Stronger libraries. Stronger communities.

Photo above: Markham Public Library (MPL) is the leader in digital literacy. With its unique makerspaces, MPL provides the community with access to top-notch equipment and technology such as 3D printers, vinyl cutters, digital embroidery machine, green screen, laser cutter and many more. MPL provides a space for the community to learn, grow and collaborate with others. It also offers free expert help by the Library's Digital Literacy Specialists. Photo taken pre-COVID. View a selection of the photos submitted.

Read the Inaugural Strategic Plan.
A Message from our CEO.

Learn More about the Ontario Library Service Strategic Plan!

The inaugural Ontario Library Service Strategic Plan 2021/22 – 2025/26 was created with input from key stakeholders including OLS staff, board members, and Public Library clients.  I appreciate the time and energy you invested in sharing your feedback on what effective services would look like from the Ontario Library Service through a survey, focus groups, and formal feedback.  Your perspectives have informed this work and I hope that you see your contributions reflected in this Strategic Plan.

The Ontario Library Service is committed to providing responsive, reliable, trusted services and supports to the public library sector in Ontario so that you are best able to meet the needs of your unique communities.  We look forward to continuing to support the amazing work Public Library leaders, staff and board members are engaged in.

Learn more and download the Strategic Plan.

Mellissa D’Onofrio-Jones, MLIS
CEO/Directrice Générale
Ontario Library Service
Service des bibliothèques Ontario
mdonofrio.jones@olservice.ca

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Latest blog posts from the Ontario Library Service.

Going Fine Free: The Public Library Debate

Jun 21,2021
On June 10, 2021 the Ontario Library Service and the OPLA Research and Evaluation Committee partnered to host a panel session and live ONLibChat on the fine free movement in public libraries. Throughout the first

Thank you to the Ontario library community!

Mar 25,2021
Last fall, amid news that the OLS-North and SOLS would be amalgamating, I indicated that I would retire at the end of March 2021. It’s hard to believe that day is quickly approaching. Like many before me who’ve

Blog Series: What can you do as a Library Board to improve the relationship between your municipal council and the public library? (Post #4 of 4)

Mar 18,2021
In a series of guest blogs library board members Andrew Hallikas and Caroline Goulding will be exploring the question What can you do as a Library Board to improve the relationship between your municipal council

Blog Series: What can you do as a Library Board to improve the relationship between your municipal council and the public library? (Post #3 of 4)

Mar 3,2021
In a series of guest blogs library board members Andrew Hallikas and Caroline Goulding will be exploring the question What can you do as a Library Board to improve the relationship between your municipal council
I wanted to thank you and OLS for the money and work you have put in to making OverDrive a great place to get digital content for our members. It has been wonderful to be able to get new members on to OverDrive and there be a such great selection of books available for them to borrow right away. It makes it so much easier for us to push our digital books when we know there are great books to borrow.
Clarence-Rockland Public Library
Our library has worked with First Nation Consultants at OLS - North on projects encompassing all areas of librarianship, including developing and delivering community programming.
Wikwemikong Public Library
The Ontario Library Service (OLS) holds a fundamental role in networking the libraries in Ontario together. The OLS Consultants and staff augment our professional resources, network library trustees, provide policy suggestions based on changing legislation, offer courses and training for front-line staff, and allows us to share our collections with people across the province.
Essa Public Library
I really appreciate the support from OLS - North during these times. The platforms you've hosted have been invaluable for important conversations to take place
Greater Sudbury Public Library
In the last several years, OLS has greatly improved its educational offerings and its work with the OLA and FOPL to bring the sector together in a positive and productive way.
Burlington Public Library
(OLS) meetings offer valuable peer support, networking, troubleshooting and opportunities to keep abreast of our to do lists as CEOs. Keep doing what you are doing and growing to offer more supports, networking and collaborative opportunities!
Duoro-Dummer Public Library