By Betty Dykstra, Library Manager
We are the “youngest” association in the system but even though our roots are not deep, we have quickly grown to be one of the busiest courthouses in Ontario. Our proximity to the GTA and the rapid expansion of York Region has created an area rich in diversity with the residents, but also in the composition of the legal community. The York Region Law Association Library is committed to being a forward thinking, progressive library, anticipating the evolving needs of the profession through the use of technology and providing a functional working space. Our library features an excellent collection, multiple computers and work stations, a Zoom booth, and spacious seating.
During the library renovation in 2017, we purposely designed the area above the perimeter radiators at the back to create a convenient stand-up laptop bar for our members. We also added additional electrical outlets with USB charging ports to support the increasing use of mobile devices and the need for a quick charge. This laptop bar takes advantage of the added benefit of natural light.
The YRLA has two privacy booths, purchased in early 2023 from a Canadian company using Canadian-sourced materials. One booth is located in the lounge, funded by the Association, and the other is in the library. They are used daily for Zoom court appearances, telephone calls, and, on occasion, interview or media commentary by counsel. On many days, demand for the booths far exceeds their availability.
We keep our members informed of upcoming events, practice directions, and notices to the profession through Wild Apricot — a membership management program which incorporates our website, mailing list, membership and events. We send out a regular newsletter called It’s Lawful News which is extremely well received by the members. It is a combination of association updates, library highlights, new book announcements, local cases from Newmarket, and notable and interesting cases we have come across. In addition, our Optisigns display provides a continuous screen of events and info for those enjoying a coffee or lunch in our beautiful lounge.
One of the greatest strengths of any library is its staff. The YRLA library is supported by three dedicated team members who bring more than 50 years of collective research experience. They proudly uphold the tagline on their emails “Providing value and service to the Lawyers of Ontario.”