2025 Year In Review
MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO & CHAIR
Lauren Jessop CEO
Austin Mitchell Board Chair
This past year has been one of meaningful progress, thoughtful planning, and bold steps toward the future of our library system.
A key milestone was the launch of our new Strategic Plan, which sets our priorities and strategic direction for 2025–2028. While we continue advancing important work already underway – building awareness, strengthening partnerships, and deepening community connections – we have also introduced new priorities. These include enhancing data-informed decision-making and fostering a resilient organizational culture that will support sustainable growth for years to come.
Growth remains essential to meeting the evolving needs of our community, and in 2025 we made significant strides toward expanding the Barrie Public Library system. In partnership with Barrie City Council, we secured a location for our fourth branch, in the Letitia Heights community – an established neighbourhood with a clear need for accessible public spaces and community services. We eagerly anticipate opening the doors to this new location in late 2026.
We were also proud to launch a meaningful new partnership with Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre. In December, we introduced a self-serve library kiosk adjacent to Victoria’s Gift Shop, offering the gift of reading to patients, visitors, volunteers, and staff. Alongside the kiosk, a welcoming Book Nook – a take-abook, leave-a-book collection – provides open access to reading materials for all.
As we expand and enhance our services, we remain firmly committed to fiscal responsibility, carefully balancing growing community demand with rising costs for materials and infrastructure. Stewardship and service continue to guide every decision we make.
Each day, we hear inspiring stories that remind us of the library’s profound impact –stories of connection, discovery, learning, and belonging. They reinforce the vital role the library plays in our community and motivate us to continually strive for excellence.
We are grateful for the continued support of our partners, staff, volunteers, donors, and community members. Together, we look forward to building on this momentum and serving Barrie with energy and purpose in 2026 and beyond.
2025 AT A GLANCE
Austin Mitchell (Chair)
Michael Sauro (Vice-Chair)
Amy Courser (Councillor Representative)
Nigussie Nigussie (Councillor Representative)
John Bicknell (Trustee)
(Trustee)
(Trustee)
(Trustee)
TRENDS OVER TIME: 2021-2025
1. Active Memberships include patrons who borrowed physical materials over the past 2 years.
2. Collection Use includes checkouts and renewals.
3. Digital Visits includes website and catalogue visits.
4. Reference Questions include requests for information that require library knowledge and excludes directional or basic questions.
5. Social Media Followers includes Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
S TRATEGIC PLAN: 2025-2028
Our 2025–2028 Strategic Plan positions us to grow with purpose and intention. As our community expands, we are strengthening the systems, processes, and people that support our work—ensuring we are prepared to scale thoughtfully and sustainably. We are proud of the progress already underway and energized by the opportunities that lie ahead.
Awareness and Connections
We will build community engagement and support through marketing initiatives, partnerships, community participation, and collaboration.
Data-Driven Operations
We will systematically enhance the library’s collection and use of data across the organization for improved analysis and decision making
Culture of Resiliency
We will foster an organizational culture where staff development is aligned with our mission and goals and knowledge is shared in an open and welcoming environment.
Growth
We will continue to push for growth beyond our current walls, to align with Master Facilities Plan recommendations and reach more residents in Barrie.
MEMBERSHIPS
The Barrie Public Library welcomed more than 10,000 new members for the fourth consecutive year – a strong indicator of the Library’s growing reach and relevance in our community.
Following focused membership campaigns in 2023 and 2024, we have continued to build on that momentum as more residents discover all that a library card makes possible. From access to books and digital collections, to programs, events, and welcoming spaces to connect, membership remains the gateway to opportunity, learning, and community engagement.
New Memberships: 2021-2025
Members by Patron Type
Members by Patron Type: 2025
Active Memberships: 2021-2025
Active members are defined as members who have borrowed at least one physical item through the year. Digital Library members who only borrow digital items like audiobooks and eBooks are not included in these numbers.
Celebrating the official lease signing for the new Letitia Heights Branch!
