Markham Public Library Invites Community Feedback for New Plan

Markham Public Library (MPL) is seeking community input to shape its new strategic plan, with an online survey open until October 25, 2023. The library aims to gather essential feedback to guide its activities for the next three to five years. The survey, which is available in simplified Chinese, traditional Chinese, and Farsi, includes an incentive for participants to enter a draw for a Samsung Galaxy Tablet after the survey concludes.

The initiative comes as MPL strives to enhance its services and better meet the needs of its diverse community. Diane Macklin, the library’s community engagement director, emphasized the importance of public feedback in understanding how to effectively serve the residents of Markham. “We exist to serve the community, so the only way to really understand and know how to serve them is to ask,” she stated.

Community Engagement Efforts

In preparation for the strategic plan, the library has already engaged with over 10,000 residents through various focus groups and surveys conducted throughout 2025. Additionally, MPL performed an environmental scan of the community and held town hall meetings with its staff. Following the survey’s closure, library officials will analyze the feedback over the coming months to finalize the strategic plan, with a target publication date set for spring 2026.

Macklin noted several themes that emerged from initial feedback, including the need to improve connections among library users, provide skills training and access to technology, and increase family-oriented activities, particularly those catering to older adults.

Adapting to Changing Needs

The library’s last strategic plan was developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, which imposed unique guidelines that are now obsolete. Macklin pointed out that the evolving technological landscape and global events necessitate a new approach. “Everything is moving so quickly in terms of technology and global events that it’s hard to imagine what the library or community will look like in 2030,” she said. She stressed the importance of creating a strategic plan that remains adaptable to future changes.

In addition to the survey, residents can continue providing feedback by engaging with library staff, participating in quarterly surveys, and following MPL on social media. For more details on the strategic planning process, visit markhampubliclibrary.ca/stratplan.

Through these efforts, MPL aims to create a dynamic framework that reflects the community’s aspirations while ensuring it remains responsive to the evolving needs of Markham’s residents.