Overview of Chinook Regional Library
The Chinook Regional Library has provided public library service to Southwest Saskatchewan since 1971 through its network of 31 Branch libraries and 13 Corner libraries. The library covers an area of 49,949 sq. km. (19,286 sq. miles) and serves a population of 47,337.
We are dedicated to providing inclusive and welcoming services that strengthen and sustain lifelong learning in our communities.
The Regional Library obtains its revenue through an annual provincial government grant and annual contributions from the 93 participating municipalities. With these funds, we maintain an administrative headquarters and provide books and programs to residents of all ages throughout the Southwest. The regional headquarters is centrally located in Swift Current.
We are governed by a board composed of appointed representatives from each participating municipality. Annually, an executive is elected from the board to carry out the day-to-day business of the board and the operation of the regional library.
The Chinook Regional Library is part of the provincial public library network, which consists of eight regional systems and three municipal systems, in Regina, Saskatoon and Prince Albert.
Please visit your nearest public library ... we are at your service.
Corner Libraries
The Corner Libraries provide a paperback lending service only and are established in communities that were previously serviced by the now discontinued Bookmobile service. Corner Libraries include communities within the Chinook Regional Library System coverage area: Admiral, Aneroid, Bracken, Cadillac, Golden Prairie, Hazenmore, Lancer, Mccord, Mendham, Neville, Richmound, Shamrock, and Success. Hours are subject to change - please contact Chinook Headquarters for further details.
Brief History of Saskatchewan Libraries
1909
Regina Public Library opened.
1913
Saskatoon and Moose Jaw Public Libraries opened.
Saskatchewan Public Libraries Act:
1914
Travelling Libraries:
Open Shelf Service:
1918
Swift Current Public Library opened May 1.
1946
Regional Libraries Act:
1950
North Central Saskatchewan Regional Library ( now called Wapiti) established in Prince Albert.
1953
Provincial Library formed:
1965
Southeast Saskatchewan Regional Library (now called Southeast Regional Library) established in Weyburn.
1967
Wheatland Regional Library established after a two-year bookmobile demonstration project was completed in the area around Saskatoon.
1968
Parkland Regional Library established in Yorkton.
1971
Chinook Regional Library established on June 1 in Swift Current.
1972
Lakeland Library Region established in North Battleford.
1973
Palliser Regional Library established in Moose Jaw.
1991
Pahkisimon Nuye-ah Library System established in Air Ronge.