Books & Audiobooks
Truth, Reconciliation and The Library’s Ongoing Work
Waterloo Public Library is located on the Haldimand Tract, land the Haudenosaunee have longstanding relationships with and rights to, recognized in the 1784 Haldimand Proclamation. Waterloo is within the ancestral territory of the Anishnaabe, Haudenosaunee and Chonnonton Peoples who cared for it for many generations before European settlement. We acknowledge the enduring presence and deep traditional knowledge and philosophies of the Indigenous Peoples with whom we share this land today.
Reconciliation with Indigenous communities is our work to do. We commit to action. To learning and decision-making that recognizes the ongoing impacts of colonialism, to building respectful and reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities and to creating space for Indigenous voices, knowledge systems and community-led priorities.
A Message from Our CEO
Kelly Kipfer
One of my favorite things about working at the library is the countless opportunities this work gives us to co-create with our community. Our strategic plan emphasizes co-design and directs us to approach all of our goals with a human-centered lens. After two full years of really focusing on co-creating our services, programs and spaces with community members, I can say we are getting really good at it. There are some great examples in 2025.
When teens helped design and deliver programs for other teens and kids, including an environmental literacy project funded through a grant they applied for, that’s co-design in action. When feedback from our Older Adult Advisory Group directly determined the accessible technologies we added to our collection, that’s co-design in action. When community members helped us explore what a future tech space at John M. Harper Branch could look like, they weren’t just answering our questions, they were helping us figure out the right ones to ask. These aren’t one-off moments for how Waterloo Public Library works. It is the culture we are cultivating.
I’m also proud of the staff who show up to this work with real curiosity and care. From expanding Tech Connect to reach more people where they are, to launching a WPL Futures Lab to help us think seriously about what AI means for our community, this team is genuinely invested in seeing our library thrive today and tomorrow. 2025 is the mid-point for our current strategic plan so it is a great time to reflect on what we have done and what remains for us to tackle next. We are excited to explore how we will co-create with you in 2026.
A Message from Board Chair
Frank Mensink
From a comprehensive accessibility audit to substantial advancements on our McCormick Branch expansion project, work in 2025 was focused on making the library more inclusive for everyone.
Our 2024–2028 strategic plan reflects a strong commitment to making Waterloo Public Library a place where everyone belongs. We know that people are healthier when they feel connected to community spaces, have strong social networks and have opportunities to learn at every stage of life. Our Library is essential social infrastructure that helps our community grow and thrive.
As you read through the 2025 Community Report, you will see that WPL is delivering programs, services and spaces that have real and meaningful impacts in our city.
On a personal note, at the end of 2026 I will finish my second and final term with the Waterloo Public Library Board. After 8 years with WPL I have been continually inspired by what our library means to this community. This fall the City of Waterloo will issue a call to interested community members to apply for the WPL Board. With so many exciting opportunities on the horizon for WPL I would encourage you, as you read this report, to consider whether serving on the Board could be the way you contribute to the future of the library.
On behalf of the Board, I wish to extend sincere appreciation to Kelly Kipfer, the CEO and her dedicated staff whose professionalism, adaptability and passion ensure that services not only meet but anticipate the evolving needs of our community.
We also recognize the continued support of City of Waterloo Council and staff, community partners and volunteers. Their contributions strengthen our ability to provide equitable access to information, foster literacy, and support lifelong learning.
2025 Top Reads
Your Favourites
Adult Fiction
One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
A tender, sun-soaked romance about second chances and the pull of the past, One Golden Summer follows a woman who returns to a lakeside town tied to a formative season of her youth. As old memories resurface and new connections take shape, she’s forced to reckon with who she was, who she’s become, and what it means to open her heart again. Perfect for readers who love nostalgic settings, emotional depth, and slow-burn romance with plenty of warmth.
Adult Non-Fiction
Every Salad Ever by Greta Podleski
Bright, approachable, and packed with flavour, this comprehensive cookbook reimagines the humble salad as a satisfying, crave-worthy meal. Greta Podleski offers a wide range of recipes – from hearty grain bowls to fresh greens and protein-packed options – along with helpful tips for building balanced dishes. Ideal for anyone looking to add variety, nutrition, and creativity to their everyday cooking.
Teen Fiction
The Rose Field by Philip Pullman
From the master storyteller behind His Dark Materials, The Rose Field is a richly imagined tale that blends quiet magic with deep philosophical insight. Set in a world both familiar and mysterious, the story explores themes of memory, identity, and the unseen forces that shape our lives. A compelling read for those who appreciate thoughtful, lyrical fiction with a touch of the extraordinary.
