Apply to Join our Library Board

Waterloo Public Library Board Members

Purpose

The Waterloo Public Library Board is the driving force behind the library’s vision and mission and is grounded in its values. Composed of dedicated community members, board members play a vital role in shaping library policy, overseeing sustainability and ensuring the library continues to serve as a dynamic centre for lifelong learning, freedom of expression and community engagement.

Vision: We envision a thriving community that is multiliterate, engaged and welcoming to all.
Mission: We provide equitable access to lifelong learning and contribute to the wellbeing of all.
Values: Trust, Equity, Joy of Discovery, Future Readiness, Compassion

The Waterloo Public Library Board is appointed by the City of Waterloo Council and acts in accordance with the Ontario Public Libraries Act (herein after called “the Act”).

The Board’s Role and Responsibilities

The Board has the authority to act as the governing body to oversee the purpose, plans and policies of Waterloo Public Library. The Board acts as a collaborative, decision-making body led by the Board Chair.

Board Responsibilities
• Establish policies that govern the operations of the library.
• Appoint and oversee the Chief Executive Officer (hereinafter called the “CEO”) who provides general supervision over and direction of the operations of the library and staff.
• Evaluate the CEO’s performance.
• Approve and monitor plans of the library such as its strategic plan.
• Monitor the finances of the library to ensure ethical and sound financial operations.
• Assess relevant information regarding library service for the community.
• Endorse service priorities and advocate for appropriate funding and resources to achieve service priorities.
• Work in collaboration with other board members to make decisions related to the governance of the Library.
Required Qualifications
As per the Act, and/or City of Waterloo Committee by-law, the persons appointed to the Board must be:
• A Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada
• At least 18 years of age
• A resident of Waterloo
• Not currently employed by the Waterloo Public Library or the City of Waterloo, nor a former
• employee of either organization within the past two years.
• Not a former councillor of the City of Waterloo within the previous two years.

Code of Conduct
Board members are expected to comply with all relevant WPL policies, including GOV 1-2 Code of Conduct and the City of Waterloo Conflict of Interest.

Board Member Skills and Experience
Waterloo Public Library requires board members with diverse experiences and varied perspectives. Board members are required to work collaboratively for the overall good of the library, planning and acting for the long-term sustainability of the organization.

Essential Competencies (required for all board members)
• A strong commitment to the role and value of public libraries
• An understanding of, or willingness to learn, the governance responsibilities of a public library
board, including fiduciary oversight, strategic leadership, and policy governance
• Meaningful involvement in community service or civic engagement
• Perspectives and lived experiences that reflect the diversity of the Waterloo community
• Respect for differing viewpoints and a collaborative approach to decision-making
• The ability to participate in thoughtful discussion and contribute constructively to Board
deliberations
• Sufficient time and commitment to fulfill Board and Committee responsibilities
• A balance of Board continuity through returning members and renewal through new members

Applications close November 17, 2026.