Valuing the County of Brant Public Library

Media Release- January 16, 2025

County of Brant Public Library Delivers Over $15 Million in Value to the Community 

Paris, ON – The County of Brant Public Library (CBPL) provided an economic value of $15,659,046.80 to the community in 2023, according to an in-depth study just released. That equates to a return on investment of $6.37 for every municipal dollar spent on the Library.

The report, “Valuing the County of Brant Public Library,” studied all aspects of library services, from storytimes to ebooks to physical spaces, and determined a dollar value for each category.  The calculated Social Return on Investment (SROI) translates to an impressive $396.69 per resident or $1,059.62 per household.

“Library services are usually provided free of charge, but that doesn’t mean they are without cost or value,” said Kelly Bernstein, Library CEO. “Libraries are funded by the tax dollars of local residents and businesses, and these findings affirm that every dollar invested in the County of Brant Public Library returns significant value, not only enhancing quality of life but also driving economic and social benefits.”

Methodology for the study was developed by the NORDIK Institute, Lakehead University, and the Ontario Library Service. Comparative market values from the private sector were applied to library usage statistics in seven key areas: education, culture, inclusion and well-being, entertainment and leisure, economic development, civic engagement, and space.

“This report underscores the role CBPL plays in enriching our community andprovides valuable insight into how we can continue to meet the needs of Brant residents.” said Fred Gladding, Library Board Chair, “It keeps us accountable to our funders, the taxpayers, and shows that investment into the library yields very real dividends.”

The full Valuing County of Brant Public Library Report is available for public review on the Library’s website and at all library branches.

Questions or comments? Connect with: 
Kelly Bernstein  MLIS, MPA | Chief Executive Officer
County of Brant Public Library 
Email   |   519-442-2433  

Download the Report

Click here to download the full PDF report.