Lambton County Library has new meeting rooms available to book for free at select locations.
Supervisor Greer Macdonell told Sarnia News Today they recognize that, in some locations, the library may be the only public space for groups and individuals to gather for meetings or presentations.
"The spaces provide people an opportunity to meet with community organizations or government agencies," said Macdonell. "Transportation is a huge barrier. This is a big county, and we wanted to make sure that the library can offer people a chance to reach out to the organizations or the agencies that they need to and get the help they need."
The meeting rooms are available in six locations; the Alvinston, Corunna, Forest, Thedford, and Wyoming branches, as well as the connection cube at Sarnia Library.
Macdonell said this type of space has been requested for a long time.
"Yes, we would get asked a lot, 'Do you have a private spot where I can have a meeting with someone?'" Macdonell said. "We've had people ask for employment purposes for spaces to do interviews with members of the public. We certainly heard the need and this is just a wonderful opportunity for people to find something in their community that supports their needs."
Macdonell said the rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis when the libraries are open.
Each meeting room is furnished with tables and chairs, power sources, and access to free Wi-Fi.
"Each of the meeting rooms has an iPad that someone can use. Those iPads could be used for ZOOM meetings or team meetings. Really, it supports all the platforms. Those are free to use as well."
Macdonell said commercial enterprises are not eligible to book meeting room space.
A library card isn't needed to make a reservation, but you are required to provide a name, address, phone number, and a piece of photo ID.
Macdonell says the identification must be verified at the library service desk before the space is used.
The meeting rooms were funded by the Government of Ontario’s Municipal Modernization Program.
For more information, or to book one, go to lclibrary.ca