2025 ANNUAL REPORT | DEPARTMENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS | HUMAN RESOURCES
LIBRARY | DEPARTMENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS | 2025 ANNUAL REPORT
Human Resources
Library
The Human Resources Department supports a respectful, inclusive, and high-performing workplace by providing services that help attract, develop, and retain the City’s most valuable resource—its people. The department delivers core functions such as recruitment, labour relations, health and safety, training and development, and compensation and benefits administration. It also plays a strategic role in fostering positive employee relations and supporting organizational growth through collaboration, guidance, and citywide initiatives.
The New Westminster Public Library supports lifelong learning and literacy through print and digital collections, information assistance, and a wide range of programs for adults, teens and children. The Library is committed to ensuring that New Westminster residents are connected to technology and digital information through free public internet stations, Wi-Fi, and an extensive collection of digital resources. In both our Uptown and Queensborough branches, the library provides a safe and welcoming space to read, study, plug-in, learn, and be part of the community.
Recruited key new positions to support the Strategic Priorities Plan and strengthen leadership, employee engagement, diversity, equity, inclusion, anti-racism, and workplace wellness initiatives. Expanded DEIAR 101 training across the organization following a successful pilot, with future training initiatives focused on inclusive workplace practices and difficult conversations. Designed and launched a new Leadership Forum model to support shared learning, alignment, and relationship-building among people leaders across the organization. Strengthened recruitment and community connections by participating in local job fairs and outreach events. Developed and updated employee policies and workforce planning initiatives, including implementation of a new Remote Work Policy and related agreements.
Began planning for replacement of the City’s time entry system to improve HR and payroll processes and efficiency. Initiated development of a centralized Learning and Development framework to improve access, consistency, and tracking of employee training across the organization. Advanced collective bargaining and labour relations initiatives through collaboration with IAFF and the start of negotiations with CUPE and IBEW. Began development of the HR Strategic Plan 2026–2030 to strengthen the department’s ability to support a responsive, inclusive, and high-performing organization. Advanced employee engagement initiatives through planning for the citywide Your Voice 2026 employee survey to better understand and improve the employee experience.
Introduced a Community Puzzle Table at the Main Branch, creating a welcoming shared space for patrons to connect, collaborate, and relax. Added a Community Chess Table to encourage informal social interaction, intergenerational connection, and recreational learning within the Library. Opened an Interfaith Prayer and Meditation Space at the Main Branch to provide an inclusive, quiet space for reflection, meditation, and spiritual practice. Improved accessibility by introducing loanable reading glasses for in-library use, helping patrons comfortably access Library resources and services.
Hosted The Glass Room: Misinformation Edition, an international exhibit exploring digital privacy, algorithms, and misinformation in today’s online environment. Expanded digital literacy and public engagement opportunities through interactive exhibit components, school visits, and a public panel discussion connected to The Glass Room: Misinformation Edition.
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