Photo: OPL CEO Danielle McDonald, OPL Board Chair Tim Tierney, and FOPLA President Chantal Cloutier at the 2017 cheque presentation.

We couldn’t be happier to announce that in 2017 we donated $360,000 to the Ottawa Public Library (OPL), all thanks to the support of our loyal customers and dedicated volunteers.

$360,000 is our largest single donation to OPL since FOPLA was created through amalgamation in 2003. It also means that since 2003, we’ve donated more than $3 million to the Ottawa Public Library to enhance their programs and services. So all you Ottawa library friends out there, give yourself a pat on the back!

FOPLA raises funds through the sale of used books in 28 branches of the Ottawa Public Library, and suffice it to say our volunteers worked very hard last year. Sales from our volunteer-run bookstores and specialty sales all contribute to the donation we make to OPL every year.

Funds donated by FOPLA are used by OPL to purchase materials, equipment, and support programming not covered by their municipal budget. Through their programming and services, OPL promotes literacy and lifelong learning in Ottawa, and supports individuals in all areas of our community.

Some highlights of items purchased by OPL with FOPLA funds in 2017 include:

  • Sponsored OPL’s Canada150 Dominion Day Strawberry Social event

  • Sponsored OPL’s 2017 Awesome Authors Youth Writing Contest

  • Sponsored OPL’s October Customer Appreciation ‘Book Bag Blitz’ event

  • Furniture refresh at the Blackburn Hamlet and North Gloucester branches as part of their recent renovations.

  • Shelving upgrades at the Carlingwood and Hazeldean branches.

  • Programming about the residential school experience as part of OPL’s response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

If you’d like to help contribute to FOPLA, there are many ways to get involved. Volunteer, become a member, donate used books, or give financially today to help us support Ottawa’s public library system for years to come.