Highlights from the Collection Survey

Thank you to the nearly 4,900 members of our community who participated in our recent Collection Survey—the largest response we've ever received! Your feedback is helping shape the future of our library’s strategic plan and collection development, ensuring we continue to meet your needs and reflect the vibrant diversity of Markham.

Here are some key takeaways:

What You’re Using—and Why

  • Print books remain your favorite, but digital formats like eBooks and eAudiobooks are on the rise.
  • You’re borrowing materials for entertainment and leisure, personal growth, and to support your hobbies.
  • Graphic novels, mystery, and sci-fi are top fiction picks, while non-fiction interests include health, science, and business.

Format Flexibility & Digital Growth

  • More of you are using both digital and physical formats than ever before.
  • 16% now use digital only, up from just 6% in 2020.
  • Still, many of you value physical formats for equitable access and family use.

Diversity & Inclusion Matter

  • 84% feel our collection reflects Markham’s diversity and feel represented by our collections —but you’ve asked for more:
    • Multilingual and culturally specific resources
    • LGBTQIA+ representation in our collections
    • Updated resources related to autism and neurodiversity

Finding What You Need

  • While you usually find what you're looking for, barriers remain:
    • We don’t own the item you’re looking for or it’s checked out
    • There are long wait times for the item you want
    • There is limited awareness of digital resources like Brainfuse and Udemy (Brainfuse offers free online tutoring and homework help for students in Grades K to 12 while Udemy offers thousands of free online courses in the areas of business, technology, health, the arts, language learning and more.

Generational Insights

  • Young adults (18 – 24 ) are underrepresented as library users and lean towards digital content.
  • Older users are embracing digital but still love physical collections.
  • Graphic novels are a hit across all ages! Your participation in this year’s Markham Reads title All Our Ordinary Stories by Teresa Wong, demonstrated your interest in the graphic novel format.  

What You Told Us

At a time when spotting fake news is increasingly challenging, there was strong agreement that the library helps you find trustworthy and reliable information. You also appreciate our affordability, accessibility and helpful staff. You've asked for: 

  • More copies of popular titles
  • Better promotion of available resources
  • Continued investment in physical formats

We’re listening—and your input is already guiding our next steps. Stay tuned as we use these insights to build a more responsive, inclusive, and engaging library experience for everyone.

Have more ideas? We’d love to hear from you anytime!