Picturebook
I’ve Very Busy: A (Nearly Forgotten) Birthday Book by Oliver Jeffers
Charming and gently humorous, this picturebook explores the small but meaningful moments that make friendships special. When a birthday is almost forgotten, the story unfolds with Oliver Jeffers’ signature wit and warmth, reminding readers that even busy lives have room for kindness and connection. A delightful choice for readers of all ages who appreciate thoughtful, whimsical storytelling.
Junior Fiction
Echo by Pam Muñoz Ryan
Weaving together multiple storylines across time and place, Echo is a powerful novel that centers on a mysterious harmonica and the lives it touches. From Nazi Germany to Depression-era America, each character’s journey is shaped by music, resilience, and hope. Emotionally resonant and beautifully told, this is a standout read for anyone who loves historical fiction with a magical thread.
Junior Non-Fiction
Who Will Win?: Underwater Battles by Jerry Pallotta
Dive into the depths with Who Will Win?: Underwater Battles, an exciting nonfiction-style exploration of the ocean’s fiercest encounters. Featuring vivid illustrations and fascinating facts, the book compares powerful sea creatures in action-packed “battles,” making learning both fun and engaging. A great pick for curious readers interested in marine life and science with a playful twist.
Junior Graphic Novel
Sonic the Hedgehog: On the Go (Volume 1) by Ian Flynn
Fast-paced and full of action, this graphic novel collection follows Sonic and friends as they race to stop Dr. Eggman’s latest schemes. With humor, heart, and dynamic artwork, On the Go captures the spirit of the beloved franchise while offering new adventures for longtime fans and newcomers alike. A fun, accessible read for anyone who enjoys high-energy storytelling.
By the Numbers
68,887
active members
1,658,329
in-person & virtual visits
1,163
programs
875
hours of service provided by 70 volunteers
13,776
new library cards
1,660,971
items borrowed
37,936
program attendees
181,602
public computer and WiFi users
Goal No. 1
Lifelong Learning
People find joy in lifelong learning and trust the library to support and enhance their learning journeys.
Borrow, Play, Connect
At WPL, we’ve been focused on bringing people together – across ages and cultures – through programs, collections, and spaces designed with connection in mind.
We’re continuing to expand our collection of Cool Things to Borrow. From pickleball sets and snowshoes to oversized games like Connect 4 and Tetris Tumble, these items are made for sharing. Whether it’s grandparents playing with grandchildren or friends gathering in the park, these group-friendly options make it easier for people of all ages to spend time together.
We’ve also grown our intercultural and intergenerational programming to reflect and celebrate the diversity of our community. New and expanded offerings include Chinese language learning, Chinese storytime, and a Mahjong club, along with vibrant events showcasing an array of cultures. Intercultural author talks also give people of more opportunities to share and connect in meaningful ways.
A group leads community members in traditional dance at the Mid-Autumn Festival at WPL
Two staff members sit at a table during WPL's 2025 Staff Development Day
Learning That Moves Us Forward
We’ve been working on new ways to support staff growth, making it easier for staff to keep learning on the job. Our monthly “Learning Tune-Up” sessions, focused on practical skills and emerging trends, are now delivered through a new Staff Learning Academy platform. This shift provides a more user-friendly experience for staff while helping leaders better understand how learning is progressing across the organization.
To tackle big questions and continuously improve how we work, we brought staff together in design sprints – collaborative, hands-on sessions focused on solving real organizational challenges. This human-centered approach ensures that staff voices are part of shaping the future of the library.
Together, these efforts reflect a progressive, people-centered approach to staff development – one that models curiosity, invites continuous learning, and supports every staff member in growing alongside the community we serve.
“This neighbourhood branch has everything that a Canadian public library should have, and more. But the staff are the highlight. They make the atmosphere light, fun and welcoming. They seem not to tire of being helpful. Thank you!”
Goal No. 2
Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Access
People know they belong at the Waterloo Public Library. They are authentically engaged and meaningfully represented in the life of the library.
Shaped by Community, Built for Everyone
Many of our recent projects have been shaped by listening closely to our community and building meaningful relationships to guide what we offer.
This work is complemented by insights from our Older Adult Working Group, whose feedback helped us introduce more accessible resources such as the Victor Reader Stream, Envoy Connect, and C-Pens, tools designed to make reading and information more inclusive for everyone.
Behind the scenes, we continue to invest in learning opportunities that strengthen how we serve our community. Through training such as Rainbow Diversity 101 and Truth and Reconciliation experiences, including the Kairos Blanket Exercise and collaborations with Crow Shield Lodge, staff are building the knowledge and understanding needed to create more inclusive, welcoming spaces. Together, these efforts reflect our commitment to putting people first by designing programs, spaces, and collections that are shaped by, and for, the diverse community we serve.
