Ajax Public Library Board

Ajax Public Library Board Statement Condemning Anti-Black Racism

In response to the global Black Lives Matter anti-racism protests of recent weeks, the Ajax Public Library Board condemns any form of anti-Black racism and stands in solidarity with the Black community in the Town of Ajax. For too long, these residents, our neighbours, have been deeply hurt by microaggressions, racism, police brutality, and social injustice.

We condemn all forms of racism, white supremacy, and all systems of oppression which continue to deny these citizens the right to equitable treatment and justice in today's society. Recent events in the United States, and in Canada, have clearly demonstrated that Black members of our society are more frequently at risk of mistreatment by law enforcement agencies. We acknowledge that systemic and institutionalized racism exists in both our local and national communities and, as such, it can no longer be ignored and demands change.

As a public institution that supports the critical values of inclusion, equality and free speech, it is imperative that Ajax Public Library continues to hear and embrace the Black members of our community. We will continue to provide open, free, and equitable access to information that supports learning and understanding.

We will strive to replace ignorance with knowledge, intolerance with compassion, and inequity with justice within our community. We accept the shared civic, social, and moral responsibility to do what we must to eradicate systemic racism towards Black people through transparent accountability and quantifiable action. As the Library’s governing body, we commit to regular and recurring consultations with the Black community to inform our generative thinking and policy development.

During these emotional and difficult times, we shall not shy away from difficult conversations or uncomfortable dialogue. We will ensure that Ajax Public Library provides opportunities for intellectual freedom and civic discord.  Most of all, we will listen. No rewarding conversation can exist without genuine understanding and true compassion.

Additionally, the Ajax Public Library Board fully endorses the Canadian Urban Libraries Council's statement on Race and Social Equity. 

Ajax Public Library Strategic Master Plan 2023 - 2028

The Library Strategic Master Plan guides decisions of the Library Board and Library Staff. It revitalizes our Vision and Mission, states our core values, and provides a set of Actions to address priorities for Library space and services.

Ajax Public Library Board Position Statements

Children and Teen Rights in the Library

Ajax Public Library welcomes and encourages children and youth of all ages to enjoy Library services, programs, collections, and spaces. See our Policies and Publications page for the full position statement.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Ajax Public Library's commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is unwavering, and the Library will aim to be a space where everyone feels welcomed and valued. See our Policies and Publications page for the full position statement.

Intellectual Freedom

Ajax Public Library will uphold the right of all individuals to access knowledge, information, and ideas through Library materials, resources, and services. See our Policies and Publications page for the full position statement.