Barrie Public Library Board

The Barrie Public Library Board is a nonprofit organization that oversees the governance of the Barrie Public Library system in Barrie, Ontario, Canada. The library system has played a vital role in providing educational and cultural resources to the community since its inception in 1862.

Structure and Governance

The Barrie Public Library Board is a nine-member board composed of seven citizen members and two City Councillors, all appointed by the City Council for a term of four years. This governance structure is mandated under the Provincial Public Libraries Act. The Board is responsible for several key roles:

• Policy Direction: The Board provides overall policy direction to ensure the library remains a dynamic community partner.
• Advocacy: It advocates for adequate funding to deliver library services that meet the needs of the community.
• Management Practices: The Board ensures that good management practices are followed to maintain the library's efficiency and effectiveness.

Meetings and Transparency

Board meetings are generally held on the fourth Thursday of each month, except for July, August, and December. The meetings are open to the public unless a closed session is necessary as prescribed by legislation. This transparency allows community members to stay informed about library decisions and initiatives.

Library Services and Branches

The Barrie Public Library itself operates with three main branches and additional kiosks, offering a wide range of services including:

• Collection: The library houses business directories, phone books, maps, government publications, books, periodicals, genealogy resources, and local history materials.
• Programs and Services: It provides information and reference services, access to full-text databases, internet access, reader's advisory services, and programs for children, youth, and adults.
• Branch Locations: The library branches are located at key sites across Barrie, enhancing accessibility for residents.

History and Development

The library system was established in 1862, with significant developments over the years including the opening of new branches. The most recent expansion was the Holly branch, which began operations in 2022.

The Barrie Public Library Board plays a crucial role in promoting literacy, education, and community engagement through its governance and oversight of the library system.