Branching out to northwest Barrie
We are thrilled to have our next location officially on the books. In late 2025, Barrie City Council approved the lease agreement for a 4,800 sq. ft. community library at 420 Leacock Drive. The new location will be named the Letitia Heights Branch, reflecting the surrounding neighbourhood it will proudly serve.
Following community consultation in spring 2025, planning is now underway to shape the programs, services, spaces, and collections that best meet local needs. With several schools nearby and close proximity to the Lampman Lane Community Centre, the branch will place a strong emphasis on youth services and family-focused programming. Renovations are expected to begin in spring 2026, with an anticipated public opening in late fall 2026.
Community response has been overwhelmingly positive and filled with excitement. In a particularly heartwarming show of support, a Grade 3 class from Andrew Hunter Elementary School wrote letters to City Council and the Library expressing their enthusiasm for the new branch – a powerful reminder of the impact this space will have for generations to come.
This is great news! The BPL is an incredible hub and the Letitia Heights community will absolutely benefit from this new branch!
LIBRARY VISITS
Library usage continues to rise, with more patrons walking through our doors than at any point since the pandemic. The Library has truly become our community’s “third space” – a welcoming place to belong beyond home or work. Inviting layouts, vibrant spaces, and a warm, joyful atmosphere help ensure that a first visit is never the last.
When reviewing Downtown visit numbers on the opposite page, it is important to note that Owen Street beside the Library was closed from July through December, including access to the drive-up book drop and Express Pick-up window. While the branch remained open throughout the construction period, reduced accessibility likely impacted overall visitation during those months.
Seasonality of Library Visits
together in our Creative Spaces
Seasonality of Library Visits: 2021-2025
Library visits continue to show clear seasonal patterns, with peaks in March and again in the summer months of July and August, followed by a gradual decline in late fall through December.
Since 2021, overall visits have steadily rebounded from the impact of the pandemic.
The consistent summer surge and strong March Break activity highlight the library’s role as a key destination during school holidays and community events, while year-over-year growth reflects sustained community engagement and increased demand for our spaces and services.
Sewing
Enjoying a summer day on our Rooftop Reading Garden
Total Library Visits: 2021-2025
Libraries for Life: Our Shared Story
During Ontario Public Library Week, we hosted a special event celebrating the Barrie Public Library’s past, present, and future.
At Libraries for Life: Our Shared Story, attendees took part in an interactive scavenger hunt to discover more about the library’s history and impact, followed by remarks and storytelling from CEO Lauren Jessop and other Barrie Public Library staff.
Guests were invited to explore a curated display of artifacts from the Barrie Public Library’s rich history, dating back to 1854, when the President of the Mechanic’s Institute first requested funding to establish a “library and instruments.”
We were thrilled to have Mayor Alex Nuttall join us to present a proclamation recognizing Ontario Public Library Week , where he spoke about his long history as a Barrie Public Library member and reiterated City Council’s support for the growth of our library system.
Representatives from the Ontario Library Association and the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries also shared remarks, highlighting the vital importance of continued support and funding for public libraries.
The afternoon offered a meaningful opportunity to reflect on how far we have come – and to look ahead with excitement at what’s still to come.
Mayor Nuttall and CEO Lauren Jessop
Listening to remarks and stories from staff
Learning about BPL through our scavenger hunt
Poster boards showcasing BPL’s rich history
PHYSICAL COLLECTIONS
Physical Circulation by Format: 2025
Physical Circulation by Format
Holdings by Location
Physical Collections by Location: 2025
Magazines & Newspapers
Multimedia (DVDs, Video Games, etc.) Library of Things
Discover and explore with our Library of Things
Our Library of Things continues to evolve in response to the needs and interests of our community, now featuring more than 40 items available to borrow free of charge with a library card.
In 2025, we expanded the collection with six new additions: Decodable Read-Alongs, Adventure Kits, Tablet Kits, Radon Detector Kits, and cultural passes providing complimentary admission to the Royal Ontario Museum and MacLaren Art Centre. The introduction of Tablet Kits and Adventure Kits was made possible through a generous donation from TD, an organization that is committed to strengthening communities and promoting sustainability.
