About the Guelph Public Library
Annual reports
Every year, we produce our annual report to reflect back on what we achieved for the year. Learn about how many patrons we serve, popular programs and services, and stories that reflect empowerment in our community.
We keep the three most current annual reports on our website. If you’re looking for a year beyond what’s listed, please reach out to askus@guelphpl.ca, opens a new window.
From Barriers to Bridges: our Strategic Plan
The Library’s 2025-2028 strategic plan, From Barriers to Bridges, sets the tone for the next four years.
Vision: Expect Empowerment
Empowerment is defined as “the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights.” This is what the Library strives to offer to the community—space, resources, and support to grow, overcome barriers, and craft lives of our own choosing. Our aspirational goal is that the community, staff, and partners have the expectation of empowerment every time they interact with us.
Mission
The library offers inclusive, sustainable spaces, and opportunities for people to engage their curiosity and create community.
Values
Trust
We foster trust by acting with integrity, holding ourselves and others accountable, and consistently delivering compassion in our services.
Belonging
We deepen belonging by offering accessible, diverse services and space that promotes the individual and collective wellness of community members.
Curiosity
We nurture curiosity and creativity; we model lifelong learning and literacy.
Resiliency
We cultivate resilience by embracing change as an opportunity to grow and transform, adapting to the evolving needs of our community. We create an environment where everyone feels empowered to be vulnerable and show up authentically, knowing they are part of a community that cares.
Customer service pledge
The Guelph Public Library Board and staff are dedicated to providing:
- Welcoming, courteous, and efficient service
- Balanced and diverse collections that enrich, educate, and entertain
- Community gathering places that celebrate culture and local history
- Accurate and convenient information services
We define excellent customer service as:
- Respecting our customers, partners and peers
- Engaging in direct and prompt communications
- Always smiling and saying thank you