​Bruce County Public Library saw year of strong community connection in 2025

The Bruce County Public Library is reflecting on 2025 with the release of its annual report, highlighting a year of strong community connection and expanded services across the library system.

The annual report is available on-line at: library.brucecounty.on.ca/about-us/annualreport.

The report opens with a letter from library board chairman Mark Goetz, looking back on a year that saw more than 2,100 programs and nearly 22,000 participants across the system.

In January, the library launched a brand-new website, creating more accessible and user-friendly experiences for patrons. The redesigned site makes it easier to search the catalogue, register for programs and access digital resources, strengthening how patrons connect with library services.

“Our annual report reflects another year of growth and community," said Goetz. "As we look ahead, we remain committed to creating welcoming spaces and expanding access to resources.”

Throughout the year, the library strengthened community connections through inclusive and engaging programming. Highlights included:
 

• A Black History Month celebration, featuring a screening of "Patty vs. Patty," along with a virtual question-and-answer period and Jamaican patty tasting
• Welcoming audiences to “Sweet Talk” with cast members from "The Great Canadian Baking Show"
• Hosting a powerful Truth and Reconciliation event with Trish Nadjiwon Meekins, exploring Saugeen Ojibway Nation Treaties

Over the summer, programming continued to thrive, with 784 children reading more than 49,000 minutes, and more than 600 patrons attending weekly programs.

The library participated in community events, such as the Afro Caribbean Awards, Light Up the Holidays at the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre, and Healthy Aging Wellness Day in Sauble Beach. The Bookmobile attended numerous events, including Canada Day in Walkerton, Comic Con in Southampton, the Saugeen First Nation Pow Wow, and the Neyaashiinigmiing Traditional Pow Wow.

The report also discusses continued investment in library branches and collections. Successful branch refreshes in Kincardine and Tara helped create more welcoming environments. Expansion of early literacy supports was possible with the introduction of de-codable books, and access to technology grew with the addition of Launchpads.

Thanks to generous donations, there were installation of three permanent 3D printers in the Wiarton, Southampton, and Port Elgin branches, along with six new Cricut machines across the county.

The library's By-the-Numbers infographic shows another year of growth, including more than 25,900 cardholders, 224,000 visits, and more than 336,000 items borrowed. It was an exciting and impactful year as the library continues to serve as a trusted community connector, providing resources and welcoming spaces for all.