Have you discovered ALL your library has to offer? We have way more than just books and movies to borrow! Our Library of Things collection has an amazing selection of unique items and resources that you can access for free with your library card.
One great resource is our Ontario Parks Vehicle Permits. Get outside, explore our beautiful province, and learn more about the nature that surrounds us by borrowing one of these permits. They allow park entry to any provincial park for one vehicle and its passengers for the day.
We're looking to expand both the unique items that we lend through our Library of Things, and our in-branch Creative Spaces that allow you to access emerging technology and DIY tools for free.
What would YOU like to borrow from the Library and use in our spaces? We've created a brief survey (2-3 minutes) that you can use to share your ideas! Complete the survey for a chance to win some BPL SWAG and gift cards to J'Adore Fine Cheese or Homestead Artisan Bakery.
Place a hold on one of these hot new fiction titles being published in May! There's something for everyone, so you're sure to find an exciting new title to add to your TBR list.
May is Asian Heritage Month in Canada, showcasing the culture, art and history of Asian Canadians. Browse our Voices of Asian Heritage book list to begin learning and discovering.
The Barrie Public Library is the proud host of Barrie's largest waterfront festival, the Barrie Dragon Boat Festival. It’s held in beautiful Heritage Park with races taking place on Kempenfelt Bay. Our 18th annual Barrie Dragon Boat Festival is returning in person on Saturday, August 20!
Early Bird Registration is now open
Early Bird Team Registration is open from May 2 to May 31, so be sure to sign up! Not quite ready? Regular team registration is open from June 1 through to August 1, 2022. Individual paddlers are welcome. Teams are often looking for individual paddlers to join them, so there is no reason to miss out!
Has it been a while since you've dropped by? So much has changed in our spaces and our staff would love to show you around! Drop in with your small group, or feel free to email or call us to arrange a time for a tour.
Did you know you can schedule an Express Pick-up appointment to pick up your items? This is a great option if you are in a rush, have kids in the car, or you're just not comfortable coming into public spaces at the moment.
Join us at Meridian Place in downtown Barrie from 11am - 3pm for this free community awareness event.
Discover health and wellness resources in your community with active living demos, a pop-up medication drop-off site with free harm reduction kits, live music and interactive activities including giveaways!
Health and Wellness agencies include:
Salvation Army, John Howard Society, Barrie Families Unite, Georgian College, New Life Pharmacy, St. John's Ambulance Therapy Dogs, Community Veterinary Outreach, CMHA, Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County, YMCA, Women and Children's Shelter, Barrie Native Friendship Centre, Catholic Family Services of Simcoe County