Ottawa Public Library

We build community and transform lives. 

At Ottawa Public Library our mission is to inspire learning, spark curiosity, and connect people. With 34 Branches and a service area of 2,700 square kilometers, our services reach Ottawa’s residents in all parts of the city. OPL is the largest bilingual (English/French) public library system in North America, and one of the largest urban public library systems in Canada, serving more than 1 million residents. 

We inspire learning, spark curiosity, and connect people. 

By reflecting the communities we serve, OPL is able to provide exceptional public service to our customers. Our organization welcomes diversity and strives to make each employee feel included. In addition to the work that is done in our Branches, we provide career opportunities in selecting and acquiring materials, planning literacy and learning events, transporting materials between locations, and providing services directly to vulnerable and homebound customers. OPL also employs individuals in traditional functions of communications, human resources, finance, and information technology. 

  • Woman at the library standing next to book bundles for kids

    Employee Stories

    "I feel so proud and privileged to share my passion for children’s programming in a library setting. I love meeting new people every day and using library resources to meet their individual needs. One of the best parts of my job is the fact that I can help connect people with an awesome new series or piece of media. I love when customers come back to tell me about their newest OPL loan!"

     - Katherine K., Children’s Programs and Public Service Assistant 

  • Woman at the library smiling and holding a book on her hand

    Employee Stories

    "I love the diversity of both the staff and the patrons at the OPL. It is important to me to work in a place where all people are made to feel welcome. I also really like helping people with their technology questions, especially seniors. I believe that our assistance makes a big difference in people’s lives. "

    - Sonja M., Public Service Assistant