Training & Development

FOPL supports strong library leadership across Ontario through training, research, and sector-wide learning opportunities.

Overview

We provide professional development, governance resources, and sector insights that support library boards, CEOs, and staff.

Our work focuses on strengthening leadership capacity, supporting informed decision-making, and ensuring public libraries are well-positioned to serve their communities. Learning opportunities are informed by member needs and reflect priorities across the sector.


Events

FOPL offers a range of learning opportunities, including workshops, webinars, and sector sessions focused on governance, advocacy, and emerging issues.

Events are open to all participants for a registration fee, with complimentary access for FOPL members.

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Q3 Board Meeting

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Event Details

Q4 Board Meeting

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Event Details

Additional Services

In addition to training and events, FOPL offers a range of services that support library leadership and local decision-making. These services include:

  • Board-focused training on municipal advocacy, including strategies to represent library interests and engage local officials during municipal elections.
  • Individual consultation for any local advocacy-related issues.
  • Up-to-date sector data and custom reports that support analysis, benchmarking, and evidence-based decision-making.

These services are available to members and non-members, with preferred access and pricing for FOPL members. Please reach out to us for pricing and availability.


Archive

FOPL members have access to a growing archive of training materials, including past event recordings and research resources. These materials support ongoing learning and provide practical tools that can be applied across library systems of all sizes.

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2026 Ontario Public Library Service Awards

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 Ontario Public Library Service Awards. Deadline: The deadline for submitting your application is September 11th, 2026. Please submit your application through the following online submission form. About the Awards: The Ontario Public Library Service Awards recognize innovative programs and…
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Library Impact Ontario 2026 Information Sessions and Registration

Library Impact Ontario’s suite of free services empowers library professionals with robust, readily available data, resources, training and peer collaboration, strengthening data literacy and advocacy for public libraries across the province. The data behind Bridge has supported recent increased investments in library technology services, reinforcing its value as a reputable source of data that demonstrates…
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Winter 2025 Updates

An update from FOPL's Executive Director on recent work.
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Fall 2025 Updates

I am pleased to share an update on FOPL’s recent advocacy activities and initiatives over the past few months. Our work continues to focus on strengthening the profile of Ontario’s public libraries, advancing advocacy priorities, and providing meaningful services to our members. Conference Engagement & Tradeshow Activity AMO Conference (August 2025) FOPL had a strong…
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Reaching ALL Public Libraries: Supporting Canada’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy

The Government of Canada has launched an AI Strategy Task Force and a 30-day national sprint (October 1 – 31, 2025), to shape the country's AI approach. https://www.canada.ca/en/innovation-science-economic-development/news/2025/09/government-of-canada-launches-ai-strategy-task-force-and-public-engagement-on-the-development-of-the-next-ai-strategy.html Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada is conducting an online consultation through a survey to inform the development of a renewed Artificial Intelligence Strategy for 2026–2030. The…
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Bridge 2023-2024 Report: Impact of Technology Services in Ontario Public Libraries

We’re excited to share the Bridge 2023/2024 Report: Impact of Technology Services in Ontario Public Libraries with you, which shares results from 22 participating libraries with nearly 6,500 respondents. The report's findings highlight the critical role that Ontario public libraries play in connecting communities to technology services and supporting digital inclusion. https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/content/bridge/pdfs/2023-2024-impact-of-technology-services-in-ontario-public-libraries.pdf Some key insights…
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Strength Through Connection

FOPL membership connects your library to a province-wide network, amplifies local impact, and strengthens advocacy at every level of government.