Since I can remember walking, the Library has been part of my life.
For Barbara, some of her earliest memories are of Saturday visits to London Public Library with her father. Later, as a shy young person, she returned almost every day on her own.
Books offered a refuge. The Library became a place where she felt safe, welcomed and free to explore.
“It’s like a home away from home,” she says.
That sense of belonging has stayed with Barbara throughout her life. She has lived in the Hamilton Road neighbourhood for nearly 30 years, building connections, helping neighbours and volunteering to preserve and share the area’s history. Through it all, the Library has remained a constant.
Barbara sees the same possibilities she once found at the Library being discovered by a new generation. Children gather at their neighbourhood branch after school to read, join programs, spend time with caring staff and simply enjoy being kids.
Kids have to have hope,” she says. “They have to have a space. They have to have somewhere to go, and libraries are the best place.
Every Londoner has their own relationship with the Library.
It might begin with a childhood storytime, a first Library card or the book that helped someone feel less alone. It might grow through afternoons spent studying, help with a job search, access to technology, or a welcoming place to meet others and feel connected.
For some, the Library is part of a weekly routine. For others, it is there during a turning point or at a time when few other resources are available. In ways both large and small, the Library helps people read, learn, create, connect and belong.
Continuing What Matters
When Barbara and her husband talked about the legacy they hoped to leave, London Public Library felt like a natural choice.
“We discussed what we were going to do with it when we are gone, and the Library was right there.”
Barbara has chosen to include a gift to London Public Library in her Will. For her, the decision is not about making a grand gesture. It is about helping something that has mattered throughout her life continue to make a difference for others.
Think about what would benefit the most people,” she says. “Think of who you’re helping and how far it’s going to reach.
Many people assume that legacy giving is only for those with considerable wealth, or that it is something to think about much later in life. In fact, a gift of any size can become part of a lasting collective impact. It is one way to help future generations enjoy the opportunities and sense of belonging the Library provides today.
Barbara hopes her gift will help ensure that her great-grandchildren, who are just beginning to read, and generations of Londoners still to come will always have a welcoming place to discover new ideas, build confidence and find connection.
As long as there’s a Library, there’s hope.
What Is Your Library Story?
You may not be thinking about your Will or the legacy you hope to leave. But perhaps Barbara’s story brings to mind your own connection with the Library, or the role you hope it will continue to play in our community.
There are many ways to be part of the Library’s future. You can use and share Library resources, attend programs, introduce someone to their neighbourhood branch, volunteer, donate, or simply speak up for the value of free and welcoming public libraries.
If including London Public Library in your Will is something you are considering, we would be pleased to provide more information and answer your questions. There is no expectation or obligation. To learn more, contact:
Michael Ciccone, CEO and Chief Librarian, Michael.Ciccone@lpl.ca, 519-661-5143
or Christine Walker, Fund Development, Christine.Walker@lpl.ca, 519-661-5114
If you have already included London Public Library in your Will, we hope you will let us know. We would be honoured to thank you, learn what matters most to you and understand the impact you hope your future gift will make.
Upcoming Will and Estate Planning Workshops
Make a Will Workshops
Learn the importance of having an up-to-date will and the key considerations to keep in mind to best provide for loved ones. Presented in partnership with the Ontario Bar Association.
- Bostwick Branch Library, November 5 at 6pm
- Masonville Branch Library, November 10 at 6pm
- Cherryhill Branch Library, November 12 at 10am
- Jalna Branch Library, November 18 at 2:30pm
- Sherwood Branch Library, November 20 at 2:30pm
- Central Library, November 24 at 2:30pm
You can register for these workshops to receive a reminder email, or simply drop in.
Estate Planning 101
This information session will cover the essentials of wills, powers of attorney, and other key documents to help you protect your assets and loved ones. In partnership with Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Cemetery.
- East London Branch Library, September 24 at 6:30pm
Drop in.
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Photo at top: Barb (left) sits with Rachel (right), the Supervisor of Crouch Branch Library in the children's area of Crouch Branch Library.