Twice a Pioneer: A History of Oxford County Library Services
Local History Speaker Series returns this summer with an in-depth look at the Oxford County Library on its 60th anniversary
Oxford County Library and Oxford County Archives proudly present the third installment of the Local History Speaker Series in 2025:
Twice a Pioneer: A History of Oxford County’s Library Services
Saturday, July 19, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Oxford County Library – Tillsonburg branch (2 Library Lane, Tillsonburg)
Join local history specialist Dr. Matthew Griffis as he provides the complete history of the Oxford County Library. As the Oxford County Library celebrates its 60th anniversary, we recall our origins as one of Ontario’s first county libraries. The presentation will feature archival images and other historical items that the public has not seen in over 60 years.
This presentation will provide residents with a better understanding of how the Oxford County Library was established and why it was only the second county library to form in Ontario. The library as we know it today in Oxford County began with the formation of the Oxford County Library Association in 1937 and the Oxford County Library Cooperative in 1948, culminating in the establishment of the current Oxford County Library system in 1965.
Space is limited, and registration is required. Register for the in-person event at the Tillsonburg branch of Oxford County Library by calling (519) 842-5571 or register online for the in-person or virtual event via the Programs and Events calendar at www.ocl.net.
About the speaker
Dr. Matthew Griffis currently works as one of Oxford County Library's local history specialists. Formerly a senior professor of library and archival studies, Griffis holds master's and PhD degrees in library and information science and has conducted historical and social studies of public libraries as community organizations, the evolution of library architecture, and the history of public library development in North America. Griffis has spoken at many professional and academic conferences, including four annual conferences of the American Library Association, and has published his research in the United States and Canada.