NEW Tablet Kits help improve digital literacy
These additions to this unique collection reflect our commitment to supporting literacy, exploration, digital access, health awareness, and cultural engagement. By encouraging borrowing instead of buying, our Library of Things also promotes responsible consumption and the ability to ‘try before you buy’.
Downtown
Painswick
Holly Kiosks, Outreach Vehicles, Other
Visiting the MacLaren Art Centre
Community enthusiasm for the Library of Things remains strong. In 2025, the most popular items included Ontario Parks Vehicle Permits, Wye Marsh Family Day Passes, Tablet Kits, Telescopes, and Ghost Hunting Kits. The continued growth and popularity of the Library of Things demonstrates the library’s role as a hub for access, exploration, and shared community resources.
Top Titles of 2025
Adult Fiction
Kiosk Performance
Adult Non-Fiction
Celebrating local talent at our Local Author Book Market
2025 Local Author Book Market
Our annual Local Author Book Market returned in December, celebrating and supporting the vibrant talent within our community. This year, 38 authors of all ages participated, sharing readings from their works, connecting with new readers, and selling books just in time for holiday gift-giving.
The event provided a welcoming platform for local writers to showcase their creativity, engage directly with the public, and grow their audiences — reinforcing the Library’s role as a champion of local voices and a hub for literary culture in Barrie.
Thanks to Barrie Public Library for being an amazing supporter of local authors and an incredible resource for the community. I’m looking forward to more events next year!
DIGITAL COLLECTIONS
Digital Circulation by Format
Digital Circulation by
Format: 2025 Digital Circulation: 2021-2025
Digital Circulation
27% increase in digital circulation since 2021
NEW Resource Highlight: Teen Health & Wellness
In January 2025, the Barrie Public Library expanded its Digital Library with the addition of Teen Health & Wellness — a critically acclaimed, award-winning resource designed specifically for middle and high school students.
Teen Health & Wellness offers nonjudgmental, straightforward guidance on topics such as mental health, nutrition, drugs and alcohol, bullying, suicide prevention, and more.
All content is created with teens’ unique perspectives and concerns in mind, presented in a sensitive, respectful, and age-appropriate way that makes complex issues easier to understand and navigate.
The resource also features real-life stories, peer advice, and videos created by teens themselves, fostering connection and helping young people feel seen, supported, and empowered to make informed decisions.
Top Digital Titles of 2025
CloudLibrary Audiobooks
CloudLibrary eBooks
Thanks so much. I wouldn’t have survived the last few years without ebooks. Love the convenience of getting and returning books 24/7 and being able to read on all my devices. Keep up the good work!
PROGRAMMING AND LEARNING
Our team delivered the highest number of programs in the Library’s history last year – a testament to both growing demand and thoughtful planning. From holiday specials to hobby meetups and early literacy skill-building, we offered engaging experiences for all ages and interests. In 2025, we heard a strong desire for more opportunities to connect around shared interests and to step away from screens to create together. In response, we introduced programs like Strings Attached, a welcoming space for participants to learn crochet in a social setting. Community enthusiasm for connection was also evident in the remarkable turnout for our Swaps – including the Puzzle & Game Swap, Houseplant Swap, and Craft Supply Swap – which brought people together to share resources, skills, and conversation. By listening and adapting, we continue to create programs that foster creativity, connection, and lifelong learning.
Program and Outreach Attendance: 2020-2025
Summer Reading Club
Our Summer Reading Club was as hot as summer 2025! More than 2,300 children and teens registered, collectively reading an impressive 51,462 books throughout July and August.
A full schedule of daily programs and special events kept families engaged all summer long – from Mario Parties and painting workshops to interactive visits from Barrie Fire, Science North, and Ontario Parks. Our Outreach team also brought the excitement beyond our walls, delivering library experiences across the city and creating opportunities for families to read, learn, and connect together.
Summer Reading Club continues to inspire a love of reading while making the library a cornerstone of summer fun in our community.
