Bruce County Public Library (BCPL) is reflecting on 2025 with the release of its Annual Report, highlighting a year of strong community connection and expanded services across the Library system. The BCPL 2025 Annual Report is available online at: library.brucecounty.on.ca/about-us/annualreport.The report opens with a letter from Library Board Chair Mark Goetz, looking back on a year that saw more than 2,100 programs and nearly 22,000 participants across the system.
In January, BCPL launched a brand-new website, creating more accessible and user-friendly experiences for patrons. The redesigned site makes it easier to search the catalogue, register for programs and access digital resources, strengthening how patrons connect with BCPL services.
“Our annual report reflects another year of growth and community. As we look ahead, we remain committed to creating welcoming spaces and expanding access to resources,” said Board Chair Goetz.
Throughout the year, BCPL strengthened community connections through inclusive and engaging programming. Highlights included:
- A Black History Month celebration featuring a screening of Patty vs. Patty, along with a virtual Q&A and Jamaican patty tasting.
- Welcoming audiences to “Sweet Talk” with cast members from The Great Canadian Baking Show.
- Hosting a powerful Truth and Reconciliation event with Trish Nadjiwon Meekins, exploring Saugeen Ojibway Nation Treaties.
Over the summer, programming continued to thrive, with 784 children reading more than 49,000 minutes and over 600 patrons attending weekly programs.
BCPL participated in community events such as the Afro-Caribbean Awards, Light Up the Holidays at the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre, and Healthy Aging Wellness Day in Sauble Beach. The Bookmobile attended events including Canada Day in Walkerton, Comic Con in Southampton, the Saugeen First Nation Pow Wow, and the Neyaashiinigmiing Traditional Pow Wow.
The report also discusses continued investment in Branches and collections. Successful branch refreshes in Kincardine and Tara helped create more welcoming environments. Expansion of early literacy supports was possible with the introduction of decodable books, and access to technology grew with the addition of Launchpads. Thanks to generous donations, there was installation of three permanent 3D printers in the Wiarton, Southampton, and Port Elgin Branches, along with six new Cricut machines across the County.
BCPL’s By-the-Numbers infographic shows another year of growth, including more than 25,900 cardholders, 224,000 visits, and over 336,000 items borrowed. It was an exciting and impactful year as BCPL continues to serve as a trusted community connector, providing resources and welcoming spaces for all.
About Bruce County Public Library:
Bruce County Public Library is committed to its role as a trusted community connector, digital community facilitator and community sharing place. Consisting of 17 Branches and a Bookmobile BCPL provides access to information, resources and programs throughout Bruce County.
