Stratford Public Library Board

The Stratford Public Library has deep roots in the community. Before the public library was formally established in 1897, Stratford residents accessed books and learning through the Stratford Mechanics' Institute, incorporated in 1853 to provide educational resources and a shared library for its members.

As provincial legislation evolved, Ontario established formal public library systems under the Public Libraries Act, creating library boards responsible for overseeing and guiding public library services.

Today, the Stratford Public Library Board helps ensure the library remains a vibrant hub for learning, discovery, and community connection. From books and digital resources to programs, events, and welcoming spaces for residents of all ages, the Board works to support a library that reflects the needs and interests of the Stratford community.

Mission

We are an equitable, safe, and welcoming community where everyone can explore, learn, create, connect, and be inspired.

Vision

We are a place where hope and wonder fly. We envision a library which connects people; inspires learning, literacy, and curiosity; and sparks change for a better community.

The mandate of the Library Board is:

• To provide, in co-operation with other boards, a comprehensive and efficient public library service that reflects the community's unique needs;
• To operate one or more libraries and ensure that they are conducted in accordance with this Act and the regulations;
• To operate special services in connection with a library as it considers necessary;
• To fix the times and places for board meetings and the mode of calling and conducting them, and ensure that full and correct minutes are kept;
• To make an annual report to the Minister and make any other reports or provide any other information required by this Act and the regulations or requested by the Minister from time to time;
• To make provision for insuring the board's real and personal property;
• To take proper security for the treasurer; and
• To appoint such committees as it considers expedient.

Becoming a Board Member

The Stratford Public Library Board has nine members who serve a four-year term concurrent with Stratford City Council. The Board is composed of:

• 1 City Council Representative
• 8 Citizens-at-large appointed by Council

The City Council representative is chosen by Council when it takes office after a municipal election. Library Board openings for Citizens-at-large are advertised on social media and in the local newspaper following each municipal election. Any interested citizen who meets the criteria may apply.

If openings occur on the Library Board during its term of office, new appointees are selected in the manner described above. Application forms can be found on the Advisory Committee page.

Time served on the Library Board is limited to two full consecutive terms, i.e. eight years, plus one partial term for board members appointed mid-term.