Strategic Plan

At Pickering Public Library, we are excited to embark on a new chapter with our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. Our vision is to inspire a thriving community where everyone can explore ideas, connect with others, and embrace new possibilities. This plan will guide us as we continue to serve as a vibrant hub of learning, connection, and innovation in a rapidly changing world.

 

Our Core Values

Belonging: Creating inclusive, safe, and equitable spaces for all.

Innovation: Adopting flexible approaches to foster positive change.

Curiosity: Encouraging exploration and understanding.

Integrity: Upholding accountability and democratic values.

 

Our Commitment

We are dedicated to continuous improvement and community engagement, sharing annual updates on our progress. This ensures transparency and accountability as we strive to meet the needs and aspirations of our diverse community.

Join us on this exciting journey as we work together to make Pickering Public Library a beacon of knowledge, connection, and innovation.

 

Download Our Strategic Plan here

 

What's Next?

As we implement this Strategic Plan, we are committed to keeping the community informed every step of the way. Each year, we will provide updates on our progress, highlighting our achievements, challenges, and future steps. These updates will be shared through our website, community newsletters, and public forums, ensuring transparency and accountability.

We understand that a strategic plan is a living document, shaped by the input and engagement of our community. That's why we invite you to join us on this journey. Your feedback, ideas, and participation are invaluable as we continue to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of Pickering's vibrant and diverse community.

Thank you for celebrating with us!

At the end of May, a special celebration was held to mark the launch of the new Strategic Plan. We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to gather with community members to recognize and celebrate their contributions to the Library's ambitious vision.

At the celebration, Pickering residents had the chance to connect with the Library's leadership team, learning firsthand about the goals and priorities outlined in the new Strategic Plan. Community members got to preview the final Strategic Plan - with the full community edition to be shared in the fall. The event also featured activities that highlighted how each priority aims to better serve the community. 

 

See How Our Strategic Plan is Coming to Life! 

 

Priority 1 - The Best Place for Everyone to Learn 

We’re making it easier for everyone in Pickering to learn, explore, and grow. Here’s how we’re bringing this priority to life.

 

  • We Make it Easy to Find Your Next Reads ~ Collections that reflect our community 
    • Using data to ensure our shelves reflect YOU.
    • Exploring DEI data metrics in 2026, to measure and strengthen collection.
    • Simplified collections for easier browsing.
    • World Languages Collection expanded with Farsi titles and 100+ new books in 2025.
    • A new catalogue page allows you to browse by language with a single click.

  • Leaders in Early Literacy ~ Building readers from the very beginning 
    • Our new Baby's First Books Collection supports early literacy through four themes:
      • Bold and Bright → High-contrast books for early vision
      • Touch and Feel → Sensory books for vocabulary and coordination
      • Look at Me → Baby faces to build emotional connection
      • Read with Me → Interactive books for bonding and brain growth
    • 400+ books checked out from “Grab and Go” Bags during the Children’s space renovation.
    • Upcoming interactive features in the new children’s space will spark creativity and STEM learning.

  • We offer access to technology and learning opportunities to ensure everyone has the tools to thrive in a digital world ~ Building Digital Confidence and Creativity
    • The Maker Space renovation has opened up a new, visible creative zone for everyone to explore.
    • We’re expanding loanable technology based on community feedback — giving everyone access to tools for learning, creating, and connecting.
    • New workshops and learning opportunities help build digital skills across all ages.

  • Exploring Local History Together ~ Inclusive Stories of Pickering’s Past 
    • Planning is underway for new Local History services and spaces that celebrate our city’s diverse stories.
    • We’re committed to offering inclusive and meaningful learning experiences that connect people to Pickering’s past and to one another.
    • Stay tuned for exciting updates as we design these experiences with the community in mind.

 

Priority 2 - Committed to Care, Inclusion, and Belonging 

We’re listening to our community, and building spaces where everyone belongs.

 

  • Welcoming, Inclusive, and Accessible Spaces ~ Designing spaces where everyone feels at home. 
    • A multi-faith prayer room is being developed to offer a permanent, inclusive space for reflection and prayer.
    • We’re preparing to open our newest branch at the Dorsay Heritage Community Centre, designed as a vibrant, welcoming hub that the community can be proud of.
    • Central Library washroom renovations are underway, transforming outdated facilities into bright, modern, accessible spaces for all visitors.


  • Truth, Reconciliation and Indigenous Partnerships ~ Learning from and with Indigenous communities. 
    • We’ve created a new Indigenous-focused role, the Indigenous Relations Outreach Associate, to guide the Library’s efforts in reconciliation and to build authentic community relationships.
    • This role will help the Library facilitate learning, celebration, and collaboration with local Indigenous communities.


  • Meeting People Where They Are ~ Connecting beyond our walls. 
    • From October 2024 to July 2025, Ovee connected with 3,663 residents across 196 local community stops.
    • Outreach staff made 14 visits to local retirement residences, engaging with 143 seniors and registering 20+ new library cards.
    • Staff hosted a Cyber and Phone Security Workshop for older adults, 13 participants gained confidence spotting scams.
    • Outreach staff facilitated creative art sessions at senior residences, using dexterity-friendly techniques to support expression and connection.

 

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