Library News

The Barrie Public Library is one location where arts, culture and creativity will intersect with Ontario Culture Days this fall!

Here we go! It’s a me, BPL’s 2023 family Comic Fest - superheroes of all shapes and capes are returning to the Downtown Library on Saturday, September 23 from 10am to 3pm.

Saturday, August 19^th was a beautiful day on Kempenfelt Bay as close to 700 paddlers took their energy to the water and paddled in unison to support of various charities! This year, the Festival welcomed 26 teams from various businesses, charities, government offices and groups of friends, of whom cumulatively raised $47,000.00 (and counting!) for various charitable organizations, including the Barrie Public Library’s Future Branches Campaign.

A change is coming to the Ontario Curriculum this fall, and the library is here to help! In response to the Right to Read inquiry report that was released by the Ontario Human Rights Commission in 2022, the Ontario government has revamped how students in Grades 1-3 are taught how to read.  

The 19th annual Barrie Dragon Boat Festival hosted by Barrie Public Library and presented by Tim Hortons is set to return to Heritage Park this Saturday, August 19. Featuring 26 teams from local businesses, charitable organizations, groups of friends and more, there is bound to be lots of excitement and friendly competition taking place on and off the water!