Executive Brief

Chief Librarian/Chief Executive Officer
Greater Victoria Public Library

April 2026

About Greater Victoria Public Library

The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) is a public library system serving Victoria, British Columbia, and the surrounding Capital Regional District. Established in 1889, GVPL has evolved into a comprehensive, multi-branch system delivering accessible library services to a diverse and growing population. Through a network of physical branches and a robust digital platform, the organization provides free access to information, resources, and community spaces that support education, literacy, and social connection.

GVPL serves approximately 300,000–380,000 residents across multiple municipalities and Indigenous communities, positioning it as a key civic institution within the region.

Vision, Purpose & Values

GVPL’s strategic direction is guided by a clear vision, purpose, and set of values that inform its role within the community.

Vision
Your place to connect, discover, and imagine.

Purpose
We build community and support literacy and lifelong learning by providing free access to information, space, tools and expertise.

Values

GVPL’s work is guided by the following values:

  • Collaboration: We engage and work in partnership to meet community needs.
  • Inclusiveness: We respect diversity and provide open access for all in welcoming physical and virtual spaces.
  • Service Excellence: We provide a high-quality library service that is responsive to the community
  • Innovation: We commit to continuous improvement in library service delivery.
  • Intellectual Freedom: We uphold the Canadian Federation of Library Association’s position on intellectual freedom and the equitable access to and exchange of information, ideas, and creativity.
  • Public Accountability: We make transparent decisions that are fiscally sound and measurable.
  • Sustainability: We deliver reliable and relevant services and remain resilient in times of change.

Operations and Service Delivery

GVPL operates a network of 12 branch libraries, complemented by an extensive virtual branch that provides digital collections, research tools, and online programming. The system’s physical locations are distributed across the Greater Victoria area to support access for residents in urban, suburban, and neighbouring communities. Operating within a municipal model where facilities are provided by participating municipalities, GVPL works in close partnership to deliver services across a diverse and regionally coordinated footprint.

The library’s collections include books, e-books, audiobooks, periodicals, multimedia materials, and local history archives. In addition to traditional lending services, GVPL offers access to digital resources, databases, and online publications, enabling users to engage with information remotely.

Programs and services extend beyond collections to include workshops, literacy initiatives, cultural programming, and community events designed for all age groups. These offerings reinforce GVPL’s role as both an educational resource and a community hub.

Community Role and Impact

GVPL plays a central role in fostering literacy, lifelong learning, and community cohesion. The organization provides inclusive, barrier-free access to information, technology, and shared spaces, supporting individuals across varying socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.

Its branches function as community gathering spaces - often described as the “community’s living room” - where residents can study, collaborate, attend programs, and access essential services. GVPL’s emphasis on creativity, self-expression, and knowledge-sharing contributes to social connectivity and civic engagement across the region.

The library system also acknowledges and operates on the traditional territories of local First Nations, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and cultural awareness in its service delivery.

 

Strategic Priorities

GVPL’s current strategic plan is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and focuses on the following priorities:

  • Invest in People and Culture: Recognizing that people are GVPL’s greatest asset, we invest in workforce planning, staff development, supports, systems, and organizational culture.
  • Ground our Work in Trust and Respect: Acting on community input and expert advice, we increase inclusion and safety in our spaces, services, and relationships.
  • Collaborate for Shared Success: We contribute to long-term planning and partnerships that support sustainable communities.
  • Build Digial Literacy and Access: We expand access to information, space, tools, and expertise while supporting evolving digital needs.
  • Grow and Demonstrate our Impact: Through our Regional Service Delivery Plan, we enhance services and spaces while measuring and communicating impact to support sustained funding.

For more information, please see GVPL’s Strategic Plan:https://issuu.com/greatervictoriapubliclibrary/docs/gvpl_strategic_plan_2025_3363081033b45b

Governance & Leadership

The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) is governed by a Board of Trustees that provides joint oversight for the management, maintenance, improvement, operation, and control of the library systems across the region.

The GVPL Board serves ten municipalities within the Greater Victoria area and is comprised of 19 members, including municipal council representatives and citizen appointees. The Chief Librarian/CEO is the sole employee of the Board of Trustees and is accountable to the Board for the overall leadership and management of the organization.

The organization is supported by an executive leadership team responsible for implementing strategic priorities, managing operations, and advancing service innovation across both physical and digital platforms.

Senior Leadership Team

Board of Trustees 

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