Key Messages, September 2025

Key Messages Update
Type
Key Messages

Organizational Excellence

  • Strategic Planning Committee Updates: The Board received an information report outlining the Committee’s research to date and its phased consultation plan. The first phase will focus on youth engagement and will connect with the Library’s 30th anniversary celebrations this Fall.
  • L.E. Shore Facility Washroom Renovation Update Received: Manager Pesek reported on the washroom renovation project, with a projected completion between mid- to late November. Significant progress has been made in balancing innovative and accessible design with practical considerations such as fixture selection, grant applications, and coordination with contractors. Creativity was required to ensure that the new design improves accessibility while also preserving the Library’s only functional storage space.
  • Building Condition Assessment Reports in Progress: Manager Pesek provided an update on the ongoing Building Condition Assessments for both the L.E. Shore Memorial Library & Gallery and the Craigleith Heritage Depot, which are scheduled for completion later this year. These assessments will offer valuable guidance for long-term capital planning and infrastructure projects, while also aligning with the Town’s Asset Management Plan.
  • Town Emergency Response Plan Reviewed: Fire Chief Conn and CEMC Coordinator & Administrative Assistant Diana Livingstone presented an overview of the Town’s Emergency Response Plan, outlining the Library’s role as a liaison for public messaging and community feedback during emergencies. Chief Conn noted the Library would likely be engaged a day or two after an event begins. Manager Pesek added that, as the designated emergency media centre, the Library is a priority for a backup generator, though other municipal facilities will be addressed first; installation is anticipated in 2026 or 2027, pending Council budget approval.
  • Q2 Report Received: The Board received the Q2 2025 Quarterly Report, which provides a detailed update on how the Library is advancing its strategic priorities and meeting annual goals. This quarter’s report featured a spotlight on IDEA (Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) and shared community feedback recognizing the Library as a safe and welcoming space for all. It also highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Town, consistently strong program participation and collection use, and a notable increase in overall media coverage. The full report is available on the Library’s website and in accessible formats upon request.
  • Library/Town Collaboration: Director Gibbons’ follow-up staff report on the Multi-Use Recreation Feasibility Assessment (MURFA) is scheduled for Committee of the Whole on October 6, 2025, in consultation with the Library CEO. The CEO also participated in a hybrid workshop for the Youth Climate Action Fund, where project committee members connected with successful grant recipients and received updates on their initiatives. 

Community Hubs

  • L.E. Shore Space Utilization Study Moving Forward: CEO Murley shared that the contract is nearing finalization, with the Proponent’s proposal coming in under budget. The Board will be notified once the partnership is officially confirmed.

Empowering Services