For generations of Canadians, and readers around the world, Robert Munsch’s stories have been bedtime rituals and lessons in love. His books — from Love You Forever to The Paper Bag Princess, Mud Puddle to Thomas’s Snowsuit — have shaped childhoods and parenthoods, their humour and heart teaching kindness, courage and unconditional love.
Now, the beloved author is writing one final chapter in his life’s story — a deeply personal act of giving that underscores the true meaning of legacy.
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The Guelph Public Library has announced that Munsch, who has lived and worked in the Ontario city for about 50 years, is donating his personal archives to the library’s new central branch (1). The collection includes original story drafts, notes from publishers, fan letters and photographs — a treasure trove of Canadian literary history.
“The Munsch family’s extraordinary gift advances Guelph Public Library’s vision to empower and inspire literacy and lifelong learning for generations to come,” library CEO Dan Atkins said in a statement.
A legacy of stories, laughter and love
Munsch, 79, who had been previously diagnosed with dementia and Parkinson’s disease, revealed earlier this year in an interview with* The New York Times* that he has been approved for medical assistance in dying (MAID) (2). In the face of declining health, he is ensuring his life’s work is preserved where it began — in his community.
“Robert Munsch is a prominent figure in this community, so having the ability to preserve his legacy is very important for us. It’s a part of the city’s history,” Eleni Hughes, supervisor of archives and records management at the Guelph Public Library, told CBC (3).
The archives will be housed in the new central library on Baker Street, set to open in 2026, with the Munsch collection on display the following year. It’s a fitting tribute to an author whose books continue to fill library shelves and whose words have long outlived the pages they were printed on.
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The power of defining your legacy
Robert Munsch’s donation shows that legacy is about preserving what matters most — your values, passions and the stories that define you. Legacy planning gives everyone the chance to ensure their life’s work and memories continue to inspire. This can include writing a will, setting up a trust, making charitable gifts or having conversations with loved ones about your wishes.
RBC Wealth Management notes that the goal of legacy planning is to “align your values and objectives, ensuring your wealth and legacy reflect what matters most to you (4).” For Munsch, that means preserving stories that have warmed generations of story times. For others, it might mean supporting education, protecting family traditions or passing on treasured memories. Thoughtful planning ensures the life you’ve built — and the values you hold dear — continue to have meaning for future generations.
Making your own story last
You don’t need to be a beloved children’s author to leave a mark. Legacy planning can begin with small, meaningful steps that reflect your values. Updating a will, naming beneficiaries, reviewing insurance coverage or sharing family stories are all ways to make your intentions clear and leave a lasting impact.
Munsch’s generosity reminds us that legacy is about intention. By consciously choosing how your story is told, whether through words, actions or contributions, your love, lessons and purpose can endure.
Now we can love his stories forever. We can love his stories for always. As long as we’re living, his stories will be.
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Article sources
We rely only on vetted sources and credible third-party reporting. For details, see our editorial ethics and guidelines.
CBC (1,3); New York Times (2); RBC (4)
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.