The Ottawa Public Library is a beloved community resource that is kind to its users. You need only a library card to gain access to services for jobseekers and entrepreneurs, activities for family members of all ages, guidance for newcomers to Canada, and of course free materials and Internet access for leisure and personal growth.

So it is only natural to put the focus on our libraries during Kindness Week in Ottawa. The Ottawa Public Library Foundation is committed to providing funds for our libraries in order to help them continue to provide the services our community members appreciate. If you’d like to show your appreciation, make a donation today.

If you’re interested in volunteering your time, please visit the Friends of the Ottawa Public Library Association.

“Dear Ottawa Public Library Staff, I moved to Ottawa three years ago and have been thrilled with every encounter I have had with the Ottawa Public Library.  Every encounter with staff (help desk, staff on telephone, circulation desk) has been positively satisfying; I have always felt as if the staff members have been happy to do their jobs and have graciously offered assistance.  I appreciate the “friendly reminders/updates” via email about books on hold and due dates.  I have belonged to many, many libraries in my lifetime and I have nothing but gratitude and respect for all that Ottawa Public Library has offered.  Please keep up the great work and commend your employees for a job professionally done!„

Beaverbrook:

A patron at the Beaverbrook branch sent this letter thanking Jennifer MacDonald, Circulation Assistant: 

“I want to express my gratitude to Jennifer MacDonald at the local branch for the information regarding the freegal service offered through the library website.  What an awesome service and if Jennifer hadn’t told me about it, I may not have found it.  Thanks so much for the excellent customer service.„

A loyal library customer wrote:

“The library is our Mecca for electronic newspapers!  We use your web site every day to view the newspapers and it has meant a great reduction in the amount of garbage we have to deal with at home!  We are thrilled the library has it and the library is our #1 city service!„

Blackburn Hamlet: 

A customer confessed to the supervisor that she’d overhead Michel Kazan, Public Service Assistant, give a one-on-one computer tutorial and was so impressed that she immediately booked an appointment for herself!  She’s learned so much already, and can’t wait to come back for more lessons.

Carlingwood:

A music lover shared this great idea:

“You guys have a great collection of music CDs. You have CDs of many artists and genres I’m interested in, but sometimes I don’t know if I’ll enjoy the music when I get home. I would like to suggest putting a music sampling area where we can listen to one song or a sample of the CD. From there, we can decide if we like the music, and can sign it out. I find with the jazz CDs, I never know what to expect when I get home. Thank you!„

This note was sent to the Carlingwood branch, in recognition of Jessica Lai’s help:

“On behalf of my parents, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your staff, especially Jessica, for the services the branch staff provided. My parents are frequent users of your branch since they moved to the Carlingwood area early last year. They are seniors and they don’t speak English. Luckily they met Jessica. Jessica has always been patient when answering their questions, showing them how to use the computer, and demonstrating how to check their accounts and renew books.  Jessica has been so helpful.  Thank you very much for the services your branch provided. Please pass our thank you note to Jessica.„

Main: 

A letter addressed to Jane Venus, Manager of Lifelong Learning and Literacy read:

“Dear Mrs. Venus, I am writing to you today to congratulate these librarians: Mrs. Allison Blackburn, Mrs. Josée Tradif and Mr. Jacques Leboeuf.  Mrs. Blackburn and Mr. Leboeuf have done some research on the net to help me find articles a number of times already.  As for Mrs. Tardif, she helped find an article with Mrs. Blackburn this Friday January 27.  They always proved to be tenacious and efficient with a big bright smile.  As a patron of the Main Ottawa Public Library, I do appreciate people who love their work and are pleasant with the public.„

Rosemount:  

This patron wanted to express a sincere appreciation for the OPL:

