Welcome to Community @ ECRL, your home for library-based community well-being and public health initiatives. 

For immediate release: ECRL Supports Community Well-Being (PDF available here)

Public libraries across the province have increased public health resources in recent years, most notably through COVID-19 test distribution during the pandemic. The library's capacity to support community well-being continues to expand. ECRL wants to announce that it now offers HIV self-test kits at all ECRL library locations.  

Community Well-Being & Public Health Initiatives at ECRL

ECRL provides free access to the following resources at all branch locations:

• COVID tests         
• Menstrual, incontinence, and diaper products
•          Food security resources, including seed libraries
•          NEW! HIV self-test kits

Community Well-Being & Public Health Initiatives Sustainability

Community Well-Being & Public Health initiatives at ECRL are funded through grants and other one-time funding opportunities through the provincial government. ECRL strives to ensure equitable access to services across its service area, including to well-being and public health resources. Clair Rankin, ECRL Board Chair, said, “It’s tremendous the province has been able to provide funding so that public libraries can make an even greater positive impact in these new ways. I know library staff are proud to be part of these efforts for their communities.” 

Current Library Initiatives

COVID-19 Rapid Test Kits: Available at all ECRL branch locations near library entrances. Each kit contains 5 rapid tests and instructions.

Menstrual, Incontinence, and Diaper Products: Available at all branch locations in public washrooms and/or library display. 

HIV Self Test Kits: Available at all branch locations with other public health & community wellbeing resources. Each kit contains one self-test kit and information. 

Food Security: Seed libraries available at all branch locations (year round!), enhanced collections (new materials to be announced soon), and a public survey was released in September to understand community priorities. 

Food Security @ ECRL Survey Results

Local & Provincial Resources