Chatham-Kent Public Library (CKPL) achieved a successful accreditation audit for all 11 branches under the guidance of a peer audit team from the Ontario Public Library Guidelines Monitoring and Accreditation Council.
Library officials said in order to achieve accreditation, auditors review 179 standards: measuring governance, access, partnerships, planning, personnel, collections, facilities, and many more library aspects.
Of the approximately 265 public library boards across Ontario and 45 First Nations public libraries, only 36 (11%) are currently accredited.
With this audit, CKPL will enjoy accreditation status for the next five years, library officials say
Achieving accreditation was an important strategic goal for CKPL to demonstrate its social value.
The accreditation process ensures a library’s services meet the highest standards, including offering accessible and inclusive spaces that are easy to navigate and allow everyone to feel welcome.
To be successful, a library needs to regularly consult with the community it serves as well as routinely coordinate with community partners to continue to improve services.
Accreditation status confirms CKPL as a strong service hub, library officials say.
CKPL will be recognized for their achievement at the Chatham-Kent Council Meeting on Monday, November 27.
