Lincoln and Pelham, ON – The Lincoln and Pelham Public Library Boards are pleased to announce that they have begun to explore the possibility of merging the two library systems. In the spirit of
creating efficiencies and streamlining administrative functions and expenditures, this potential merger
would provide enhanced delivery of library services for our two communities and dedicate more
resources to programs and materials.
The Lincoln and Pelham public libraries are a natural fit for sharing services, as the two are original
members of the Libraries in Niagara Cooperative (LiNC). With a long history of partnership and
working together for the betterment of our communities, our two Library Boards serve communities
that are similar, and our staff have comparable work cultures and top-notch customer service styles.
As members of LiNC, they already share an integrated library catalogue system, which removes one
of the most costly and complicated steps for sharing collections and a potential hurdle for merger.
A significant benefit of combining the administration of two smaller public libraries is the opportunity to increase buying power and decrease duplication. For example, the amalgamated public library would
have one CEO – currently, Pelham and Lincoln boards each have their own CEO – resulting in
reduced spending on administrative expenditures with the savings able to go back to serving the
community.
“Improving library services for the Pelham community is an ongoing priority for the Pelham Public
Library Board,” said Nicole Nolan, Pelham Public Library Board Chair. “A partnership between the
Lincoln and Pelham libraries is an effective way to make more efficient use of funds, increase access
to library resources, and increase services for our community members.”
“Lincoln Public Library looks forward to working with our Pelham partners to create a future vision for
public library services that would provide enhanced benefits to both our communities,” said Donna
Burton, Chair of the Lincoln Public Library Board.
The first step of sharing services is establishing an agreement between both municipalities that
outlines board composition and financial commitments. Once this step is completed, the boards will
continue to work together to iron out details and seek community feedback as they work toward
combining policies and staff into one organization.
For more information, please contact:
Julie Andrews
Chief Executive Officer
Lincoln Public Library
905.563.7014
andrews@lincoln.library.on.ca
Amy Guilmette
Acting Chief Executive Officer
Pelham Public Library
905.892.6443
aguilmette@pelhamlibrary.on.ca
Click here to see a list of Frequently Asked Questions regarding this announcement.