Loud for Libraries challenges long-standing perceptions

Every year, libraries across the province celebrate Public Library Week during the third week of October.

The Ontario Library Association coordinates this provincial effort and for 2026 is using the theme ‘Loud for Libraries’.

As they explain it, “the theme creates space for reflection, conversation and visible, collective support for public libraries and the communities they serve. It recognizes that advocacy can take many forms, and that every voice plays a role in shaping strong, responsive library services.

In Prince Edward County we are fully committed to this principle and warmly accept any suggestions for improving the library. This is true when it comes to the library’s print and digital collection – most of the titles we add each year originate as requests from our readers – and you can always submit your suggestions for new titles at any branch of the library or at peclibrary.org/rfp. All suggestions will be considered.

We also welcome suggestions from patrons for programs. Many of the long-running and popular programs – Mah Jong, Chair Yoga, French Conversation Club and others – started because someone asked.

The Poet Tree box at the Ameliasburgh Branch Library is an initiative of Sheila Stanley who had the idea and worked with branch Librarian Gisa to make it happen. There’s a new poem this week by poet Kim Fedor, so drop by and give it a read.

If you have suggestions for programming, you can chat with your local branch staff or reach out to me directly at liz@peclibrary.org.

Suggestions or questions about the library collection can be directed to Danielle at dpilon@peclibrary.org, and CEO Barbara Sweet is always happy to hear any comments you may wish to share at ceo@peclibrary.org.

Loud for Libraries also reminds us that public libraries are no longer the silent, intimidating places of the past. The Active Play Room at the Picton Branch Library welcomes children to jump, climb, and play at their library and is certainly not a quiet zone. A similar space is available, at times, in the Wellington Branch Library thanks to a donor.

The Ontario Library Association explains that “Loud for Libraries also challenges long-standing perceptions of libraries as quiet, passive spaces.

While libraries continue to offer spaces for reading, learning, and reflection, they are also vibrant community hubs for dialogue, creativity, connection, and civic participation. The theme reinforces the idea that libraries are not only places to visit, but institutions worth speaking up for.”

Drop by your local branch to share your ideas and enjoy the lively, creative, and active public library branches in Ameliasburgh, Bloomfield, Consecon, Milford, Picton and Wellington.