The Bracebridge Library Board wishes to express its support for the positions advanced by the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries (FOPL), the Canadian Federation of Library Associations (CFLA-FCAB), and library organizations across Canada regarding Alberta’s proposed Bill 28 and its implications for public library governance, intellectual freedom, and patron privacy.
Public libraries are built upon principles of local governance, professional expertise, equitable access to information, and community accountability. Across Canada, public library boards and trained library professionals work collaboratively to develop collections and services that support intellectual freedom in communities while upholding established professional standards and legislative responsibilities.
The Bracebridge Library Board shares the concerns raised by provincial and national library organizations regarding provisions within Bill 28 that would:
- Reduce the autonomy of local library boards;
- Introduce increased provincial oversight into local collection and governance decisions;
- Create the potential for political interference in public library operations; and
- Raise concerns regarding patron privacy and intellectual freedom.
The Board believes that public trust in libraries is built through transparency, professional accountability, strong local governance, and evidence-based decision-making. Libraries must remain welcoming public spaces where individuals can freely explore ideas, access information, and engage with diverse perspectives without fear of censorship or unnecessary government intrusion.
The Bracebridge Library Board further recognizes the important role that local library boards play in representing and responding to their unique communities. Public libraries function best when governance decisions remain rooted in local accountability and informed professional practice.
The Board stands in solidarity with library organizations, boards, staff, and communities across Alberta and Canada in supporting the principles of:
- Intellectual freedom;
- Freedom to read;
- Patron privacy;
- Local governance; and
- Equitable public access to information.
The Bracebridge Library Board encourages continued dialogue grounded in evidence, respect, and community accountability, and supports the call for reconsideration of the provisions within Bill 28 that apply to Alberta’s Libraries Act.