Ontario’s political parties have been urged by the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries (FOPL) to pledge their support for public libraries across the province ahead of the upcoming election.

“Local public libraries are Ontario’s farthest-reaching, most cost-effective public resource and community hub. Millions of Ontarians rely on local public libraries in their communities: to work, to learn, to connect to the community and government services, and to find or train for a job,” the federation said in a Feb. 18 press release.

“Despite this, many individuals and families across the province are unable to access the local public library resources they need as libraries’ resources and dedicated staff are increasingly overstretched,” the added.

When political parties and candidates across Ontario share their vision for the province, the executive director of FOPL, Dina Stevens, has asked them to remember public libraries.

“We are encouraging our members and the people across Ontario to share what public libraries mean to them in conversation with political candidates,” Stevens said.

“Ask how candidates in your riding plan to support public libraries if they are elected and vote to support your local public library,” added Stevens.

Paul Ainslie, FOPL Board Chair and Toronto City Councillor has also urged candidates to recognize the impact of public libraries and commit to funding them.

“Ontario’s public libraries are vital hubs, supporting job skills, mental health, student success, and newcomer immigration,” Ainslie said.

“A vote for libraries is a vote for a stronger Ontario,” he added.