Middlesex County Library Board Meeting Highlights – October 27, 2026
Library Board Highlights is an informal summary of selected actions taken by the Middlesex Library Board at business meetings. The Library Board Highlights are not an official record of Board proceedings. To view official agendas and minutes, please visit Middlesex Meetings and Minutes.
2027 Draft Library Board Budget
The Middlesex County Library Board reviewed its draft 2027 operating and capital budget, which supports the continued delivery of library and EarlyON services across the county. The proposed net budget totals $7.4 million, representing an increase of $106,091 (1.5%) over 2026. The draft budget focuses on creating exceptional experiences for patrons, expanding the Library’s reach, and supporting lifelong learning.
Key investments supporting the Library’s strategic priorities include staffing adjustments, expanded branch and Indigenous-led programming, collection development, and meeting the rising costs of digital resources, subscriptions, and material processing.
The capital budget includes technology replacements such as new public and staff computers, iPads, and network infrastructure, and renovations at the Ilderton and Dorchester branches.
The EarlyON budget maintains provincial funding levels while preserving enhanced programming hours introduced in 2026 through continued Middlesex County support. The draft budget will be presented to Middlesex County’s Budget Committee in December.
See the 2027 Draft Library Board Budget report for more information.
Busy fall for Middlesex County Library
The latest Library Activity Report showcases a busy fall season at the Library. Programming highlights include PD Day Firefighter Visits at the Dorchester and Glencoe Branches on October 26, a jigsaw puzzle swap at the Lucan branch from October 26 to 31, Halloween Storytime at the Strathroy Branch on October 30, and Poppy making at the Dorchester branch on November 2.
Library staff are currently reviewing the draft Facility Master Plan, which will guide the future of library services and facility improvements. On November 3, all branches will be closed to the public while staff take part in the annual Staff Development Day, which will focus on collection management, emerging technologies, and health and safety.
For more information, read the Library Activities Report.
Summer Reading Program Sees Strong Growth Across Middlesex County
Middlesex County Library’s 2026 Summer at the Library program attracted more than 3000 participants across all age groups, helping residents to stay engaged with reading throughout the summer. Registration increased among children, teens, and adults, with more than 2,100 children taking part in the annual reading challenge.
New program elements helped drive participation, including collectible “reading buddies” for children and Library Quest, a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired reading challenge for teens. Adult participation also continued to grow through a summer reading contest and prize draw.
The reading program was complemented by a wide range of activities and events at library branches, including arts and crafts workshops, wildlife presentations, active games, author visits, and opportunities to connect with local camps and community groups. Programming highlights include natural lip balm making, polymer jewelry workshops, and Croc charm creation at the Dorchester branch, while the Glencoe branch offered citrus-print tea towels and a jellyfish paint night. Participants in Mount Brydges created DIY stickers, and Ilderton explored miniature coastal scenes through shoebox seascapes.
The successful summer program highlights the Library’s ongoing commitment to literacy, lifelong learning, and creating engaging experiences for residents of all ages.
Read the Summer at the Library 2026 report for more information.
The Legislative Services Department maintains the official record for all County government proceedings.
For more information please contact: @email