What's Happening @ BPL: April 2023

In This Issue

• One eRead Canada runs April 1 to 30
• NEW Gardening Kits from our Library of Things
• 'My Own Library Card' launches with 3 new designs for kids
• Early Bird Registration for our Barrie Dragon Boat Festival
• Easter weekend hours
• Lego Robotics is BACK!
• ...and more

'My Own Library Card' launches for kids 

You’re never too young to join the library, and now the Barrie Public Library’s youngest patrons can have a library card of their very own!

Kids can visit any of our locations to sign up for a library card and choose from three adorable designs.  

Kids will have access to our entire children’s collection with their library card, including books, board books, DVDs, video games and more.

Borrow Tatouine with no holds during April

One eRead Canada is a virtual book club that takes place each year during April. This year’s pick is Tatouine/Ce qu'on respire sur Tatouine by Canadian author Jean-Christophe Réhel. 

About Tatouine
"A young poet daydreams of leaving his suburban life just outside of Montreal and escaping to the fictional Star Wars planet that gives the book its name. This fantasy helps provide an outlet to the boredom he experiences while working minimum-wage jobs or receiving another treatment for cystic fibrosis. Told through an internal monologue, the book mixes melancholy and humour to create a vibrant portrait about living with a disability." ~One eRead Canada

Access the eBook and eAudiobook with no holds or waitlists in both English and French throughout April!

*NEW* Gardening Kits

 Enjoy our newest Library of Things item, BPL Gardening Kits, which are equipped with gardening tools, knee pads, and a gardening book. We even have Junior kits with little tools for little hands! 

April's Hot New Fiction

Place a hold on one of these hot new fiction titles being published in April!

There's something for everyone, so you're sure to find an exciting new title to add to your TBR list.

Downtown Library: Owen/McDonald Street intersection closed as of April 3

Infrastructure work is beginning for the new development at 67 Owen Street. This will result in a full closure of the Owen Street and McDonald Street intersection beginning April 3 for approximately 4 weeks.

There will be no impacts to Downtown Library services, and the drop box and Express Pick-Up Window will remain open. 

BDBF Early Bird Registration Continues

The sun is shining and we're dreaming of getting out on the water for a paddle! 

Tim Hortons, our Presenting Sponsor, is offering 'Coffee for a Year' to one lucky Early Bird team! Early Bird registration ends April 30 so be sure to get your team submitted for a chance to win.

National Volunteer Week: April 16 to 22

National Volunteer Week takes place from April 16 to 22! We are so thankful to our 200+ volunteers who make a difference in our library and community every day. 

Click the button below to learn more about National Volunteer Week, and volunteering with the Library. We have tons of opportunities available including for our Barrie Dragon Boat Festival this August.

Raising Awareness of Autism

World Autism Awareness Day is an internationally recognized day on April 2 every year, encouraging everyone to take measures to raise awareness about people with Autism Spectrum Disorder throughout the world. It was designated by the United Nations General Assembly resolution. 

Celebrate Scottish Heritage for Tartan Day

April 6 is Tartan Day, a North American celebration of Scottish heritage. From classics to contemporary fiction novels, revel in the depth and diversity of Scottish literary culture with these selections from our collection.

BPL working to reduce period poverty

We are all about reducing barriers, and we recognize that period poverty is a real concern for many in our community. As a result, we are now offering pads and tampons in all public washrooms, male and female, at all locations. 

We encourage visitors to take one product for themselves or someone they know. 

April Programs & Events

Community Information

Are you looking for community information and events? Visit our Community Directory for information covering a wide range of topics, including information about non-profit agencies, government offices, health services, clubs and special interest organizations, volunteer opportunities, daycare services, support groups and counselling services in the Barrie area.

Check out our online Community Bulletin Board to find out what's happening in our community!