In Ontario, there are 133 First Nation Communities. Only 50 of those communities have public libraries.

• First Nation communities cannot raise taxes for public library development. Only 38% of First Nation communities in Ontario have public libraries. Almost all those communities rely on a small, annual grant to fund staff.
• Did you know that social assistance costs 20 times more (in a person’s lifetime) than a University education for one person? Public Libraries support secondary and post-secondary students to achieve their fullest potential.
• A 1% increase in average literacy rates yields a 1.5% permanent increase in the Gross Domestic Product. Improving literacy skills in Aboriginal communities can be an important tool for socioeconomic development.
• Language and cultural literacy are key to developing a stronger sense of First Nations’ identity and individual empowerment. Most of the 50 remaining Aboriginal Languages in Canada are in danger of becoming extinct.
• Aboriginal people are underrepresented in all employment sectors and all forms of media. Public library resources allow First Nations people to see themselves positively reflected in literature, history, art and music.
• First Nations communities face increasing rates of diabetes, obesity and smoking related illnesses. Information for a healthy lifestyle is vital for this growing population.
• Many First Nation communities suffer from a digital divide. The number of homes with computers and internet access is substantially lower than the national average.
• Aboriginal children fare worse than most in almost all situations that influence health. Improving socio-economic conditions of Aboriginal parents and children will benefit the health of Aboriginal families.