Library CEO Disappointed by Administration’s Rejection
Richard Togman, CEO of the Thunder Bay Public Library, expressed disappointment with the city administration’s suggestion to the council regarding a new library. The administration has rejected plans for a centralized library at the Intercity Shopping Centre and has recommended that the city council do the same.
A master facilities plan for the new library, released last month, outlines an option to maintain the status quo by keeping the four existing branches throughout the city.
“From the library’s perspective, it’s disappointing that administration is looking at this from the narrowest possible lens,” said Togman. “They’re looking at the worst-case scenario financial outcome.”
He emphasized that the library is not just a budget item but is core to the community, playing a crucial role in strengthening social bonds and improving economic outcomes for lower-income families.
Togman argues that moving to the new model is essential and less expensive than maintaining the status quo.
The library’s 2024 Master Facilities Plan presents two additional options: building a new library while keeping the Waverly and Mary JL Black branches and potentially divesting the Brodie branch, or closing the County Park branch.
“The city is basically turning its back on the library system, saying it’s not worth funding to modernize and provide these services to the community, and really not listening to community input over the last two years.”
Currently, the library operates with less than half the public library space recommended by national standards.
Togman pointed out that the administration has ignored many critical factors. Fifty-six local organizations, including business and community groups, social service agencies, and health organizations, have all called for the creation of a central library. Additionally, a major public survey revealed that citizens are willing to pay for this new facility.
“We’re making the upstream investments that council keeps saying they want to make, and if this doesn’t look like one of those upstream investments – that helps youth, seniors and low-income families – then I don’t know what does.”
