PERTH — Perth & District Union Library CEO and Chief Librarian Erica Heeson highlighted the growing role of the library as both a community hub and an affordable public service during a presentation to Perth’s committee of the whole on May 12.
Serving Perth, Drummond/North Elmsley and Tay Valley, the Perth and District Union Library supports a population of more than 20,000 residents and offers books, digital resources, internet access, technology support and hundreds of community programs. In 2025, the library delivered 590 programs attended by more than 5,500 people.
Heeson noted strong growth in the use of library services, including a 109 per cent increase in meeting room bookings compared to 2024. The library also recorded more than 81,000 visits in 2025 and circulated more than 149,000 items.
“The library is an essential community facility because it is a vibrant community hub that draws people together and inspires community connections. It is a place for all ages,” said Heeson.
Recent accomplishments included completion of a community needs assessment, renovations to the library’s second floor, expanded youth programming and new partnerships with schools and community organizations.
Heeson outlined a new strategic plan built around five pillars: accessibility, investing in infrastructure, increasing community awareness, strengthening programming and enhancing online services. Planned projects include hybrid meeting technology, building maintenance and upgrades, website improvements and increased investment in e-books and digital collections.
“We also plan to undertake a feasibility study to complete concept design for a library expansion or renovation and, depending on the results of that study, plan for a future capital campaign for that expansion,” she said.
The library, she pointed out, costs taxpayers about $38 per person annually, while the average cardholder borrows approximately 30 items a year, representing roughly $700 in savings compared to purchasing those materials.
Heeson described the library as an essential community facility that supports literacy, affordability, social connection and access to technology for residents of all ages.
“I think an investment in our library is an investment in our community,” said Councillor Jim Boldt. “So going forward, all I can say is keep doing the things you’re doing. We need you, and thank you for everything that you do.”
Keep connected to your community—Read the latest Perth Ontario news.
