Public Library Guidelines Ontario Public Library Guidelines , a developmental tool for small, medium and county libraries, were developed to improve the quality of public library service across the province. Guidelines can provide a framework for library development, assistance to public library planning processes, improved accountability to taxpayers, equity of access to information for the public and secured funding. To earn a certificate of accreditation, a library undergoes an audit by its peers which considers some 122 guideline points dealing with subjects ranging from policy to planning, resources and services.
Accreditation is voluntary.
Accredited public libraries not only demonstrate that they meet provincial standards for public library services, they also act as leaders in raising the level of public library service across the province. The Minister of Citizenship, Culture and Recreation, and the Chair of the SDC sign Certificates of Accreditation. Accredited public libraries also receive plaques. The Accreditation is in place for 5 years. The SDC established an Ontario Public Library Guidelines Monitoring and Accreditation Council to monitor the continuing effectiveness of the Guidelines and make revisions as required.