I hope you are taking in some of the amazing sessions that have been planned, and making time to network,

make new and renew old acquaintances. Congratulations to the winners of the OPLA awards. We are excited to have such worth recipients again this year.

Council has been very busy working on your behalf to advance the division. Vice-President/President-Elect Bessie Sullivan has worked closely with OLA Executive Director Shelagh Paterson to develop the block membership project. It will be available later this year for the 613 area code members at renewal time. Paul Trumphour and OLA staff member Brian Pudden have worked tirelessly to make our website even more interesting and useful to you. Please don’t hesitate to send content to the President for inclusion on the OPLA page. OPLA has engaged Counting Opinions to assist with the Child and Youth Services in Ontario Benchmark and Statistical Report to be conducted this year. We have also been developing a networking event for our members for 2009. More details on this to follow later.

Please join us for the OPLA Annual General Meeting on Friday at 5:15.

Dates to remember for 2009 include: the OPLA event at Book Expo in June presented by members of the Reader’s Advisory Committee; the submission deadline date for Kickstart to Participation is August 31; RA in a Day is October 23.

I have enjoyed the opportunity to be President of OPLA this past year. Thank you for your support.

WELCOME TO SUPER CONFERENCE!!

For and about members of the ONTARIO PUBLIC LIBRARY ASSOCIATION

HoOPLAWinter 2009 ISSN 1192 5175 SUPER CONFERENCE EDITION

From the President’s PenCindy Weir

Cindy Weir, OPLA PresidentCEO/Chief Librarian

Orangeville Public LibraryTel: 519-941-0610 ext 222

cweir@orangeville.ca

ONTARIO PUBLIC LIBRARY ASSOCIATION

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WHAT’S NEW

On October 21, 2008, The Federation of Ontario Public Libraries was pleased to welcome

the Honourable Aileen Carroll, Minister of Culture and Minster Responsible for Seniors along with 22 other MPPs to its first-ever Queen’s Park MPP reception. Minister Carroll spoke eloquently about the value of public libraries and was accompanied by all her senior staff including her Deputy Minister, Assistant Deputy Minister, and Director of the Programs and Services Branch. The Federation is thankful to all who made the evening a success and sends special thanks to Linda Jeffrey, MPP of Brampton Springdale and Parliamentary Assistant

to the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration for sponsoring the event. Further details, photos and a copy of the two-page handout made available to all MPPs, can be found on the Federation website at www.fopl.ca.

Marzio Apolloni, Federation Board Chair and CEO of Bruce County Public Library, Hon. Aileen Carroll, Culture Minister, David Allen, Federation CEO, Lilita Stripnieks, CEO St. Catharines Public Library.

Hon. Aileen Carroll, Minister of Culture and Adele Kostiak, CEO Brampton Public Library

AROUND THE PROVINCE

FOPL Board of Directors Hosts its Very First Reception at Queen’s Park

Barbara Swyers, CEO; Lois Lemkay, Staff; Gail Demkiw, Staff; Robert Byrnes, Library Board Chair; Mayor Jim Walden; The Honourable Tony Clement, MP; Norm Miller, MPP; Joan Higgs, Trustee; Bill Demkiw, Past-Chair of the Friends; Dawn MacDonald, Volunteer Fundraiser.

Over 100 people attended the official opening on October 25, 2008. Everyone was excited

and overjoyed with the beautiful new library. Students from the MacTier Public School led by Lindsey Jordan sang “O Canada.” Environment Canada provided sunshine at 2 p.m. for the outside ribbon cutting. Speeches by the Honourable Tony Clement, MP; Norm Miller, MPP;Mayor Jim Walden; Gail Demkiw, Staff Member & MacTier Resident and Robert Byrnes, Library Board Chair were held inside the library. Refreshments served by

Mactier Public Library Opens!

the Friends of the MacTier Public Library were enjoyed by all.

The Township of Georgian Bay Public Library Board thanks Mayor Jim Walden, Council, Township Staff; all of our Donors, Library Staff, Volunteers and Friends of the MacTier Public Library who made this dream become a reality! Barbara Swyers, CEOTownship of Georgian Bay Public Library705-756-8851

Life of Pi by Yann Martel survived five weeks of voting to become the favoured book

in Newmarket Reads, a book event created by Newmarket Public Library and yorkregion.com to promote literacy and the joy of reading. Participants were invited to read six of the most talked about and acclaimed Canadian novels of the past 20 years, and then asked to vote for their favourite throughout October, Canadian Library Month. People voted via ballots at the library or online, and each week the book with the least number of votes was eliminated.

