to support the library through local taxes. A referendum was scheduled for January 1934. The timing was difficult since taxpayers were asked to vote in favour of higher taxes during a severe economic depression. Stewart and her staff launched a massive campaign of public meetings, handouts, posters, and newspaper articles to gain support. Twenty of the original 24 areas voted "yes" and the Fraser Valley Union Library was created as the first regional library system in North America. The resources of the Carnegie Demonstration Project were turned over to the new Library Board of Management on September 28, 1934, during a ceremony held in Chilliwack, BC. At this time, Stewart left the Fraser Valley to organize other regional libraries. Soon after, the library headquarters was relocated to its present location in Abbotsford, British Columbia. In order to establish the first operating budget, board members voted a per capita tax rate of 35 cents. This low rate of support was a severe handicap to the library service until 1950, when the rate was raised to 40 cents. Even with member municipalities providing rent-free facilities, the library system has always had a challenge of operating with one of the lowest tax levies in the province. Present day In 1951, the official name was changed to the Fraser Valley Regional Library District (FVRL). FVRL is the largest public library system in British Columbia. FVRL is governed by a board of directors and financially supported by its member municipalities and through a Government of BC operating grant. Board members are elected officials of its member municipalities. Special collections World languages FVRL has recognized the need to better serve the culturally diverse communities in which it operates and has allotted $80,000 per year to its World Languages Collection. The collection is split between the 24 branches and consists of over 42,000 items in 14 languages. It includes a mix of both adult and children's fiction and non-fiction books, DVDs and CDs. Lifelong learning programs FVRL supports lifelong learning and literacy. To promote ongoing learning and literacy within the community FVRL offers various programs and workshops for all age groups from toddlers to seniors. Programs include: Storytimes Author readings Computer and Internet classes Credit management Family reading clubs How to write a will Awards Locations FVRL has an Administrative Centre located in Abbotsford and 25 community branches located in 15 municipalities. References External links Fraser Valley