“Dear Ms. Harder,
I am writing to you in your capacity as Chair of the OPL Board. I am also cc’ing my city councilor, Ms. Hobbs, as well as Mr. Watson and Ms. Clubb so that they are aware of the contents of this message.  I wish to offer my thanks and support to the Ottawa Public Library, its retiring chief librarian, Ms. Clubb and the entire OPL staff.  I am a frequent visitor to my “home” branch at Rosemount and I have found the OPL staff there to be unfailingly helpful, polite and engaged. I am also very impressed with the ease of searching through the OPL collection online. I have been the beneficiary on several occasions of the library responding to my suggestions for purchases such as the “Eyes on the Prize” award-winning DVD collection on the story of the US Civil Rights Movement. I am also pleased that the library offers workshops and the like to new Canadians, seniors and youth.  There is no particular impetus for this message at this time, merely belated thanks and recognition of one of the best instances that I know of a great community resource. This is one notable instance in which I feel unequivocally that my tax dollars are well and deservedly spent. I am not affiliated with any particular library support group but am writing as an individual citizen of Ottawa.  I am pleased to discuss the contents of this message and please feel free to share as you deem appropriate.„

Stittsville: 

A mother who was shown how to access Tumblebooks through the library’s website by Catherine Flegg, Supervising Librarian, said:

“Thank you so much for doing this for us. My son was so excited to get a book for himself on the e-reader.„

St-Laurent: 

Kristina Roudiy, Children’s Programming & Public Service Assistant, received this email:

“You have no idea how much we love having you over. The story time with the pre-school is one of the best things that has happened in camps. It is also very encouraging and positive that the youth in our camps are in the library, reading and learning and the best part of all this is that it’s the youth that are asking if they can go to the library. This is all due to the staff and resources at the St-Laurent Public Library Branch.  Thank you!„

The Ottawa Public Library is committed to providing information and resources to Ottawa business owners, offering: one-on-one Business Consultations with a specialized Business Librarian, access to online databases, and workshops delivered through community partnerships. Our Foundation helps support the library’s good work.

In February, the Ottawa Public Library will hold a series of workshops for business owners, with topics ranging from understanding financial statements to perfecting a company’s brand. And registration is free.

This is just one way the Ottawa Public Library is at work helping members of our community. With the help of library resources, entrepreneurs can find success and compete in the world of business.

For a list of the Ottawa Public Library’s business services, click here.

Libraries are about stories, both factual and fictional, about people’s lives.  So much can happen each and every day under one roof.  As busy as it is, it is sometimes hard to appreciate everything that happens right under our noses.  Tania Mohr, Children’s Programs and Public Service Assistant submitted her observations as she was working one evening.  That evening, at precisely the exact same moment, ALL of the following activities were taking place in her department at the Carlingwood branch:

• A child was looking for his favourite books (he had come prepared with a list!)
• Another child was enjoying our colouring pages and crayons.
• A little boy was putting on a puppet show for an enthusiastic audience of one (his mom).
• A child was curled up on the soft red chairs with a grown up who was reading a story aloud.
• A child was plugged into OPL’s Garden of Reading, with a pair of complimentary earphones.
• Another child was using Microsoft Word to type up her homework, while her father sat close by, listening to the little sister reading her French homework.
• A mother was asking about books about getting along with others, for her preschooler.

Blackburn Hamlet:

A very satisfied customer wrote in a Christmas card to Mandy Lavergne, Public Services Supervisor at BH:

“ Thank you for your kindness and your excellent service.  We appreciate the library being in the Hamlet.„

Carlingwood

One happy patron thanked the library for going above and beyond clients’ expectations:

“I just appreciate the libraries and mainly my home library at Carlingwood.  The service and experience has been above my expectations for the many years that I have been here in the Ottawa area.  Thanks for a job well done.  Very well done and Merry Christmas to you all.„

Main:

A message received via biblio_compliment read:

“I think that the staff at the Main branch on Metcalfe Street in Ottawa are doing an awesome job. I have never had a problem with any of the staff there.„

Stittsville:

A library user pleased with her recent dealings at the Stittsville branch wrote:

“Better service at the Stittsville Library than most (all) of the stores I shopped at today.„

Stittsville:

Taking that extra step to help out a client:

