By Kirk Weaver
Pelham Public Library CEO
October 15-21 is Ontario Public Library Week. It is a time to recognize and raise awareness of the valuable role libraries play in the community. The theme this year is “A visit will get you thinking”.
We are confident that, whether you visit this week or in a month from now, you will find something that will get you thinking.
You can count on finding material that helps you finish that big school project due next week. Maybe you want to keep up to date on all the latest local, national, or international news. Armed with this knowledge, and a few good rumours, you might want to discuss or debate the issues with a friend over a coffee purchased at the library. If you like discussing issues raised in a book you have read, we have a range of book clubs. For parents with young children we offer programs that will make learning fun for your kids. With free wireless internet access and computer stations, you can open the door to a wealth of information on an incredible range of topics. We also offer programming to suit all ages and personal tastes. Check out what we have to offer. We are confident that you will find something you like and we also hope that you find something that challenges you to think.
If you haven’t visited us for a while, we encourage you to drop by between October 15th and 21st. On Thursday October 19, we will be offering free coffee and goodies at both branches. All week, the children can take part in a scavenger hunt to earn a prize. If outstanding fines are keeping you away from the library, try our Food for Fines program. For each non-perishable food item you bring in for Pelham Cares during Ontario Public Library Week, we will waive $2.00 in outstanding fines up to $50.00.
We also encourage you to take part in the provincial #Get the Card Contest. Take a unique photo with your library card. Post it on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter along with an explanation of how you use your card and you could win a prize. Details are on our web page, https://pelhamlibrary.on.ca/7241-2/
Pelham Public Library Key Facts
- Library service provided in Pelham for over 150 years
- Over 100,000 visitors annually
- Access to over 200,000 items through a shared collection partnership with Fort Erie, NOTL, Lincoln, and Niagara College.
- Over 400 new cards issued so far this year. More than 100 of those at the renovated Maple Acre Branch
- Programs available for all ages
- Jump n’ Jive for preschoolers
- Science buddies and Art buddies for kids
- Teen programming such as Nerf Wars, Tutoring services
- Adult programming such as learning to play bridge, book clubs, crafting, author visits and speakers on current events or issues.
- Not just about books – key social hub for learning, personal growth and community conversation
- Generously supported by community partners like Pelham Art Festival, and many local service club and group (Rotary, Kinsmen, Legion, Lioness, Kiwanis, Maple Acre Friends, etc.)
- Free access to internet through wireless service.
- Intergenerational connections
Maple Acre Branch
- Newly renovated facility growing from 1,000 sq. feet to almost 4,000 sq. feet.
- Retained original 100 year old library building
- Located centrally in the village of Fenwick – easily accessible.
- Comfortable seating area
- Quiet study space
- Accessible space for Pelham Historical Society records
- Children’s activity room
- Community meeting space
- Flexible and movable shelving.
- Public computer stations
- Reopened in January 2017.
- Over 18,000 visitors since reopening
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