KENORA — The Kenora Library is upping its offerings for outdoor activities, while honouring a Bassmasters Classic winning angler.
Starting in a couple of weeks, Kenora Library CEO Crystal Alcock said its Library of Things will be adding some additional equipment for patrons to loan.
Gussy's Kids Fishing Corner, named in honour of Kenora's Jeff Gustafson, who won the 2023 Bassmaster Classic, will provide fishing rods, tackle, and life jackets for those who would like to see what they can catch this summer.
“We want to provide that access. That is why we are starting with these different initiatives just to provide more opportunities for families and children to try different things,” Alcock said.
Kenora city council also awarded Gustafson with a commemorative plaque, which will be hung in the Lake of the Woods Discovery Centre, and donated funding for Gussy’s Kids Fishing Corner for the equipment.
“He's a good role model for children. Children look up to him. He's very humble," Alcock said. "He's passionate about fishing, which is super. It's a pastime for many people around our area and kids.”
The Kenora Library implemented the Library of Things Initiative at the tail end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting with loaning puzzles, the Library of Things expanded to get patrons outdoors and into the community with snowshoe loans, pickle ball rackets, disc golf sets, Ontario Provincial Park passes, and passes to the Muse.
With the addition of fishing equipment, patrons can now explore the Lake of the Woods and experience fishing.
“It's a sport good to be in and just spend time in the outdoors fishing and exploring nature. It, hopefully, will build a sense of curiosity and respect for nature in the kids in our community,” said Alcock.