“Thank you Mary, who called Centrepointe Branch for me to clear up an outstanding DVD on my account which had been returned on the date due. It was located on the shelf at Centrepointe and the fine was cleared from the file. It is always nice when staff take the extra step to help a client.„

Stittsville:

A frequent visitor had this to say about the charming Stittsville branch:

“Love the book displays.  Always causes me to think differently and discover new connections and ways of looking at things. Thank you Bonnie. Please continue with the excellent work.„

Vernon:

OPL staff at Vernon were thanked for helping patrons in the digital age:

“I have been well served (by Anne Shannon & page Todd Seeney) and helped in my search on the Internet. I know nothing of e-mail or Internet and have been rescued by Anne who helped set up an e-mail account. Much Thanks!„

“It has been six months that I came to Canada (and Ottawa!). At times, when I did not know where to go, the Library has been a refuge. When I wanted access to computers and books, the Library again was ready to help. It has always been welcoming. I just want to thank you. I am flying back to my country on Wednesday. Maybe I can return maybe not, but I will always remember the Library as a “home” in Ottawa.„

Greenboro:

A tweet posted on Twitter reads:

“Thanks Greenboro library for always putting the coolest books in the “Have You Read” kids section. Have found many gems!„

Main & Sunnyside:

A heartfelt letter from an appreciative library user reads:

“I am writing in support of the programs offered by the Ottawa Public Library. As a new mother, I regularly attend and sincerely appreciate the Babytime programs at the Main Branch and the Sunnyside Branch. The songs and stories promote early literacy through phonics and rhymes. I find that the bond with my daughter seems to deepen as a result of the focused interaction and play. I have learned many new songs that I sing over and over again with my child at home. In addition, I have made friends with other parents and am grateful to be connected to this informal network of advice and support. As a bilingual parent, I find it challenging to find programs offered in French and I especially appreciate any efforts to provide a bilingual learning experience for my child. I encourage the facilitators to continue to incorporate more French into the programs. These programs are wonderful and I congratulate the people who work on the activities. They are helping my daughter develop a love of reading that will hopefully continue throughout her life.„

North Gower:

A long-time library user stated:

“Having been a library addict for many many years and having lived all over – Ottawa, Perth, and now North Gower – I’ve encountered a lot of library staff. The majority of staff are very efficient and helpful. The very best, however work at the North Gower Branch. In particular, Louise Drouin Backs and Karen Craig. They make it so very inviting. All the volunteers are ever wonderful and friendly.„

Stittsville:

One user shared these kind words about the Stittsville Branch:

“I wish to make special note of the especially friendly and competent service I receive from Christie Pitcher. She is always cheerful and goes out of her way to be helpful. Thank you Christie and all the wonderful Stittsville staff.„

St-Laurent:

A patron taking advantage of the Library’s many services said:

“Thank you for taking your time and energy in reading my compliment to the Ottawa Public Library today. I signed up for my second Computer Tutorial with Michel at the St-Laurent Branch last Thursday afternoon. Michelle Chivers is such a nice person to talk to and he [provides explanations for] all my questions so well. We worked together on how to scan an item and then download it onto my memory stick. I was excited to learn how to download onto my memory stick as tonight, November 15th, at the Main Branch of the OPL, I am attending a “How to Create a Great Resume and Cover Letter” course. Eventually when I can write a great resume, I will be able to download it on my own. I do thank Michel for his patience and his knowledge in helping me with my computer questions. When I have a couple more questions, I will not hesitate to sign-up for the Computer Tutorial Sessions at the St-Laurent Branch of our OPL. It is so worthwhile and again, thank you for all Michel’s help and I am looking forward to the course tonight at the Main Branch. This really does mean a lot to me, and I do appreciate all your time and energy in setting up the sessions. Emily Porter from the St-Laurent Branch was kind enough to call me a day in advance to help remind me of my appointment. It all worked out well, thank you for your professionalism and kind service. Also, Colette Lavigne did originally sign me up for the Computer Tutorial and thank you to Colette too. She’s great!„

As library supporters mingled with local authors, politicians, and librarians at the Ottawa Public Library Foundation’s ninth annual Literary Evening, they enjoyed a delectable dinner and a provocative conversation at our city’s newest architectural gem, the Ottawa Convention Centre.