91% of SRC participants reported sustained or improved confidence in reading
Reading with Norbert Moana Celebration J’s Magic
Happy Houseplant Swap attendee
Two Outstanding Author Talks Bookend the Year
The Barrie Public Library was proud to host two exceptional author events in 2025, welcoming readers for inspiring evenings of conversation and connection.
In June, internationally acclaimed Canadian author Nita Prose joined us at the Georgian Theatre to discuss her latest novel, The Maid’s Secret. More than 180 attendees enjoyed a live reading followed by a thoughtful conversation with CEO Lauren Jessop about Prose’s writing process, character development, and journey from editor to bestselling author. A highlight of the evening was her reflection on the collaborative nature of reading: “That is the whole point of a book – I start, and you finish. I paint a few brush strokes and you fill in the rest.”
In November, Canadian curling legend and bestselling author Jennifer Jones visited to celebrate her memoir, Rock Star: My Life On and Off The Ice. Through laughter and candid storytelling, she shared insights into her Olympic career and life beyond competitive curling.
These events reflect the Library’s commitment to bringing inspiring voices and memorable literary experiences to our community.
Our Crumbling Foundation Wins Simcoe Reads 2025
Simcoe Reads marked its sixth anniversary this year – an annual, cover-to-cover competition inspired by Canada Reads and presented by Simcoe County libraries. Eight libraries participated, representing Barrie, Bradford West Gwillimbury, Essa, Innisfil, Midland, New Tecumseth, Ramara Township, and Severn Township.
After encouraging communities to read the shortlisted titles throughout the summer and early fall, the Grand Finale was held during Ontario Public Library Week at the Gibson Centre for Community, Arts and Culture in Alliston. A packed house watched as the champions went head-to-head in a lively debate, culminating in an audience vote to crown the winner.
We were incredibly proud of our champion, Brett Glover, who represented BPL in defending Our Crumbling Foundation by Gregor Craigie – a thought-provoking exploration of 37 potential solutions to the housing crisis – which was selected as the winner of Simcoe Reads 2025.
Nita Prose in conversation with CEO Lauren Jessop
Jennifer Jones listens to a question from the audience
Simcoe Reads Champions with their selected titles
New Library Kiosk Supports Community Well-Being
In December, we were proud to launch a new partnership with Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) – a new selfserve Library Kiosk and Book Nook, expanding free access to books for hospital staff, volunteers, patients, families, and visitors. The kiosk provides a quick and convenient way to browse, borrow, and return popular titles for all ages.
As library memberships are free for anyone who works in Barrie, all RVH staff and volunteers are eligible for a free library card, regardless of where they live.
Reading can offer calm, distraction, and hope during challenging moments. By bringing a library kiosk into the hospital, we are supporting patients, families, staff, and volunteers with easy access to stories, information, and comfort when they need it most. In addition to the kiosk, a free Book Nook – a take-a-book/leave-a-book shelf inspired by a Little Free Library – is available to everyone, no library card required. This ensures those who are from out of town and not eligible for a card can still access reading materials.
Together, these services enhance the hospital experience and support wellness in our community through a thoughtfully curated collection for those spending time at RVH. This Library–Hospital partnership offers a different kind of care: the gift of reading, delivered in accessible and meaningful ways. Both organizations are proud to collaborate on this initiative, strengthening community connection and expanding access to reading for everyone who works in, visits, or receives care at the hospital.
We are proud to partner with the Barrie Public Library on an initiative that reflects the strength of our community and the power of collaboration. This kiosk demonstrates how an innovative idea can contribute to an exceptional patient experience for everyone who walks through our doors.
~ Gail Hunt, President and Chief Executive Officer, Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre.
