News from Ruth E. Dickinson: your local library branch
Visit the Library website for our hours of operation, to access online resources, browse books, search programs and events, apply for a library card, and more!
🍂 OPL Fall Hours 🍂
With fall around the corner and new routines about to begin, hours at Ottawa Public Library have returned to full fall levels at all of its 33 branches. Current hours are posted at branch entrances and on the hours and location page on the OPL website. Notably, the Library will continue its increased weekend hours that were introduced last year. Full-day service is offered on Saturdays and Sundays at ten branches and InfoService.
OPL will open seven branches on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation - Saturday, September 30 - from 10 am to 5 pm and invite members of the public to learn more about the history and lasting effects of Canada’s residential school system, and how each of us might help reconciliation
Fall holiday closures include Monday, October 9 (Thanksgiving Day) and Saturday, November 11 (Remembrance Day)
⛔ CANCELLED: Fall Plant Swap
Please note: the fall plant swap that was scheduled for Saturday, September 16 has been cancelled.
🦉 Storytime at the Library 🦉
Staff at the Ruth E. Dickinson branch are excited to welcome children and families for storytime this fall! We have a variety of storytimes to choose from - English, French, or bilingual!
Contes en famille: les mercredis matins à 10 h 30 à partir du 13 septembre - Contes, comptines et chansons pour les enfants de tous âges et un parent ou gardien
Preschool Show and Tell: Wednesdays at 2 pm starting September 13 - Join us for a preschool circle time with lots of stories, rhymes and songs, followed by a craft. Children are encouraged to bring an item or photo to share/talk about with the other participants. For children aged 3-4 (starting kindergarten in the fall of 2024) and a parent/caregiver. Siblings are welcome. Registration required*
Storytime: Thursdays at 10:30 am starting September 14 - Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes for children of all ages!
Family Storytime: alternating Saturdays at 10:30 am starting September 16 - Stories, rhymes and songs for children of all ages and their parents or caregivers
Bilingual Family Storytime: alternating Saturdays at 10:30 am - Join us for stories, songs and rhymes, for children of all ages! | Rejoignez-nous pour des histoires, des chansons et des comptines, pour les enfants de tous âges! September 23, October 7, October 21
Sensory Storytime: Monthly on select Saturdays at 3 pm - Our Storytime welcomes and respects the needs of children aged 0-6 years living with developmental disabilities and/or Autism, who may face barriers related to sensory experiences, show signs of, or are at risk for a developmental delay. A family member must be present for the entirety of the event. Offered in partnership with Mothercraft Ottawa. October 21, November 4, December 2. Registration required*
Pumpkins & Fall Leaves: A Family Storytime - Tuesday, October 31 at 10:30 am: Come join us for cozy Fall weather reads, songs, and simple crafts. A family program for you and your favourite little reading partner. Ages 2+. Registration required*
☑️ LinkedIn Learning for Library
Want to learn something new? LinkedIn Learning for Library offers over 16,000 video tutorial courses led by experts in Business, Creative, and Technology! Courses are available in 7 different languages (English, French, German, Japanese, Mandarin, Portuguese, and Spanish).
Sign in with your library card and PIN number - no need for a LinkedIn profile! Whether you are interested in graphic design, learning leadership skills, or database management, there is something for everyone!
✅ You're Invited to the Human Library!
Imagine having the opportunity to engage in one-on-one conversations with living 'books' that share their personal stories. The Human Library event offers a personal interaction where you can explore and understand the experiences that have shaped each person's journey.
Our Human Library features individuals who are deeply committed to making Ottawa's communities healthier, safer, and more inclusive. Through their stories, you'll gain insights into critical topics such as gender equity, mental health, financial security, gender-based violence prevention and support, rent supplements, integrated systems, and discrimination. Here's how it works:
Visit the Main Branch (120 Metcalfe) on Wednesday, September 20 anytime between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm
Discover the list of available Human Books
Choose a book that piques your interest
Engage in a 20-minute conversation, learning about their experiences and perspectives
Books are available on a first-come, first-served basis
Cost: FREE
Don't forget to stop by the Caring For Community travelling photo exhibit while you're there! Learn about the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan and the humans who contribute to the plan’s progress every day. This travelling photo exhibit will be on display at select library branches across the city throughout the fall.