The week of October 19-26 is Ontario Public Library Week, and this year’s theme is Libraries for Life / Biblios pour la vie, celebrating everything that our public libraries do to help us learn, explore, discover, read, and connect to our communities at all stages of our lives. 

It’s also Customer Appreciation Week at Brampton Library, where we celebrate all of you! Whether you attend a program, use study space, explore technology, access online e-resources, or just read voraciously, you are the reason that we do what we do, and we want to thank you.  

Throughout the week, you’ll find all sorts of special things happening in our branches:

  • A used book sale at all branches except South Fletcher’s and Chinguacousy (while quantities last)
  • A pop-up prize wheel for kids at a different branch each day
  • A scavenger hunt at all branches - complete 5 activities on your passport to enter a draw for a Brampton Library swag bag
  • Our annual survey where you can make your voice heard, plus enter a draw for one of two iPads or one of eight Bramalea City Centre $100 gift cards. The survey will be available online or you may request a print copy.  

Again, I want to thank all of you and the entire Brampton community for your support and the incredible energy you bring to our services and spaces. Without you, we would not be here! Please do not hesitate to contact me with your questions or feedback.

This fall, Brampton Library is thrilled to host a variety of engaging events and activities that aim to connect our community in fresh and inspiring ways. Whether you’re a lifelong learner, a tech enthusiast, an arts and crafts lover, or simply looking to connect with like minded individuals, there’s something for everyone! Here’s a sneak peek of what’s coming up, including the return of FOLD Kids Book Fest to Gore Meadows Branch Library for their live events on Thursday, November 7 and Saturday, November 9.

  • Customer Appreciation Week: Celebrating you

Customer Appreciation Week is here! From October 19 - 27 we will celebrate you with activities that include a library-wide scavenger hunt and pop-up prize wheel. Pick up a passport in any branch to participate in the scavenger hunt and enter to win a prize pack. Complete our customer survey for the chance to win an iPad, or one of eight Bramalea City Centre gift cards. This week is our way of saying thank you and we look forward to seeing you soon!

  • Join us as we kick-off a brand new author series at Brampton Library

We’re thrilled to invite you to an engaging and inspiring talk with acclaimed author Farah Heron on October 25 from 6:30 - 7:45 p.m. at the Cyril Clark Theatre. Farah will be in conversation with the Festival of Literary Diversity’s Program Coordinator Hudson Lin, discussing her latest book, Just Playing House. This unique opportunity allows you to step into the author’s creative process, hear their behind-the-scenes stories, and explore related themes. Don’t miss this lively discussion and the opportunity to connect and celebrate literature. 

For the first time since 2019 Tech Fair is back

  • Tech lovers of all ages, we are calling you! Our 2024 Tech Fair is happening on Saturday, November 2, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Gore Meadows Branch Library! This is your chance to learn about and experiment with the latest technological advancements through hands-on demonstrations. Celebrate and explore a variety of technology, from drones, to robots and household gadgets, to software. Enjoy exhibitors and vendors, workshops, speakers, and activities for kids and adults. Tech clubs, inventors, and businesses will all be there to show off their tech.
  • Many exhibitors will be present representing the community of Makers, technology leaders, Robotics enthusiasts, 3D printing pioneers, coding and programming specialists, and more.
  • Tech Fair is designed to be an inclusive event, offering an engaging experience for all ages and abilities. Come join us to experience Tech Fair! Registration is not required.

We are so excited to once again host Brampton’s FOLD Kids Book Fest at Gore Meadows Community Centre and Library

And as the holidays approach, get ready for our 12 Days of Creativity, which kicks off with BAOs Winter Artist Market at Springdale!

Explore key local destinations on the Newcomer Bus Tours! 

  • If you’re new to Brampton, don’t miss out on this opportunity to have a tour of the city! You’ll get the chance to explore local transportation hubs, community centres, City Hall and experience the magic of the holiday lights at Gage Park on these Newcomer Bus Tours. Registration will be opened on November 18th for Dec 3 (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) & Dec 5 ( 5 – 8 p.m.) We look forward to seeing you all there!

With a variety of diverse events and initiatives, from exciting fall events to festive holiday workshops, there’s something for all ages and interests. Register soon to secure your spot—we can’t wait to see and connect with you as we embrace the spirit of this season together!

The International Day of Sign Languages (September 23rd) shines a light on the crucial role of sign languages as a vital form of communication for the global Deaf community and offers a powerful reminder of its importance. Through education and awareness, we can break down the barriers that often isolate Deaf individuals from the wider community. Schools, workplaces, and public spaces become more inclusive environments by promoting the use of sign language, ensuring equitable opportunities to succeed and thrive.

