Public Library Issues
Public libraries are consistently ranked within the top three services a community values most. Yet, their value and complexity of relevant services are not always understood. Included in this section are backgrounders, briefs, and resources to support awareness and development of public library services and issues.
OLA's Recommendations for Public Library Funding
The Ontario Library Association, with the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries (FOPL), submit recommendations as part of Ontario’s annual pre-budget consultation process.
- You can read the latest Library Pre-Budget Submissions here.
- For up-to-date information on all OLA’s government relations efforts, visit Government Consultations and Letters.
Advocate for Your Public Library
Download the Value of Public Libraries Postcard (Bilingual 2022) or create your own using our template on Canva to create your own Value of Public Libraries Postcard.
Fines Free Libraries (2022)
Public libraries have traditionally collected fines for library items that are returned after the due date and have charged replacement fees for items that have been lost or damaged. Library fines were previously considered a deterrent to late returns, damage, or loss of items. However, fines can also be a significant barrier which prevents users from accessing the resources of a public library and doesn’t necessarily act as the intended deterrent. Learn about how to become a fines-free library.
