The Ottawa Public Library (OPL) is undergoing a significant rebranding effort, positioning itself as a 'third space' for the community, according to its 2025 end-of-year report. This move comes as physical book rentals and in-person visits continue to decline across its 33 branches.
The rebrand, officially unveiled in January, aims to go beyond visual identity, as stated by Orléans East-Cumberland Councillor Matthew Luloff, who also serves as the OPL board chair. The core values of the library now emphasize building community connections beyond traditional book lending.
Key Statistics from the 2025 Report
The report reveals a mixed picture of library usage. In 2025, OPL branches recorded 3.5 million in-person visits, a one per cent decrease from 2024. Physical items borrowed also fell by four per cent to 7.9 million. However, digital engagement surged dramatically.
Website visits reached 13.8 million, a 19 per cent increase from the previous year. Borrowed eBooks and eAudiobooks also rose by nine per cent to 3.2 million. The most notable growth was in wireless services, where 'self-directed' tools saw a 119 per cent increase, with 1.3 million wireless logins. This includes new quick-access digital stations placed in branches for faster item searches.
Fostering In-Person Connections
Despite the rise in remote activity, the OPL continued to invest in in-person services. Staff delivered 721 one-on-one appointments, both in person and virtually, with the majority taking place in person. The Info Service handled over 51,000 phone calls, 4,399 chats, and more than 5,000 emails.
Programs, workshops, and events attracted 202,638 attendees, reflecting the library's commitment to community engagement. The OPL also continued work on the new central branch, Ādisōke, at 555 Albert Street, though its opening has been delayed from summer 2026 without a clear reason.
The rebrand and strategic focus on being a 'third space' aim to adapt to changing user habits while maintaining the library's role as a vital community hub.
