s "Overdue: the case for Canada’s public libraries" report, which positions libraries as essential community hubs. All library staff receive training in trauma-informed care, naloxone administration, and addressing issues affecting the unhoused, ensuring that the library serves as a safe and supportive environment for all.

Head to the Westshore to read Sidney Coles full story on the library’s impact in the community, and what it needs to keep going.

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EDUCATION

New high school on the books for Langford

It’s not in the books yet because the feds still have to see the budget before finalizing funding, but it looks like Langford is getting a new high school. It would be the sixth secondary school for the Sooke School District.

It could use another, too, because it’s one of the fastest-growing school districts in the province. Encompassing the Westshore communities of Langford, Colwood, Metchosin, Highlands, Port Renfrew, and Sooke, 13K+ students are enrolled in SD62 schools. “More than 10 years ago, I started advocating for two new schools in the Westshore, and I’m now proud to be an MLA delivering an investment to begin planning for a new high school in Langford,” said Ravi Parmar, MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca.

“The creation of a new, modern school for students to live, play, and grow is going to benefit Langford for generations to come.” Parmar grew up in Langford, so he’s seen first-hand the growth in the community and the resultant requirement for more schools.

There’s no official word where in Langford the high school would be built but the City of Langford already has said it’s down to build a full-size turf field with lights. It also said it would be interested in partnering with the CRD to construct a performing arts theatre on the grounds. 

Over the past seven years, provincial governments have created 2,660 new seats for students in SD62, including the new PEXSISEN Elementary, Centre Mountain Lellum Middle School, an addition to Royal Bay Secondary and SĆIȺNEW̱ SṮEȽIṮḴEȽ Elementary, and a 480-seat school with on-site child care, which is under construction. “As more people choose to make British Columbia their home, we’re investing in schools to welcome new students,” said Rachna Singh, minister of education and child care.

The province says it has created 25K student spaces across BC and has spent $4B to build and seismically upgrade schools and to buy land for future schools. Two prefab additions will be built by the fall at David Cameron Elementary and Ruth King Elementary. 

By Mark Brennae, Capital Daily 

Around the 'Shore

🚨 Missing woman found: West Shore RCMP announced that the 26-year-old woman who was reported missing on May 5 was found; police released the announcement on May 21, and thank the public for their help. 

📝 Chief Underwood discusses role as T’Sou-ke Nation Chief: Larry Underwood, who was officially sworn in on March 21 as Chief of T’Sou-ke Nation, says he’s looking to take a reflective and well-informed path in his decision making. This is the second time Chief Underwood has been elected, serving as Chief from 1987 to 1991. [Sooke News Mirror]

🇨🇦 Former Langford city councilor John Goudy passing: Goudy, who served as an original Langford councillor for 12 years, has just passed away. He was born in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK, and began his naval education at Dartmouth Naval Academy at the age of 13 and entered the Royal Navy. He transferred to Canada’s navy when his family emigrated, leading to his position as a physics teacher at UVic and councillor. Langford has lowered city flags in his honour. 

⚡️ Esquimalt Road crash: A crash in front of Esquimalt Plaza knocked out power around 7:15am on May 21. A vehicle hit a power pole on Esquimalt Road, leading to the closure of a portion of the main street in both directions. The power outage has been resolved. [Times Colonist]

SPONSORED BY VICTORIA CHINATOWN MUSEUM SOCIETY

This weekend: Awakening Chinatown returns

Experience the magic of Awakening Chinatown on May 26, in Victoria's Chinatown.

Immerse yourself in a vibrant celebration of culture, heritage, and community spirit. It's free fun for the whole family.

Thank you Lead sponsor RBC, Dragon sponsor Townline, Monkey sponsors DVBA, Campbell Construction, Heatherbrae Builders, and Anthem Properties.

Community Events

🎭 Twelve Angry Men: Check out the Sooke Harbour Player’s rendition of Twelve Angry Men this May 24 to 26 at the Sooke Community Theatre. With the show running from 7 to 9:30pm on May 24 and 25, and an afternoon show from 2 to 4:20pm on May 26, you can purchase tickets online.        

🏺 Fired Up! Contemporary Works in Clay: This May 25 and 26, head to the Metchosin Community Hall for Fired Up! Contemporary Works in Clay. Celebrating the 40th anniversary as the longest running ceramic exhibition group in Canada, the event will feature a sale and show of both contemporary work from current artists, and iconic work from past members. The show will go from 10am to 5pm on both dates. 

🎨 Paint Pouring Party: Head to Darcy’s Pub this May 27 for a paint pouring party with Michele and Shea. Going from 7 to 8:30pm, get hands-on experience with paint pouring and create your own work of art. Tickets are available online.

What’s Offshore?

No ships today!

Westshore Snaps

I “herd” Colwood is the place to be. —Lynne Cuillerier, Colwood

That’s it!

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