Capital Campaign

See below for a media release from Belleville Public Library and John M. Parrott Art Gallery:

8 July 2026

For immediate release:

Belleville Public Library launches capital campaign for mobile and self-serve library service expansion

The Belleville Public Library Board is pleased to announce the launch of a capital campaign to raise funds for the expansion of library services through the introduction of self-serve and mobile technology. This approach will extend services throughout our community and provide more convenience for patrons who live outside of the downtown core.

Through the use of return bins, hold pick-up lockers, and vending machines, Belleville Public Library will provide convenient drop-off and pick-up options at several locations in our municipality. Once in place, patrons can choose to request material through the online catalogue and select one of the pick-up points available.  A notification will be sent to indicate that items are available at the requested location, and items can then be retrieved with a valid library card.

Over the next 3 to 5 years, we hope to develop several convenient pick-up / drop-off locations, with the first installation planned for 2027.  Possible locations include retail shops, municipal facilities, transit hubs, and sporting venues.  There is currently a return bin located at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre that may offer an opportunity to install a hold pick-up locker or vending machine.

In addition to fixed pick-up and drop-off locations, the Board is looking forward to the implementation of a mobile library (i.e. bookmobile) to provide outreach and library collections to all parts of our municipality. Bookmobiles provide pick-up and return services, wireless internet, a browsing collection, card registration, and drop-in programming and outreach activities. Visits to schools, long-term care facilities, parks, festivals, concerts, and more will also be possible.

Bookmobiles represent a flexible and efficient alternative to costly brick-and-mortar branch locations. Mobile services can be particularly valuable to rural communities where transportation to the main branch may be challenging.

In addition to soliciting donations, the Board will also offer opportunities for sponsorships and limited advertising. Grant funding will be pursued from private and government sources. Funds raised will be placed in reserve for the purchase, operation and maintenance of self-serve and mobile equipment. To date, there has been over $20,000 in donated funds collected in this new reserve fund.

If you are interested in donating to support this initiative, or would like information on sponsorship options, please contact Administration at the number below. Donations can also be made online at CanadaHelps.org or in person at the downtown branch.

Councillor Paul Carr, Chair of the Belleville Public Library Board, comments:

 “The Library Board has identified the extension of library services through mobile and self-service technology to be a key initiative over the next three years and are pleased to be launching this capital campaign. The Belleville Public Library will be seeking private donations, sponsorships, and grants with the support of all levels of government. We look forward to offering more library services for our residents to enjoy in every corner of the municipality, including with the introduction of a mobile library, otherwise known as a bookmobile.”

Jonathan Powell, Coordinator of Outreach and Cultural Services, comments:

 “I am excited for Belleville Public Library to extend services beyond our physical walls through innovative tools like a bookmobile and library vending machines. Securing funding through this capital campaign will help us build a modern, mobile library system to meet people exactly where they are.”

 Trevor Pross, CEO, comments:

 “Public libraries are for everyone, and this initiative will help ensure that library services are available to everyone in our municipality, regardless of where they live, work or play. I look forward to working with private and public partners to raise funds to support mobile and self-service options to benefit the residents of Belleville for years to come.”