The Toronto Public Library Board met on December 14, 2015 at the Toronto Reference Library. Key topics discussed include:
Strategic Plan
The Board approved the Library’s 2016-2019 strategic plan priorities, goals and outcomes (PDF). After research and consultation, the six priority areas of the new plan are:
- Advancing our digital platforms
- Breaking down barriers to access, driving inclusion
- Expanding access to technology and training
- Establishing TPL as Toronto’s centre for continuous and self-directed learning
- Creating community connections through cultural experiences
- Transforming for 21st century service excellence
The Board also approved key activities to achieve strategic plan priorities in 2016. A plan for presenting and communicating the plan to the public will be presented early in the new year.
Survey of Torontonians
A recent survey (PDF) of Torontonians conducted by Forum Research for Toronto Public Library as part of the strategic plan consultation found that:
- 76% of Torontonians 18+ indicated they have visited a branch, accessed tpl.ca, or contacted the library by phone in the past 12 months
- This figure rises to 80% when social media visits are included
- 95% of residents are satisfied with TPL and the quality of library services in Toronto
- 94% are satisfied with the knowledge and helpfulness of library staff
Overall awareness of library services has increased compared to 2012 results, particularly around access to ebooks and digital library services. The full survey will be available on the library’s website shortly.
Youth Participation
Based on teen interest in participating in TPL’s decision-making process, the Library will more meaningfully engage (PDF) its network of youth advisory groups and other teen library users and non-users on topics that would be of interest to youth and the Board. A variety of teens will attend focus groups and board meetings and will have the opportunity for direct engagement with the TPL board.
Toronto Public Library is one of the world's busiest urban public library systems. Every year, 19 million people visit our branches in neighbourhoods across the city and borrow 32 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit torontopubliclibrary.ca or call Answerline at 416-393-7131. To get the most current updates on what's happening at the library, follow us on Twitter @torontolibrary.
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Media Contact:
Ana-Maria Critchley, 416-393-7212, media@torontopubliclibrary.ca