The Barrie Public Library is one location where arts, culture and creativity will intersect with Ontario Culture Days this fall! The Library is offering an exciting variety of free programs and interactive events featuring community partners from September 22 to October 15, 2023. No matter your age, interests or abilities, with over 25 different programs hosted by the Library, you’re sure to find something for the creative spark inside. Here’s a quick glimpse at just a few of the programs we’re planning for Culture Days 2023!
Join the Library downtown at Memorial Square as we kick off our Culture Days celebration with Stories in the Square on Saturday, September 22, from 10am-4pm. We’re filling this day with literary fun for both kids and adults. You can check out our morning family storytime with local authors, show off your word wisdom by playing our giant Scrabble game over lunch, or find your next great (local) read in the afternoon as authors read excerpts from their latest work, host a storytelling circle and have books available for sale.
Saturday September 30, from 1:30-3pm at the Painswick Library, we’ll recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by screening the National Film Board 2019 documentary “Jordan River Anderson: The Messenger”. Jordan River Anderson’s short life initiated a battle for the right of First Nations and Inuit children to receive the same standard of social, health and educational services as the rest of the Canadian population. This exposé of governmental disregard speaks with an impassioned and necessary voice for Indigenous peoples.
As Culture Days continue into October, the Barrie Theatre Lab, hosted by Theatre by the Bay, will be set up at the Downtown Library on Monday, October 2, 6-8:45 pm. Writers submitting their work will gain a chance to have a read through of their submission, followed by discussion. This monthly event is also open to the community to come together, talk about theatre and network. All are welcome. Email your script in advance to barrieplaywrights@gmail.com for consideration.
Music lovers can come to listen or even perform at two events hosted by the Simcoe Folk Society in October. Join the Song Circle Night with us on Tuesday, October 3, at the Downtown Library, from 6-8:30pm as musicians take turns performing in a circle format. Or, let the music take you over at the Barrie Folk Society’s Open Stage Night on Tuesday, October 11, 6-8:30pm, at the Painswick Library, where musician come prepared to perform a set of 3 songs and audience members come prepared for a fun evening in support of local music.
For more events, information and creative prompts, don’t forget check out the Barrie Public Library’s Culture Days webpage to see what we have in store!