Working alongside our partners at the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries (FOPL), OLA is continuing advocacy for Ontario’s libraries. Our 2024 Budget Recommendations are: 

Public Libraries

• Provide critical e-learning support and fair access to modern, digital resources for all Ontario public libraries through the creation of an Ontario Digital Public Library, leveraging the province’s significant purchasing power to give all Ontarians access to a universal set of high-quality e-learning & online resources through their local public library.
• Working alongside First Nations Public Library leaders, implement a sustainable funding model for public libraries on reserve to ensure that these important local hubs are fully-funded and viable. As an immediate first step, enhance the existing direct provincial funding support for public libraries on reserve (the First Nations Salary Supplement) to sustainably fund library operations and ensure a living income for frontline library staff in these communities.
• Increase provincial operating funding for Ontario’s public libraries to address critical shared priorities and community needs.

School Libraries

• Mandate that school boards must spend funding allocated by the Ministry of Education for school libraries, staffing and resources on this critical component for student success. They should also be made to fully complete the corresponding accountability and planning measures now required under the Grants for Student Needs.