“Although the format was like a book Survivor there were no real losers,” said Neil Moore, Community Development Manager at York Region Media Group. “The books chosen displayed a wide range of writing and everyone who participated got a chance to discover, or revisit, some excellent books.”

Weekly prizes were given out including a Grand Prize of a month membership at Glenway Country Club and Chapters gift certificates.

Jennifer Leveridge, Community Development Manager905-953-5110 x4710

Life of Pi Top Choice in Newmarket Reads Book Event

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Haldimand Community Services General Manager Hugh Hanly look on as Anne Gallant and Pat MacDonald accept the award.

Georgina Public Libraries gave a new twist to the One Community/One Book concept

by focusing on Silverwing by Kenneth Oppel and running a seven month long program of family literacy events and activities, from bat box making, to kite making/flying, to bat hikes in the local provincial park and a photo contest. The programs were attended by more than 900 people. The grand finale was held November 14, with a visit from Ken Oppel who entertained 410 grade six students from across Georgina, and another 70 people at the evening public reading/reception. Parents told the author that his books had changed their children’s lives, by turning them on to reading! Now that’s a success story! Mary Baxter, Director of Library Services/CEO, Georgina Public Library905-476-7233 x101

On November 13, 2008, Haldimand County held its eighth annual Recognition Night, a salute to

all of the volunteers who make such a significant and positive contribution to the quality of life in the community. This year, the “Community Project Award” went to the Friends of the Dunnville Public Library (one of six Haldimand County library branches).

Over the years, a core group of six people – with able assistance from a dozen more – has organized fundraisers that have supported a number of library initiatives, from extra money for the collection to landscaping projects to the installation of wheelchair accessible entrance doors for the branch.

Fundraisers include the summer book sale, the March Break penny sale, a winter weekend booksale, a Christmas Elves shop and a yardsale. Profits from these events are being put aside to help fund a planned $600,000 library renovation and expansion project in 2011.

At the Recognition Night Ceremony, Friends President Pat MacDonald said: “Over the years we have developed a close relationship with the staff and without their help and advice we couldn’t be as successful as we are. This is a true team effort.”

Thank You For Being a Friend @ Haldimand

One Community/One Book Takes Wing at Georgina

Kenneth Oppel signs a copy of his book Silverwing.

Deb JacksonCEO, Haldimand County Librarydjackson@HaldimandCounty.on.ca

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Town crier Bruce Kruger speaks as MPP Norm Miller, Mayor Don Coates, BPL CEO Cathryn Rodney and Library Board Chair Bob Taylor cut the birthday cake at BPL’s Birthday Bash in the Park.

2008 has been a very busy year for the Bracebridge Public Library as we celebrated our Centennial with

a variety of events throughout the year. We began the year with contests in the local schools which produced fabulous bookmarks and posters to be used all year in publicity. In March, we launched the commissioned history of the Library, Local Library – Global Passport, written by Dr. J. Patrick Boyer. Dr. Boyer has very close personal connections to the Library and has written an entertaining and informative account.

In May, we held a Tribute to Andrew Carnegie – to whom we owe our original beautiful building, still in use as a public library after 100 years. June saw library supporters on a boat cruise aboard the Muskoka steamer, Wenonah II and July 6 was our Big Birthday Bash in Memorial Park – complete with a BBQ, musical entertainment and of course – lots of birthday cake.

An Antiques Appraisal event in August allowed experts to appraise treasured family heirlooms at the Library. “Booktoberfest” in October brought local and visiting authors to town to share their experiences of writing.

A genealogy presentation in November informed family tree researchers about all the resources available to them at the Bracebridge Public Library.

2008 Centennial of Bracebridge Library

Throughout the year we have been using the bookmarks and posters created by local students in our publicity and this fall we will be showing the winners of our video contest as well. Keep up with the news on our website www.bracebridge.library.on.ca

Ruth Holtz, Reference Librarian, Bracebridge Public Libraryholtzr@vianet.on.ca

Make Dreams Real” is the 2008–2009 theme for Rotary International, and Rotary Club

of Huntsville President Barbara White and her fellow Rotarians are doing just that at the Huntsville Public Library.

The Rotary Club is funding two projects at the library that will benefit young people in the community. The first will enrich the children’s collection and the second will benefit young adults.

