Overview

A strong library system is the cornerstone of a strong community. It facilitates equity of access to information and contributes to education, literacy and life-long learning in Ontario communities.

Municipal by-laws create Ontario's public libraries and public library boards govern them.

The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming is responsible for:

Ontario Public Library Service Awards

Learn about the awards that recognize creative library service ideas, including nominees and past winners.

Public library statistics

Read about Ontario public library statistics collected from the past several years.

Carnegie libraries

Browse a list of Carnegie Libraries which are currently in use, repurposed or demolished.

Resources for public libraries

Find associations, organizations and other resources for public libraries in Ontario.

Legislation

Learn about the provincial and federal rules that affect public libraries in Ontario.

Facts

  • In 2024, Ontario public libraries served the public through 1,285 library service points (main libraries, library branches, deposit stations and bookmobile stops) and circulated over 122 million physical and electronic items. Public libraries received almost 59 million in-person visits, almost 100 million electronic visits and delivered thousands of programs including:
    • 62,128 early literacy and early learning programs with 1.1 million attendees
    • 7,592 programs for immigrants and new Canadians with 99,670 attendees
    • 15,704 maker space, digital media and self-publishing programs with 119,952 attendees
    • 1,288 career, job help and skills programs with 13,801 attendees
  • Over 95% of Ontarians live in communities served by a public library.
  • Ontario’s first free public libraries were established in Toronto and Guelph in 1883. Between 1903 and 1922, 111 Ontario libraries were constructed with more than $2.5 million in funding from American businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.
  • Over 4.4 million Ontarians—27% of the population—hold a public library card.
  • Ontario libraries have 28 million print volumes available to borrow. That’s equivalent to 1.7 books for every Ontarian. They also have 22.9 million e-resources including e-books, e-audiobooks and electronic periodicals. Every library branch in the province provides access to electronic information and resources through the internet.

List of public libraries

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  20. T

  21. U

  22. V

  23. W