Layoffs confirmed at the Medicine Hat Public Library

By Medicine Hat News on April 16, 2020.

Managers at the Medicine Hat Public Library are confirming that two-thirds of the staff was laid off this week, which could add up to 35 positions.

Chief librarian Ken Feser said that the closure to the general public during the COVID-19 pandemic and lack of programming with schools that are also closed meant there was little “meaningful” work to accomplish.

“Laying off a proportion of the library staff was the responsible thing to due with public funds,” said Feser. “We value and appreciate our library staff and all the good work they do to enhance literacy and build community, which is why this was such a difficult decision.”

No exact number on the number of positions affected was available, but according to the most recent annual report, the facility employed 53 full- and part-time staff members.

The Medicine Hat Public Library is managed by a board that is legally independent from the City of Medicine Hat, though city hall provides annual grant funding as well as owns the downtown facility.

Camping delayed

The Gas City Campground will not open as scheduled in May as the response to the coronavirus pandemic continues, city administrators announced on Tuesday night.

“We are optimistic that we will still open this summer, and (at this time) will continue to receive reservations between the months of June and September,” stated parks manager Scott Richter, who said delaying the opening was in the best interest of the health and safety of guests and staff.

Those who had booked reservations during that month will receive refunds in the same fashion as payments were made.