Before guests were invited to reflect upon the future of libraries, Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson asked attendees to turn their attention to retiring City Librarian Barbara Clubb, who in her tenure has ensured that Ottawa’s libraries deliver remarkable services that will meet the needs of current library users and future generations.  Mayor Watson recognized that the Ottawa Public Library is one of the great successes of amalgamation, citing a 2010 survey which ranked the Library as the top City service in terms of client satisfaction, and thanked Barbara Clubb for helping to make the library the success it is today.

Literary Evening attendees later heard acclaimed Canadian author Alberto Manguel, known as the “guardian of the book,” relate his views on the importance of libraries. “Libraries lead to a return to the core of our society,” Manguel shared, explaining that books written in all eras and all languages demonstrate a shared humanity.

Co-host of CTV’s Question Period, Kevin Newman, joined Manguel in a conversation about the future of the written word in the digital age. When asked whether he felt social media would replace books as a means to discovering truth, Manguel responded that social media and books can work side by side to improve our societies and our lives, reminding listeners that, “We have to be extremely careful not to create false oppositions.” Although old technologies at first appear to be replaced by the new, they most often continue because they offer something unique and valuable.

Such is the case with  libraries, Manguel argued; there will always be a need for them. The materials and services libraries provide might evolve to meet new needs, but people will turn to libraries for knowledge, assistance, and enjoyment. Manguel stated, “As long as we are human beings we will need libraries to tell us our identity, memory, and experience.” We will turn to libraries because they teach us how to “ask better questions to find answers,” regardless of the media we use to find them.

A biblio_compliment about the website and the Orléans and Cumberland branches reads:

“A great web site and I have easy access to two of the best libraries in the Ottawa area – Orléans and Ray Friel [have] the nicest and most efficient staff. You could not ask for better. The web site has made borrowing material fun and exciting. Keep up the great work!„

Digital Audiobooks:

The library received this feedback from a user regarding the digital audiobooks collection:

“I want to compliment those in charge of the digital audio books collection and thank you for making some great books available! These have been so helpful to me.„

Nepean Centrepointe:

An email received from a Cornwall Public Library Board member reads:

“Last Monday, October 24th, I visited your branch at around 3 p.m. I was directed to the 2nd floor. There I was greeted by a young lady who was extremely helpful. She took me to the area where the Railway books I wanted were located. When I made a non-serious remark that they were all on the bottom shelf she offered to look for me. Then when I was leaving, she asked if I found what I wanted. I was very impressed with her desire to help a client. As a member of the board of directors of the Cornwall library, she is an example of the type of person and service we want in our library.„

North Gloucester:

The following is a message from online feedback regarding the North Gloucester Branch and email reminders:

“Just to let you know, I love my North Gloucester Branch – everyone who works there is ALWAYS pleasant and helpful. And I love your email reminder service – and now the fact that your email will allow me to renew quickly and easily. Bravo to the Ottawa Public Library!!!! You are an incredible asset to our community.„

Rockliffe Park:

The new Teen Express game collection at the Rockcliffe Park branch (funded by the Rockcliffe Park Residents Association) is bringing enjoyment to its’ users. One teen commented:

“It’s great! I don’t have to go to another branch to get them; I can just stop in after school and get them at my local library.„

Ruth E. Dickinson:

A happy patron, pleased with the full gamut of activities taking place at Ruth E. Dickinson, said:

“I like Ruth E. Dickinson Library because there are a lot of activities for families, and my daughter loves to go to the toddler story time. Amanda is very very good at story time; she is a good teacher for children. And I went to the summer family ‘bring your own pet’ program. It was very fun. Thank you very much.„

Stittsville Branch:

One library patron thanks the service desk for taking the time to resolve an issue:

“Thank you to Mary who called the Centrepointe Branch for me to clear up an outstanding DVD on my account which had been returned on the due date. It was located on the shelf at Centrepointe and the fine was cleared from the file. It is always nice when those working take that extra step to help a client.„

Sunnyside:

A pleased library user shared:

“„

I use the library often and just wanted to take a moment to say how much I appreciate it, especially Sunnyside branch. Thank you very much for providing such a wonderful resource for anyone who wants to use it.”

