Despite being in the age of the internet, the latest statistic released by the Moose Jaw Public Library shows the library is still a valuable resource for knowledge.

The library gave their annual report for 2019 to Moose Jaw city council on Monday night.

In the report, library chairperson Sarah Simison said over 282,000 items were circulated in Moose Jaw and provincially in 2019, an increase of about 500.

The circulation of digital items increased 15 per cent and the video game collection circulation increased 24 per cent.

"The library continues to analyze the community's use of the physical and digital collection in order to ensure that the funds allocated to materials are directed towards areas of greatest impact," Simison said.

"Other reasons for visiting the library include finding a quiet place to study with reliable open hours, the use of our local history archives and many of our other services."

The library fielded over 25,000 inquires in 2019, including over 10,000 that were considered reference questions. These include questions about computer and technology training, in-depth research, genealogical questions and book recommendations.

The inquires to the library was an increase of 17.8 per cent.

About 8,800 people took part in 541 programs that took place over the course of last year. The library showed a 94 per cent spike in people taking part in adult programs.

"Examples of partnership programs include Tai Chi and conversation hub with the Moose Jaw Chinese Association and Dungeons and Dragons with the Moose Jaw Gamers," Simison said.

"We've also expanded upon programming geared towards specific groups like our Imagine Learning program which is a partnership program with MJ families for change and added an additional site to our outreach program for seniors homes that are meant to help stimulate the mind and keep people learning across the ages"

Simison was the library has put more energy into promoting their social media sites and their Facebook page had a 19.8 per cent increase in likes. She expects their social media presence will expand this year with the physical closure of the library due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The library was also honoured o the 2019 TD Summer Reading Club Accessibility Award for their effects to include children of all abilities to take part in the summer reading program.

Simison said in receiving the award one parent commented that they "appreciated being invited in a community program where their daughter, who had multiple disabilities felt welcomed."

Simison also highlighted the fact that the Friends of the Library were nominated for the 2019 Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce Group of the Year Award.