News from Ruth E. Dickinson: your local library branch

Written By Wilson Lo

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 (OPL) will return to full fall levels at all of its 33 branches starting Tuesday, September 5, 2023. 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. The first fall Sunday will be September 10. 

  • 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)

🍎 Back to School 🍎

Back-to-school season can be back-to-the-Library season as well. All the feels of heading off to school are celebrated in this collection of picture books to share and enjoy with your little backpacker! Don't forget to stop by our Back to School display in the library entrance when you visit us. Our fall Children's programs will be resuming starting Saturday, September 9! Please note: some programs require registration - sign up with your library card today! 

📚 Fall Book Clubs for Adults 📚 

Looking for something new to read? Join us as we share the enjoyment of reading and discuss books in a relaxed atmosphere. The Ruth E. Dickinson branch is offering 2 book clubs this fall! 

✅ 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

💬 The Right to Read: An Open Book on Intellectual Freedom 💬

To kick off library month, join us at SAW Centre on October 2 for an in-person paneled discussion about Intellectual Freedom with: Farazan Doctor winner of 2023 Freedom to Read Award, David A Robertson winner of 2021 Freedom to Read Award and Canadian journalist, activist, author, and broadcaster Desmond Cole, moderated by Adrian Harewood.

This 90-minute discussion will help bring the term of Intellectual Freedom into focus to help us understand what it is and why it is of critical importance to us all. Monday, October 2 from 7 pm to 9:30 pm at SAW Centre (67 Nicholas Street). Register here - it's free! 

Wilson Lo
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