Head librarian Joey Milligan hopes to introduce a weekly STEAM and STEM program in the summer.
By Shelley Cooke
The Port Union Library has welcomed a new head librarian, Joey Milligan, who recently joined the location following his transfer from Highland Creek Library.
Milligan has worked within the library system since 2005, when he was first hired as a page. Over the years, his career progressed through a variety of roles, eventually leading him into the technology and innovation field where he served as a digital design technician at branches including North York Central.
For Milligan, working in libraries wasn’t just a career choice, it stemmed from a childhood tradition of visiting the library each week. He fondly recalls his regular visits to the Albert Campbell Library at Birchmount and Danforth with his mother.
“My mom really fostered my love of reading,” he said. “It became a tradition for us to visit the library and then stop at the bakery for a croissant afterward.” Coincidentally, Milligan later returned to Albert Campbell as a digital technician, bringing his career back to the library where his reading began.
When asked about his priorities for Port Union Library, Milligan said he hopes to introduce a weekly STEAM and STEM program during the summer, with the goal of continuing it throughout the school year through school visits coordinated with teachers. He also plans to expand access to robotics kits for patrons.
Another goal for Milligan is to increase programming for young adults, including activities centred around Dungeons & Dragons and other tabletop role-playing games. Since arriving at Port Union, Milligan has noticed the game’s broad appeal across generations. “We have senior players as well as kids as young as eight,” he said.
For individuals with limited or no computer experience, Milligan will be introducing beginner-friendly computer programs. The sessions will start with the basics, such as using a mouse, before progressing to more advanced topics including Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and internet safety.
As technology continues to evolve rapidly, public libraries are adapting to meet changing community needs. Milligan explained that this shift is especially visible in the growing demand for e-books and streaming services. He also expects increased use of the “book-a-librarian” service to help patrons, particularly older adults, learn how to navigate new tools such as AI.
To reach residents who may not have previously visited a library, Milligan is developing outreach initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and participation. He hopes to partner with nearby libraries, such as Highland Creek, and host an information booth at local events like the Port Union Waterfront Festival and Winterfest, where he can engage with the community and promote the library services.
Milligan emphasizes the importance of community building, noting that libraries serve as vital hubs that help bring energy and connection to neighbourhoods. “It provides free services to everyone and has no barriers,” he said.
As the new branch head, Joey Milligan aims to strengthen the role of Port Union Library as a welcoming and inclusive community space. Through expanded programming, outreach initiatives, and increased opportunities for learning and engagement, he hopes to encourage greater participation in library services.