In Conversation: Barrie Public Library CEO

The Barrie Public Library has had a rollercoaster of a year. 

While the COVID-19 pandemic caused a halt to in-person borrowing, the library never stopped providing books, online courses and more. 

"In terms of the digital, people are downloading e-books and audiobooks more than ever. That service is increased 25, 35 per cent over last year," said CEO Lauren Jessop. 

While online services were up, the library's closed doors meant some staff had to be laid off -- a decision Jessop says she didn't take lightly. 

"It was heartbreaking, it was not something that we wanted to do," she said. 

Looking forward, the Library's operating budget is fairly standard:  "There's nothing really too exciting about it, it's really status quo as we maintain that service," said Jessop. 

However what is exciting, she said, is the planned expansion into the neighbourhood of Holly.

"Generally when a neighbourhood is built, a library is part of that plan. And it wasn't for Holly," said Jessop. 

After council requested the budget for the expansion be decreased, Jessop and the board of directors decided to cut the managerial position from the Holly budget -- meaning that one manager will divide their time between the city's Painswick branch and Holly branch.

"I think there is some level of sacrifice in that, but other library systems make that work," said Jessop. 

Providing service to Holly, said Jessop, is set to be a highlight of 2021, as well as the moment the Library can once again welcome community members inside. 

"Some librarians never get to build a branch from scratch -- but we do. It's going to be kind of fun, especially in that small space, to make it a real warm welcoming place for that neighbourhood."