The children’s project will contribute to the renewal and updating of the collection. It will include the purchase of circulating non-fiction and reference books, particularly in the science fields, and juvenile online reference databases. In order to make these resources as accessible as possible the Rotary Club will also support the purchase of a new children’s computer, monitor and a child-sized computer desk and chair. The Young Adult project is intended to create a special place in the library for the community’s young people. The project will begin with the establishment of a steering committee that will include youth representatives.

Maureen Cubberley, CEO & Chief Librarian, Huntsville Public Library705-789-5232 x3407 HUNTSVILLE from left: Lloyd Henry, library trustee; Councillor John Davis, library trustee; Ana MacKenzie, library trustee;

Barbara White, president of Rotary Club of Huntsville; Valerie Newman, Rotarian; Cathy Jordan, Rotarian; Debbie Knobelsdorf, Rotarian; Ross Kirwin, Rotarian, Tracey Stone, library trustee, Barbara Stephen, Chair, Library Board; Maureen Cubberley CEO/Chief Librarian; Sue Dixon, library trustee.

Rotary Club of Huntsville Donates $17,000 to Huntsville Public Library

“

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The Ottawa Public Library has voted to defer $650,000 of their 2009 budget requests in a move to help

relieve some of the City’s budget pressures. At a special meeting called by the OPL board chair Councillor Jan Harder, the board reviewed the $1.35 million of OPL budget pressures submitted to the City in October for consideration. The board was informed that over $300,000 of these pressures have been suggested for deferral. These include:◆ $25,000 for teen and children’s services,◆ $145,000 for expanded hours,◆ $40,000 for rural service programs, and◆ $95,000 for additional staff training.

The highlight of the Ottawa Public Library Foundation (OPLF) fundraising effort for the year took

place at the Fairmont Château Laurier. Popular historian Richard Gwyn and novelist Roy MacSkimming delighted and enlightened the audience with tales from the life and political times of Sir John A. Macdonald. Celebrated historical writer Charlotte Gray moderated the conversation. The funds raised will be used

to improve the Ottawa Room, a collection of local history, at the Main Library. Over the last 10 years over half a million dollars have been raised by the Foundation and invested in the Ottawa Public Library.

The OPLF is building a history of hosting unique events that have made tangible contributions to the collections and services of the Ottawa Public Library. The OPL has used Foundation funding

Sir John A. Helps Raise Funds for Ottawa’s Local History Collection

During Ontario Public Library Week 2008, the Brockville Public Library launched

Brockville Reads, its third community reading event, this time featuring Lawrence Hill’s magnificent historical novel The Book of Negroes, winner of the 2007 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize and the 2007 Roger Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize. Mr. Hill brings history to life through his creation of a complex, strong and compelling heroine Aminata Diallo. Captured at age 11 from her village in Sierra Leone and sent by ship into slavery in South Carolina, Aminata survives many tribulations and humiliations, serves the British during the Revolutionary War and registers her name in “The Book of Negroes” with the hope of finding freedom. In an interview Mr. Hill said: “I wrote it because it is an astonishing and revealing story that readers deserve to know. It forms but a small piece of the history dramatized in The Book of Negroes. I carved out this work of fiction to celebrate one woman’s journey and to chart her miraculous survival, both physical and emotional.” Mr. Hill will visit the Brockville Public Library, on February 3, 2009 for a book signing. Then at Brockville Collegiate Institute, Mr. Hill will give a reading and answer questions. The audience will have a chance to win first reading of the original opening pages of the manuscript. For more information, visit www.brockvillelibrary.ca.

Brockville Reads with Lawrence Hill

to purchase new technologies, expand collections and access, present unique programs and help people with disabilities enjoy all that the library has to offer.

For more information visit us at www.oplfoundation.ca

Howard Whittaker, Chair, Ottawa Public Library Foundation 613-234-8468 x229

The board further approved a reduction of $345,000 for cost of living adjustments. The OPL’s overall net operating budget in 2008 was $32.5 million. “No one on the library board wants to cut library services,” said Chair Harder. “We’ve decided to defer some of our requests this year. The budget we’ve put forward will enable us to maintain our current level of library services.” Al Roberts, Ottawa Public Library613-580-2424 x41240

King Township Public Library had the absolute pleasure of hosting author Meg Tilly. The event

came by way of Canadian Children’s Book Week, November 15–22. Ms. Tilly, former actress nominated for an Academy Award and Golden Globe winner for her work in Agnes of God, was at the King City branch to discuss her very first Young Adult novel Porcupine, an engaging read about a young girl who loses her father on a peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan. Kelley England, Manager of Children’s and Youth Services invited grade 9 and 10 students from the local high school. Adults and teens alike were completely enthralled with her vibrant flair and style. Over-all a truly wonderful experience!

