Across Canada, public libraries often play a key role in improving access to justice for those who experience barriers. Much research has demonstrated the important role of “trusted helpers” such as public libraries in assisting people to access legal information.
For more than a decade, many justice organizations have worked with public libraries across Ontario, recognizing their role as a key entry point to the justice system.
This session will explore recent initiatives in library and justice partnerships in Canada, with panelists sharing initiatives they’ve undertaken to make legal information more readily accessible to the public. Panelists will provide an overview of their programs and take part in a discussion moderated by CLEO on the opportunities and challenges of library and justice partnerships, as well as lessons learned from the pandemic.
Date and time: Wednesday, October 26, 1:30-3:00 pm
Speakers:
Dayna Cornwall, Project Manager, National Self-Represented Litigants Project
Carrie Sinkowski, Community Developer, Community Legal Clinic - Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk
Megan Smiley, LawMatters Program Coordinator, Courthouse Libraries BC