Staff posing at Crow Shield Lodge
A young boy assembles a LEGO robotics set
Tech Adventures Begin Here
We’ve been exploring ways to transform the smaller program room at the John M. Harper Branch into a welcoming, intergenerational tech space. Through a six-month project, staff gathered input from the community, students, and local STEM groups to understand how the space could best support learning and creativity.
The resulting roadmap outlines potential uses and considerations, with decisions planned for 2026. This work helps advance digital equity by creating more opportunities for people of all ages to access, explore, and build confidence with technology.
“It’s warm, welcoming, and a wonderful spot to read, learn, or just relax. The staff are friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist with anything you need. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the selection of books and resources is excellent.”
Goal No. 3
Wellbeing
People thrive because they are connected to the library.
Front entrance to the Administration building at Parkwood Seniors' Community
Meeting People Where They Are
We continued to find new ways to connect with community members in 2025, especially those who may find it harder to visit our branches in person. With a focus on reducing social isolation, we’ve been reimagining what library service looks like beyond our walls.
We expanded our popular Tech Connect service, adding more staff and offering support in additional locations. With an increase of 41% in the number of Tech Connect appointments, this growth means more people can build digital skills, stay connected with loved ones, and access online services with confidence. Monthly Tech Connect visits to Parkwood Seniors Community brought hands-on tech help directly to older adults, making it easier to access digital tools in a familiar, welcoming environment.
Aging Creatively, Living Fully
The Creative Aging Expo, launched in 2025, is an inspiring event that highlights the vital role creativity and social connection play in supporting wellbeing for older adults. Bringing together organizations from across the Region of Waterloo, the Expo showcased programs, services, and opportunities that promote artistic expression, lifelong learning and meaningful community engagement.
Through interactive exhibits and experiences, attendees discovered hands-on ways to nurture their creativity and enhance their overall sense of wellbeing, which are key contributors to healthy, fulfilling aging.
Two members of the Older Adult Advisory Group greet participants at the Creative Aging Expo
“I come to this library all the time lately. I do my work here and sometimes I just sit here. This is a wonderful place where I feel warm and welcomed. I look up at all those words on the wall of the courtyard [at the John M. Harper Branch] and those words describe all the feelings I have when I visit this place.”
Goal No. 4
Future Readiness
People build a more sustainable community and navigate the technologies of tomorrow because their library is future-ready.
Building AI Literacy for the Future
At WPL, we’ve been exploring how artificial intelligence is shaping our world and how we can help our community make sense of it. In 2025, we launched our WPL Futures Lab, bringing together staff from across the system to think ahead about the role of libraries in an AI-driven future. This group is building skills in strategic foresight and scenario planning so we can better anticipate change and support our community as technology evolves.
We’ve also brought conversations about AI directly into the community through programs and workshops. From exploring how AI tools work to discussing their risks and opportunities, these sessions create space for people of all ages to learn, ask questions, and think critically about the technology shaping our lives. Many of these programs include STEM-focused activities and partnerships that make learning about AI engaging and accessible.
The Lifelong Learning Manager at WPL discusses the future of AI at the library during Staff Development Day 2025.
Goal No. 5
A Place For All
People learn, share ideas and build connections because the library provides safe, accessible and beautiful spaces where they can gather.
Accessibility in Action
We took a deep dive into accessibility across the library system. A diverse group of staff volunteered to participate in a wide-ranging accessibility audit, examining everything from our physical spaces and technology to programs and communications. With guidance from accessibility consultants, and input from library board members, this work is already shaping a staff-led action plan to make our services more inclusive and welcoming for all.
A staff member sits on a stool to shelve books
A close up of ceramic flowers and leaves that make up BLOOM, an art instillation at the Main Library
Art Around Every Corner
We’re always looking for meaningful ways to connect our community with art, culture, and the many stories that shape our shared human experience – and this year brought some exciting progress.
A highlight was our growing collaboration with the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery. Together, we unveiled two new public art pieces at our Main Library, celebrating creativity right in the heart of our space. Building on that partnership, visitors can now also enjoy rotating exhibits throughout the year, featuring unique selections from the gallery’s permanent collection. It’s a fresh experience with every visit and a chance to encounter art up close, right where you already gather.
Shaping the Future of Our Spaces
Waterloo Public Library continues to imagine and plan for the future of our spaces, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of our community both today and for years to come. At the McCormick Branch, work moved forward through detailed design and closure planning as we take exciting steps toward bringing a revitalized, expanded branch to life. At the same time, behind the scenes at the Main Library, staff collaborated closely with City of Waterloo partners to launch the next phase of its renewal, including selecting an architecture firm to lead a comprehensive feasibility study.
McCormick Branch Exterior
“My favourite place to work is the new laptop bar overlooking the parking lot [at the Main Library]. A nice view and lots of space to spread out. Thank you!”