Overview
We work with decision-makers at all levels of government to ensure public libraries are recognized as essential community infrastructure. Our members play a vital role in supporting education, digital access, and community wellbeing across Ontario.
Through coordinated advocacy, FOPL advances sector-wide priorities, contributes to policy discussions, and develops resources to support consistent, evidence-based messaging. Our work is informed by member input and grounded in the realities of library service delivery across communities of all sizes.
Current Priorities
FOPL advocates for the policies and investments libraries need to respond to changing community needs. Our current priorities include:
- Increase provincial funding for Ontario’s public libraries to address critical shared priorities and community needs: Advocating for a $25 million annual investment, in addition to existing provincial operating funding, to provide predictable, flexible funding for local public libraries.
- Creation of an Ontario Digital Public Library: Advocating for an annual investment of $10-$20 million to provide all Ontarians with equitable access to high-quality digital learning resources through their local public library.
- Development of a province-wide strategy addressing mental health, addiction, and homelessness: Strengthen housing, health, and community supports and address the impacts of these crises on public libraries, the projected cost of which will be based on the identified solution developed by the provincial government in consultation with municipalities and other stakeholders.
- Establishment of a sustainable funding model for public libraries on reserve: Build on the enhanced funding committed in the 2024 Ontario Budget to ensure that these important local hubs are fully funded and viable, with projected costs based on the identified model and requirements.
FOPL works with government and sector partners to advance these priorities and strengthen public library service across Ontario. Additional resources, including current documents and an extensive archive, are available in the Member Portal.
Advocacy Award
The FOPL Advocacy Award recognizes an individual, group, or organization whose advocacy has significantly advanced the mission, visibility, and value of public libraries. This award celebrates leadership, innovation, and meaningful impact in the promotion and defence of public libraries.
The next deadline for nomination submission is September 30, 2026.
