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Celebrating Freedom to Read: A Panel Discussion

with Local Libraries

A panel discussion at Waterloo Public Library, Eastside Branch.

In recognition of Freedom to Read Week 2026, this panel brings together voices from Waterloo Public Library, Cambridge Public Library, and Region of Waterloo Library for a thoughtful conversation about what “freedom” really means in our reading lives. The discussion will explore the difference between freedom from certain content and the freedom to read, and how both ideas shape information literacy, democracy, and our shared sense of the common good. Expect an engaging, accessible evening that looks at how these ideas show up in our communities—and why they matter.

About Freedom to Read Week
Freedom to Read Week takes place from February 22 to 28, and is an annual event that encourages Canadians to think about and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom.

As of 2024, Freedom to Read Week entered a new phase led by Library and Archives Canada, the Canadian Urban Libraries Council, and the Ontario Library Association in partnership with the Book and Periodical Council. For more information, visit the Freedom to Read website.

About the Panelists
Stayce Webber (Waterloo Public Library)
Stayce Webber is Waterloo Public Library’s Collection Development Librarian. In her 17 years at WPL, she has held several roles in the Collections department, and has also worked in Information Services. In a previous life she worked at the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh in positions ranging from page, to Humanities Librarian, to Supervisor. In all of these roles, she has been an advocate for equitable access to information for all. As a collection development librarian, she makes decisions through the lens of intellectual freedom principles, and works to develop robust and diverse collections that ensure customers have access to a wide range of viewpoints without restriction or censorship. 

Andrea Siemens (Cambridge Public Library)
Andrea Siemens is the Manager of Youth Services at Cambridge Public Library, where she brings a unique perspective to library work. With a background as a professional actor, drama instructor, and co-founder of an international touring theatre company, she designs youth services that centre creativity, storytelling, and participatory learning. Andrea holds a Master of Information (Library & Information Science) from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Theatre and English Literature from the University of Winnipeg. Her career spans public libraries, professional theatre, and international conference work, including service with the United Nations in New York. She is particularly interested in how arts-based practice can expand literacy, deepen engagement, and reimagine what public libraries can be for young people.

Cristina McLaren (Region of Waterloo Library)
Cristina is a librarian and community services leader focused on equitable access to information, lifelong learning, and responsive library programming. She promotes literacy, digital inclusion, and community connection by streamlining how staff and partners connect residents with information, technology, and local resources. Cristina collaborates with internal departments and community organizations to deliver services that reflect local needs, strengthen outreach, and keep collections, programs, and spaces welcoming and accessible. Her approach is data-informed, grounded in privacy and confidentiality, and guided by community feedback. Cristina is the Manager, Library Services at the Region of Waterloo Library.