The kiosk was revealed at a ribbon-cutting in December
RVH President and CEO Gail Hunt borrows the first book
A member of Team RVH browsing the kiosk
21st Barrie Dragon Boat Festival Raises $100,000 for Local Charities
BPL’s team Dragon Tales won the Silver Division ��
The 21st Annual Barrie Dragon Boat Festival, proudly sponsored by Tim Hortons, was the place to be on August 16. Forty teams gathered along Barrie’s waterfront, paddling in support of their charities of choice – including the Barrie Public Library’s Future Branches Campaign. The day was filled with team spirit, warm summer weather, and heartfelt celebrations of community impact.
Together, teams raised an incredible $100,000 for charities across Barrie and the surrounding area, supporting causes that uplift and strengthen our community. The Top Fundraising Award went to Bartimaeus SurvivOARS for the third consecutive year, raising $26,010 for Easter Seals. Close behind, first-time participants Team Faye raised $25,170 for the ALS Society – an outstanding debut effort.
We extend our sincere thanks to our presenting sponsor, Tim Hortons, along with our supporting sponsors, vendors, suppliers, and community partners who made this event possible. With the support of local Tim Hortons owners, the festival season also featured free Learn to Paddle sessions open to the community and Timbit Reader Days hosted in restaurants across the city – extending the celebration well beyond race day.
The Barrie Dragon Boat Festival relies on the dedication of its volunteers and support staff to ensure a seamless event. We are deeply grateful to our volunteer team and organizing committee, who invested countless hours planning and delivering every detail, from set-up to tear-down.
More than a race, this festival reflects the Library’s vision of community coming together – uniting diverse groups, strengthening local ties, fostering belonging, and championing civic engagement. It is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we paddle in the same direction.
Aerial view of the eight race boats and dock
TECHNOLOGY USE
Hours of Computer Use by Location
Wireless Sessions: 2025
increase in pages printed since 2021
Building Community Through Creativity
Our Creative Spaces continue to grow in popularity, welcoming hundreds of visitors each week to explore, experiment, and create. In 2025, we expanded our offerings with new tools and technologies, including a spiral binding machine, paper cutter, and laminator — resources that support small businesses and entrepreneurs in prototyping ideas, producing branded materials for events, and collaborating with others.
The spaces are also fostering meaningful social connection. Our weekly Craft & Connect program invites new parents to create while their babies enjoy engaging sensory activities. What can often be an isolating stage of life becomes an opportunity for conversation, creativity, and community. Many participants have formed lasting friendships, continuing to meet beyond the library’s walls — a powerful reflection of how our Creative Spaces bring people together.
Craft and Connect Our Downtown Creative Spaces in its bright new spot
Pages Printed: 2021-2025 Hours
REFERENCE TRENDS
Reference transactions are the daily interactions between library staff and community members seeking help to find information. These questions range from locating books and articles to researching local history, navigating government services, applying for jobs, or learning new digital skills.
Each interaction reflects personalized, expert support. In an age of information overload and misinformation, library staff help patrons identify credible sources, refine their searches, and build confidence in their research.
Reference services highlight one of the library’s greatest benefits: access not only to information, but to knowledgeable professionals who guide, empower, and support lifelong learning.
Reference Question Trends: 2021-2025
EXCELLENCE! After 58 years this is the most welcoming, efficient, joyful library I’ve been to. Special thanks to the staff for kindness and assistance every time. Karen is exceptionally helpful and shared her knowledge and educated me. Thank you ALL.
Reference Questions by Type: 2025
Reference: Questions or transactions made in-person, by phone, by mail, by email, or the website.
Reader’s Advisory: Providing recommendations, guidance, or help selecting reading materials based on user interests. Technology Support: Providing information or help with technology, software, or social media.
Bright Futures Grant Helps Fund Tech Literacy Programs
The Barrie Public Library was once again successful in securing a Bright Futures grant through the City of Barrie. In 2025, $70,000 in funding supported the purchase of new technology and equipment to enhance STEM programming for students in Grades 6 to 8, including 12 laptops and LEGO Science Kits that will support hands-on learning in future educational programs.
Bright Futures is a federal grant administered through municipalities that supports sustainable community programs for youth aged 6–26, with a focus on fostering community engagement and supporting success at school. This funding enabled the Library to invest in technology that would otherwise have been beyond our budget, expanding our capacity to deliver engaging, skills-focused learning opportunities for young people in our community.
