What's Happening @ BPL: February 2023

Celebrate Black History Month with BPL

While February 2023 marks the 28th anniversary of Black History Month in Canada, we are committed to recognizing the importance of Black history 365 days a year. 

Join us as we celebrate the legacy of Black Canadians who have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation it is today. Attend a Storytime, watch an online film, or try a new author from our selected booklists. Together let’s celebrate the diversity of Simcoe County.

It's cold outside, but the new fiction being released this month is hot hot hot! Place a hold on one of these new fiction titles being published in February.

Black History Month Reads

Check out these books for adults, teens, and children, highlighting Black figures throughout history, Black authors, and stories about Black people, both fictional and real.

Our Library of Things is Expanding

In case you missed it, we've recently added some new items to our Library of Things!

• Telescope Kits
• Birdwatching Kits
• Grab & Go Ontario Park Vehicle Permits

You can explore the skies and the great outdoors easily this winter with the new additions to our collection! These items pair nicely with our Snowshoes, allowing you to enjoy a fun day of activities outside, while not having to spend a cent. 

If you are stuck inside, why not try out a Happy Light? These therapy lights help to boost your energy and enhance your mood!

Of course, there is so much to explore in our Library of Things. Head to the link below to learn more.

19th Annual Barrie Dragon Boat Festival

It might be cold out there, but plans are heating up for the 2023 Barrie Dragon Boat Festival taking place on August 19, 2023! Plan ahead and have your team added to the pre-registration list. Limited spaces available

Freedom to Read Week is nearly here

Freedom to Read Week is an annual event that encourages Canadians to think about and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom. This year, Freedom to Read Week takes place from February 19 – 25, 2023. Explore our online programs and resources today!

BPL Joins TikTok!

Your wildest dreams have finally come true! Or so we can only assume.. That's right, the Barrie Public Library has joined TikTok! Follow us @BarriePublicLibrary on the app for fun footage of staff, book recommendations & reviews, behind-the-scenes content, and more!

Frankie Flowers LIVE

Join Frankie Flowers at Five Points Theatre on Thursday, March 2!

Low-Impact, High-Output Gardening
Learn how low impact strategies that are easy on the environment, your body and your budget can create high output gardens that are interesting, attract wildlife and bring you joy!

• Tickets are $12
• Doors open at 6pm
• Meet and Greet at 6:20pm
• Presentation at 7pm

In partnership with Bradford Greenhouses Garden Gallery.

Visit BPL at Winterfest 2023!

The City of Barrie's Winterfest is back for another year. Visit us on Saturday, February 4 from 10am-12pm in Heritage park for some fun activities!

First up, try out a pair of our snowshoes on our StoryWalk and enjoy a wonderful book in the great outdoors.

You can also join us for some fun OUTDOOR stories, sing-a-longs, activities, and photo ops!

Around the World in 60 Minutes is BACK!

One of our most popular pre-pandemic programs, Around the World in 60 Minutes allows you to travel vicariously through others as you enjoy photos and stories from their travels around the world. 

🗓 Wednesday, Feb. 8, 7-8:30pm (Downtown)

About the Presenter
Karen Clegg was born & raised in Zimbabwe, Africa. She moved to Canada in 2000 due to political unrest and state-sanctioned human rights abuse in Zimbabwe. Today she feeds her passion for travel in that part of the world by leading an exclusive small group tour every few years. 

Information Barrie Directory

Are you looking for winter activities? The Information Barrie directory has information about festivals, special events and musical performances. 

Access the directory and scroll down to the search category ‘Arts/Culture’. Or check the search category ‘City of Barrie Services’ for a list of outdoor ice rinks and recreation centres.