Library usage, programs continue to grow in County of Brant

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

The County of Brant Public Library is continuing to see steady growth across its services, with increased membership, program participation and overall usage highlighted in its 2025 annual report presented to council April 28.

“Every time I come I’ve brought numbers that show a steady upward trend to library statistics,” said library board chair Fred Gladding.

According to the report, the library recorded 32,070 registered members in 2025, with approximately 22,000 considered active - defined as cardholders who have used their membership within the past two years.

Library use remained strong across several key areas. The system logged 128,910 in-person visits and saw 378,144 items borrowed over the year, while staff responded to more than 43,000 reference and research questions from patrons. Internet usage at branches also rose by more than nine per cent. Programming continues to be a major driver of engagement.

“One of the big features of the library is the programming,” said Gladding. “Those programs also include outreach programs.”

In 2025, the library delivered 1,859 programs for both adults and children, attracting more than 30,650 attendees. Outreach efforts included 424 visits to local schools to promote early literacy.

Highlights from 2025 included the 20th anniversary of the One Book, One Brant community reading program, which featured a visit from author Emma Donoghue, as well as new initiatives such as the Paws to Read program and a literary-themed gala, Winter at Pemberley.

The library also expanded community-focused initiatives, including the introduction of free menstrual products at all branches and the launch of wellness drop-in sessions in partnership with the Sexual Assault Centre of Brant.

Council also heard that participation in the English Conversation Circle program increased significantly, with attendance jumping 116 per cent year over year.

From a financial perspective, the County of Brant contributed approximately $2.8 million to library operations in 2025, representing roughly 96.7 per cent of the library’s operating budget. Additional revenue included about $125,000 in grants. 

Coun. John Peirce asked staff to clarify how active members are defined and inquired about financial breakdowns during the presentation.

Beyond usage and finances, Gladding emphasized the broader value the library brings to the community, noting patrons collectively saved more than $7.2 million by using library resources — an average value of $19.23 per borrowed item.

The library was also recognized provincially in 2025, receiving the Angus Mowat Award for Service Excellence for its programming for seniors.

In his message included in the report, Gladding said the library continues to play a vital role in fostering lifelong learning and community connection.