Kelley England, Manager of Children’s and Young Adult Services

Meg Tilly @ King Township

OPL Board Votes to Defer $650,000 Worth of Budget Pressures

ONTARIO PUBLIC LIBRARY ASSOCIATION

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HoOPLAOntario Public Library Associationa division of the Ontario Library Association50 Wellington Street East, Suite 201Toronto, Ontario M5E 1C8Tel: 416-363-3388 or 866-873-9867FAX: 416-941-9581 or 800-387-1181

HoOPLA describes the decisions and activities of OPLA leadership, explains OPLA program and provides news of interest to Ontario public libraries.

HoOPLA EditorRudi Denham, CEOSt. Thomas Public Library153 Curtis StreetSt. Thomas, Ontario N5P 3Z7Tel: 519-631-6050FAX: 519-631-1987rdenham@st-thomas.library.on.ca

HoOPLA SchedulePrinted in FebruaryOn the OPLA listserv four times per year.

OPLA Council MeetingsDates to be determined

OPLA Listservopla-l@accessola.comOnly for members to ask for advice and to share solutions.

Super ConferenceOPLA Education SessionsOPLA Annual MeetingOPLA Awards DinnerMetro Toronto Convention CentreJanuary 28 – January 31, 2009

Super Conference 2009 OPLA Program PlannersJo-Hellen BernerLindsay Shaw

Occasional PapersFrom time to time as determined by OPLA Council.

© Copyright 2009, Ontario Library Association. All rights reserved.

EXECUTIVE

President 2008 – Cindy Weir Orangeville Public Library cweir@orangeville.ca

Vice President/President-Elect – Bessie Sullivan Kingston Frontenac Public Library bsullivan@kfpl.ca

Treasurer – Janet Woodbridge Essex County Library jwoodbridge@essexcountylibrary.ca

Past President – Darcy Glidden Hamilton Public Library dglidden@hpl.ca

Secretary – Margaret Sedgwick Fort Frances Public Library msedgwick@fort-frances.com

REGIONAL COUNCILLORS

Northwest Region – Margaret Sedgwick Fort Frances Public Library msedgwick@fort-frances.com

Northeast Region – Paul Walker North Bay Public Library paul.walker@cityofnorthbay.ca

The Vaughan Public Library Board announced the appointment of Vaughan Public Libraries’ new

Chief Executive Officer, Margie Singleton, June 2008. “Mrs. Singleton has held a variety of positions within the organization during the past eight years, most recently as Director of Planning and Communications.

She brings an informed, well-rounded perspective, along with significant experience from other Library systems to the position of Chief Executive Officer,” stated Gino Rosati, Chair, Vaughan Public Library Board. “In her position as a member of the senior management team, Mrs. Singleton was instrumental in the creation of VPL’s most recent Strategic Plan, Today for Tomorrow 2008–2011, and the Board is delighted she will be here to implement the vision set out in the Plan and guide the future of VPL,” Mr. Rosati continued. In accepting the position, Mrs. Singleton said, “This is an exciting time to be taking on the leadership of Vaughan Public Libraries.” Arielle Zomer, Marketing and Communications AssistantVaughan Public Libraries905-653-READ (7323) ext. 4146

Eastern Region – Laura Pallister Kingston Frontenac Public Library lpallister@kfpl.ca

Central Region East – Linda Del Grande Clarington Public Library ldelgrande@clarington-library.on.ca

Mid-Central Region – Meg Uttangi Mississauga Library System meg.uttangimatsos@mississauga.ca

Central Region West – Karen Milligan-Thurston Hamilton Public Library kmilliga@hpl.ca

Southwest Region – N/A

Toronto – Paul Trumphour Toronto Public Library ptrumphour@torontopubliclibrary.ca

HoOPLA Editor – Rudi Denham St. Thomas Public Library rdenham@st-thomas.library.on.ca

Kickstart to Participation – Diana Bang Toronto Public Library dbang@torontopubliclibrary.ca

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

Vaughan Appoints Margie Singleton CEO

Next IssueI look forward to your contributions for the next issue of HoOPLA before April 15, 2009. Please contact rdenham@st-thomas.library.on.ca