What is FOPL?The Federation of Ontario Public Libraries (FOPL) represents Ontario’s over 400 public library systems exceeding 1,000 branches in virtually every Ontario community.FOPL is governed by a 23-member Board made up of representatives from the following caucuses:First Nations Caucus – 2 membersFrancophone Caucus – 2 membersLarge Urban Caucus – 6 membersNorthern Caucus – 2 membersRural Caucus – 2 membersSmall / Medium Caucus – 4 membersToronto (no caucus required) – 4 membersThe Executive Director of the Federation of Ontario Public Libraries sits on the board as a non-voting member.Each caucus is responsible for electing representatives to the Board for a 3-year term of office. These memberships are staggered annually to ensure continuity for the Federation. Once elected, Board members are expected to act in the interests of members as a whole.The Board meets every three months to discuss the business of the Federation. During the pandemic FOPL has met for shorter times, but more often in order to best support our public libraries during the pandemic. The Annual General Meeting is held during the Ontario Library Association Super Conference in Toronto.FOPL’s strategic focus includes Advocacy, Marketing, and Research & Development. These strategic roles are defined below:AdvocacyAs ONE VOICE, FOPL ensures issues facing public libraries are presented in a consistent manner benefiting all public libraries across Ontario. FOPL provides various levels of government with a view of public libraries as a united, relevant and integral component for economic and community development worthy of strong and continued support.MarketingTo market and promote the services provided by public libraries in Ontario, to highlight the economic and social value public libraries contribute to the development of our communities, and to strengthen the support of funding bodies and the community at large.Research and DevelopmentEngage in research that provides insight into present and future environments, issues and developments facing public libraries. This reliable data can be used by public libraries as a base for strategic and operational planning and decision making, and to support advocacy efforts and marketing.