Stratford Public Library reports growth in memberships, programs and community impact

With more than 1,500 new library cards activated in 2025, Stratford Public Library continues to see growth in membership, programming and community use.

The library's 2025 annual report highlights increased program attendance, expanded collections, new community partnerships and continued growth in services for residents of all ages.

“The 2025 Annual Report demonstrates how busy and dynamic our library is every day,” said Krista Robinson, CEO of the library. “Our library is an essential community gathering space, and a trusted source of connection, support and opportunity.”

Among the library's initiatives in 2025 were new community-focused programs, the TD Summer Reading Club, expanded multilingual children's materials through the LOTE4Kids database, additions to the Library of Things collection including Yoto players and carbon dioxide and radon detector kits, and the launch of the Poet Laureate program in partnership with Destination Stratford.

According to the report, the library recorded more than 151,000 in-person visits, circulated more than 400,000 items and delivered more than 900 programs attended by over 28,000 people.

The library also released results from the Valuing Ontario Libraries Toolkit (VOLT) survey, which measures the social and economic value public libraries provide to their communities.

The survey found that for every municipal dollar invested in Stratford Public Library, the community receives an estimated social return of $5.85. The library's annual economic impact was estimated at more than $18 million, or approximately $523 per resident.

“These findings reinforce what our community already knows – the library plays a vital role in the lives of Stratford residents,” said Robinson. “Whether someone is attending programs, accessing technology, borrowing materials, finding a welcoming space or discovering community connections, the value of the library extends far beyond its walls.”

The annual report also highlights the library's continued advocacy for additional space and notes its support for the City of Stratford's recent approval of $15 million toward the development of a new community facility in partnership with the YMCA of Three Rivers.

Robinson said the project would create a shared community space at the Grand Trunk site and expand opportunities for both organizations.

The library is also preparing for a busy summer season, with programs and events for all ages, including the return of popular offerings such as Wonder Passes.

“Summer's going to be jam packed with all sorts of fun events and programs,” said Robinson. “One thing I'm very excited about is the community kazoo music event that will be happening every week. We're also bringing back our happy hour event. We have our first one on June 19, we are also excited about some fundraising initiatives that we've started for 2026, as well as our wonder passes for you to go explore the community.”

Robinson said the Wonder Passes provide children with free access to attractions across the region, including the London Children's Museum, Gallery Stratford, the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, Lions Pool and Stratford Warriors games.

“I am so thankful for our staff and the hard work they do, and for the support of our community,” said Robinson. “I encourage everyone to read this report and to stay connected with us through regular visits to the library and by following us on social media or our e-newsletter.”

The library's 2025 annual report is available at www.splibrary.ca.