Book Sales Support Creative Spaces
This marked our third year hosting volunteer-run book sales – and once again, our community showed up in full force. Through our three-day Spring Book Sale and one-day Fall Book Sale, we raised $6,500 to support new technology in our Creative Spaces.
Across both events, hundreds of visitors browsed a wide variety of gently used books and media. The sales featured a curated mix of materials recently withdrawn from the library’s collection, alongside generous community donations. Shoppers explored adult fiction and non-fiction, children’s books, movies, video games, and CDs — all affordably priced between $0.50 and $5.00.
$4,200 raised at the BIG Spring Book Sale
These sales not only give materials a second life, but also directly reinvest in innovative tools and technologies that enhance creative opportunities for our community.
Tech Titans Fall Session
AWARENESS AND ENGAGEMENT
Our social media channels and eNewsletters played an important role in driving awareness and engagement throughout the year. By sharing timely updates, program highlights, and new services, we kept the library top of mind and encouraged increased usage of library services.
We also embraced popular video trends, creatively adapting them to the library world to showcase our spaces, staff, and collections in ways that feel relevant and fun. Together, these efforts strengthened community connection and reinforced BPL as a vibrant and modern destination.
264,020 views 3,962 interactions
Wow. I had no idea. Very cool. Time to get signed up again. ~ Facebook comment on a post about our Library of Things
eNewsletter Trends: 2021-2025
119,869 views
1,247 interactions 27d 20h 42m 14s watch time
40,330 views
2,092 interactions 69h 36m 30s total play time
growth in monthly eNewsletter subscribers since 2024
Social Media Followers: 2021-2025
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
BPL wins
prestigious $10,000
Minister’s Award for Innovation
John Cotton Dana Award
The Barrie Public Library was honoured to receive a prestigious Minister’s Award for Innovation for our Mobile Device Project — an initiative that leveraged technology to enhance customer service and modernize internal communications. Presented by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, this award recognizes innovative approaches that demonstrate meaningful community impact and deliver ongoing value to public libraries.
In 2022, we refreshed our customer experience strategy by redesigning our service model — reducing the size of traditional service desks and empowering staff to rove throughout our spaces. To support this shift, staff needed seamless communication tools and mobile access to our catalogue and integrated library system (ILS), whether assisting patrons in-branch or attending outreach events in the community.
Accepting our Minister’s Award for Innovation
Equipping frontline staff with mobile devices and headsets transformed how we deliver service. Staff can now register new members, check out materials, and assist with accounts on the spot — meeting patrons where they are and eliminating barriers to access. The Mobile Device Project also strengthened internal connectivity, enabling staff working remotely, across branches, and at community events to communicate efficiently and collaboratively.
This innovation has not only enhanced the patron experience, but also created a more agile, responsive, and connected organization.
Advocacy in Action: Excellence in Children’s or Teen Services
Library Associate Audrey Kennington was honoured to receive the Ontario Public Library Association (OPLA) Advocacy in Action Award for Excellence in Children’s or Teen Services.
Audrey was recognized as a passionate advocate both within the library and in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Identifying a gap in youth programming, she took initiative to create meaningful change. Audrey connected with Fierté Simcoe Pride to establish a collaborative partnership focused on building a safe, welcoming space grounded in thoughtful, original, and responsive programming.
In just two years, what began as a grassroots pilot has grown into a thriving monthly program — Queer Craft Circle — with consistently strong attendance and a growing community of participants.
Congratulations to Audrey, whose leadership and advocacy are making a lasting impact.
I love that our library, and all libraries, are some the last truly public spaces. We all pay a little to get A LOT and I can’t imagine my sons childhood without story times and drop in programs. As a young mom, having a safe place to go when I was burned out was truly life saving. Plus when saving for a house it felt like we couldn’t afford anything but could rely on the library for park passes. It made our summer.
Audrey accepting her Advocacy in Action Award
