The Guelph Public Library’s 2026 operating and capital budget has been approved by City Council representing a 16 percent operating increase as the Library prepares to move to its new Central Library facility at the end of 2026.
Following a request from Council to revisit the Library’s original budget request, the Library Board reduced the 2026 operating budget by $594,800, adjusting timelines for staff expansions that support the New Central Library. These increases will be carried forward into the 2027 budget. The Library’s final approved operating budget is just over $14.3 million.
Capital funding for 2026 is set at $300,000 which includes maintenance for the current Main Library and updates to branches. The Board removed an IT infrastructure project, reducing the capital budget by $500,000.
Key budget drivers for the Library include inflation, onboarding of municipal services and maintenance for the new Central Library, and the Council-ratification of our new collective agreement.
The Library expects future budget increases to stabilize to 3-4 per cent by 2027.
Recent investments in the new facility, alongside archival staff expansions, has attracted growth already. In early November, the Library announced that Robert Munsch has donated his personal archives to the Library for use and display. The gift has potential to impact growth in tourism, business, and education and would not be possible without previous Board and Council investments.
“The Library is preparing to embark on the biggest change since our founding in 1883, moving to a building that doubles our Library system in response to community growth,” says Dan Atkins, Library CEO. “This budget supports this transformative change as we build future-focused libraries that empower our community and beyond.”
“The Library Board remains fully committed to strong stewardship and a smooth transition as the Library evolves in this once in a generation change,” says Bang Ly, Board Chair. “The new Central Library is built to meet the needs of a growing Guelph and as Council confirms the Library’s budget, the Board and CEO will deliver on this budget responsibly while continuing to offer an inclusive, sustainable space for people to engage their curiosity and create community.”
Media contact
Dan Atkins, CEO
Department, Guelph Public Library
548-855-0390
datkins@guelphpl.ca