“Amber, who uses the St. Jerome stop, commended the excellent service at the stop provided by Leslie, Bea and Adina. Amber says she comes in every week, and takes out many items. All three staff members are always welcoming to her and go out of their way to greet her. She often has crutches, and often either Leslie or Bea will ensure she gets down the stairs and off the bus safely with her bags of books – and in the winter, sometimes even throwing on a scarf and helping her outside. She wants us to know how lucky we are to have such great employees and that she really appreciates them.„

Emerald Plaza:

A tweet sent by an avid twitter follower reads:

“Dear OPL, Thank you for having efficient and kind staff. One of your staff [members] at Emerald Plaza helped me find a book and redirected holds to the bus!„

Main:

The following is an email received from a presenter of a recent adult program at Main:

“Thanks to all for everything everyone did for Wednesday night’s event at the Ottawa Public Library’s author reading. Michael Murphy (Coordinator of Adult & Information Services for the OPL) was most helpful from the time I first met him months ago to begin preparing; then [by bringing on board] Jim Turner, who applied his graphics talents with the OPL artist to complete the poster which was placed at library branches (which actually brought someone into the auditorium that night who contributed to the dialogue and purchased a book!); [and finally, providing an introduction for] me and kindly giving a gift from the Library. I wish to also thank Brenda Roberts (Collection Development Librarian) for her guidance in the Library acquisition [process for] my books and for initiating/facilitating an author’s night, which I did not realize the OPL did, although rarely as I understand it. It is a great privilege for an Ottawa author to be so supported by the Library in this way.„

A patron was so impressed by the excellent customer service she received from Main Library Borrower Services employee, Gregor Bertram, she felt compelled to write the following comment:

“I would like to congratulate Gregor at the circulation desk. Gregor [provides] the utmost [excellence as a] service officer. As I was waiting in line, I could not help [but] observe him serving customers. Gregor was very patient and courteous with customers when explaining services. Again, congratulations to you and your Branch for having wonderful staff such as Gregor. Thank you Gregor for your wonderful service and friendly smile!„

Nepean Centrepointe:

One customer sent this email response after a circulation error was fixed:

“I find the staff at the library well-informed and hard-working, and am taking this opportunity to thank you and all of your colleagues at the Nepean Centrepointe branch for the good service that you provide.„

The bursary fund got its start through FOPLA with the help of a generous donation from Mr. Coté, former Ottawa Public Library (OPL) Trustee and co-founder of FOPLA and the FOPLA trust fund. In 2010, the OPL Foundation joined FOPLA and Mr. Coté to help the fund reach self-sustaining status, donating $10,000 to equal their contributions. Donated funds were matched by the OTSS and a bursary plan for information studies students was put in place.

The bursary will be awarded to future librarians from the National Capital Region (including current library employees pursuing further education) from the interest earned on the fund. Each year, eligible students will be considered for a $2000 bursary.

Barbara Clubb is viewed as an expert and a leader in the Canadian and international library communities, known especially for striving for excellence in what our libraries can deliver. A champion of literacy and ever-eager to keep up with the latest in library innovation, it is clear that she loves libraries and believes in their value.

And she has always striven to share the value of libraries with the people of Ottawa. She was one of the founding members of the Ottawa Public Library Foundation, established in April 2002, and is a strong advocate for the OPL, keen to share the OPL’s successes and gain support for our city’s libraries.

We are so grateful to her for giving so much to our city. We wish her the very best in her future endeavours.