Commentary

Join the Orangeville Public Library and help guide the future of library services

November 5, 2026   ·   0 Comments

With the municipal election behind us, the incoming Orangeville council will appoint members to a new library board. Applications are now open on the Town of Orangeville’s Boards and Committees site, and we’re looking for people who will bring their experience, ideas, and knowledge of this community to the table.

Public libraries are a vital part of a community’s social infrastructure. They provide equitable access to information, technology, and places to learn, helping people build skills and explore new ideas. They also provide a special third space, somewhere between work and home, where people can meet others and make human connections. People rely on these services, and making good decisions about their future takes thought and care.

That is where the board comes in.

Under Ontario’s Public Libraries Act, library boards govern public libraries. Council appoints the Orangeville Public Library Board, which sets the library’s overall direction, policies, and financial oversight. Library management works with the board to carry out that direction and lead the staff who deliver our services. The library also works closely with the town, whose funding and support are essential to delivering these services.

Board members ask questions, consider the information before them, and make decisions together. They also help explain the library’s value and advocate for the resources it needs.

The coming term will include an opportunity to contribute to a new strategic plan. This means listening to the community and choosing where we should focus our efforts. What do Orangeville residents truly need from their library? Who could we be reaching more effectively? How can we make the best use of our spaces and resources?

We need different perspectives to answer those questions well.

Experience in business, finance, non-profit organizations, human resources, information technology, law, education, or community development would all be valuable. So would experience volunteering, working with community groups, or understanding the barriers people face when trying to access services.

You don’t need to arrive knowing everything about public libraries; you just need to be willing to prepare, listen, learn, and work through decisions with others.

To be considered for the board, applicants must be at least 18 years old, be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, and meet the residency requirements under the Public Libraries Act. Employees of the Town of Orangeville cannot serve on the board. Full eligibility and application details are available through Orangeville’s Boards and Committees webpage.

Members should generally allow six to ten hours a month for meetings, reading materials, board correspondence, and other responsibilities, including library events and advocacy. Members will also learn more in 2027 as they complete orientation and begin strategic planning.

Applications open Oct. 30 and close Nov. 20 at 11:59 p.m. Visit orangeville.ca and look for “Boards and Committees.”

We’re also holding an information session on Tuesday, Nov. 10, where you can meet library leadership and current board members to ask questions and learn more before applying.

Another way to get involved is through the Friends of the Orangeville Public Library.

Our friends are volunteers who support the library through fundraising, events, and program support. Their book sales turn community donations into support for library resources and activities, including the Battle of the Books held each spring.

Joining the Friends of the Orangeville Public Library group is a chance to meet people, contribute your time, and see the results of your efforts here in Orangeville. Visit the Friends of the Library page at orangevillelibrary.ca or ask our staff how to get involved.

We hope you’ll consider either opportunity or encourage someone you know who is passionate about community to contribute.  

Readers Comments (0)