#standupforCBRL

Image of envelope with a letter inside which reads "to whom it should concern" Text under envelope reads "Join us in asking our elected officials to stand up for your library. #standupforcbrl"

CAPE BRETON REGIONAL LIBRARY

MAY 31, 2021

Dear community members, 

In a recent library survey, “community” was one of the most oft-cited words used to describe the Cape Breton Regional Library. Whether it is providing an ever-expanding catalogue of free educational resources, exploring literacies, creating neighbourhood hubs for social engagement and connection, or supporting under-served populations, your responses made it clear that you consider CBRL as an important asset to your community.

It’s clear that our libraries are a vital resource and it has been widely acknowledged that making improvements to library infrastructure would have significant positive impacts on our communities. Despite these affirmations, CBRL still works with inadequate resources and outdated infrastructure. A lack of investment has and will continue to significantly impact our ability to meet the evolving needs of our community. Now, more than ever, support from our community leaders is critical. We need your help.

You can be a powerful library advocate by reaching out to our elected officials and community leaders and asking them to stand up for Cape Breton Regional Library. Remind them that libraries foster an informed and engaged community, support economic growth and development and provide a valuable return on investment. Tell them how the library has impacted your life and make sure they know why the library is so important to you and your community.

We are so thankful for your support. Your voice matters.

Sincerely, 

Cape Breton Regional Library

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Write, write, write: 

Writing a letter to an elected official is an effective way to make your voice heard. Send an e-mail or mail a letter to your local municipal councillor, MLA, or MP. Not sure who your elected officials are or how to contact them? Check out the links below to find yours.

Connect on social media: 

Most, if not all, elected officials are using social media to communicate with constituents, share their stances on issues, and campaign for re-election. Social media is a great way to quickly reach out to your elected official. Remember: Tag them or their office and use the audience selector so your post can be viewed and shared. For information on how to make your post public, check out https://www.facebook.com/help/233739099984085

Contact Information for Elected Officials

Municipal

Provincial

Federal

LETTER TEMPLATE 

Do you need help writing your letter? Here is a simple template you

can use to get you started.

Simply copy and paste this letter and fill in the blanks with your own words!

__________________________

[Sender’s address] 

[Date] 

[Recipient’s address]

Dear [Councillor’s/ MLA / MP]

My name is [your name], and I am a patron of the Cape Breton Regional Library. [Briefly Introduce yourself. Provide personal details you are comfortable sharing, such as which community you live in and your occupation.]I am writing to you today to draw your attention to [briefly describe your reason for writing]. 

This issue is important because [here is where you will go into further detail about your issue or concern.] 

  • Bullet points are useful for clarity 
  • But not too many – still aim to be concise 
  • A few strong points will make a better impact than a laundry list of complaints. AND/OR 

As a library user, this issue is important to me for several reasons, including/such as/because… [use personal examples or stories here].

I am asking that you [describe how you would like the official to act.] If you have further questions or need clarification about this issue, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Thank you for your attention in this matter.

Sincerely,

[Your name] 

[Your contact information, including address, phone number, and email address]

Thank you for supporting your library!