Language Learning Resources

At Brampton Library, we are deeply committed to promoting linguistic diversity and supporting our community in embracing the beauty of language. We provide an extensive array of e-resources designed to make language learning accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Here's how you can start your journey:

    • Mango Languages:  Unlock the door to over 20 different ESL/ELL language courses, all available to you 24/7. With Mango Languages, you can learn at your own pace, mastering new languages with ease and flexibility.
    • Gale Courses: Access expert-taught online classes in a wide variety of languages, including French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Sign Language, and more. Whether you’re learning on a desktop or mobile device, Gale Courses are available around the clock to fit your schedule.
    • Road to IELTS: Prepare for the IELTS exam with over 120 hours of interactive English learning activities. This resource is packed with videos, tutorials, practice tests, and downloadable e-books to ensure your success.

  • Road to IELTS Academic: Dive deeper with the Academic training module, offering intensive lessons and practical tools to enhance your English vocabulary, reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.

Resources for the Hard of Hearing and Deaf Community in Peel

Brampton Library is proud to connect you with a variety of organizations dedicated to supporting the Deaf and hard of hearing community in Peel. These resources provide essential services and programs to empower and uplift individuals in our community:

  1. Canadian Hearing Services (CHS) - Peel Region: CHS offers a comprehensive range of services, from hearing tests to ASL classes. They also provide communication devices, counseling, and employment services to support those with hearing loss.
  2. Peel Association for the Hearing Impaired (PAHI): PAHI is a beacon of support, offering social activities, educational workshops, and advocacy programs tailored to the needs of the Deaf and hard of hearing in Peel.
  3. Deaf Access Simcoe Muskoka: This organization extends its reach to Peel, providing remote services including ASL interpretation and outreach programs. They are dedicated to making Deaf services accessible to all.
  4. The Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf: Based in Toronto, this center serves the broader area, offering residential, educational, and social services that are specifically designed to meet the needs of the Deaf community. They also run outreach programs in Peel.

Supporting initiatives that provide sign language interpreters and resources for learning sign language can make a substantial difference. Thinking globally, it is a day to recognize and honour the rich cultural heritage and unique perspectives of members of theDeaf community. By doing so, we enrich our own lives and build a more compassionate and understanding world.

As we celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages, let's pledge to be allies and advocates for the Deaf community. Whether by learning a few basic signs, supporting Deaf-owned businesses, or simply raising awareness, each action contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society. Together, we can ensure that sign languages are not just acknowledged but embraced, fostering a sense of belonging and unity for all.

TeenTober™ is a library tradition every October to promote teen services and everything teens can do at their library! Here are the exciting things you can try, borrow, and learn from the Brampton Library!

If you’re creative, you may enjoy:

  • DIY School Supplies - learn how you can use our makerspaces to personalize your school supplies! Registration required.
  • Film in a Day - dive into the art of filmmaking! In partnership with Film in a Day, teens will enjoy this opportunity to create a film from start to finish. Registration required.
  • Teen Take and Make - pick up a kit from any Brampton Library location to make your own fidget bracelet. Video instructions can be found on Brampton Library’s YouTube page

If you are interested in learning more about student resources:

  • College or University? - In partnership with Sheridan College, join us to learn about the differences between college and university. Registration required.
  • Check out our student resources all FREE with your library card!

If you enjoy gaming, you may enjoy:

If you’re interested in reading more, try these:

  • Join the FOLD Kids reading challenge for teens! Every book you read on the list gets you a ballot for a prize pack from FOLD.
  • Read the 2024 Battle of the Books winner decided by 660 teen votes, Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

If you love the outdoors, come and borrow:

As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, I remain deeply committed to honoring the experiences and resilience of Indigenous communities. This day, often recognized by the wearing of orange shirts, serves as a powerful reminder of the injustices faced by Indigenous children who were taken from their families and placed in residential schools. It is a day of reflection, learning, and, most importantly, an opportunity to stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities across Canada.

The Symbolism of the Orange Shirt

The tradition of wearing orange on September 30 originates from Orange Shirt Day, inspired by the story of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad. At the age of six, Phyllis was excited to wear a new orange shirt to her first day of residential school. However, upon arrival, the shirt was taken from her, symbolizing the loss of identity and culture experienced by many Indigenous children in residential schools. Since then, the orange shirt has become a symbol of the broader effort to ensure that “Every Child Matters” and that the experiences of those who suffered in these schools are not forgotten.

The 2024 Every Child Matters Design

This year’s Every Child Matters orange shirt, available through OrangeShirtDay.org, features a new design that honors the stories of survivors and their families. Created with input from Indigenous artists and communities, the 2024 design embodies themes of healing, resilience, and the strength of Indigenous cultures. The artwork reflects the ongoing journey of reconciliation and the importance of preserving and sharing Indigenous heritage.

If you would like to purchase a shirt, you can do so directly from the Orange Shirt Society or the retailers they list on their website, at OrangeShirtDay.org. Proceeds from the sale of these shirts support Indigenous communities, by helping to fund programs and initiatives that foster healing and education.

Why We Wear Orange

Wearing an orange shirt on September 30 is more than just a symbol; it is a call to action. It invites reflection on the history and ongoing impact of residential schools in Canada. By wearing orange, we acknowledge the pain and trauma that these schools inflicted on Indigenous communities and express our commitment to learning from the past and working towards a future that respects and uplifts Indigenous voices.

Join Us in Commemorating Truth and Reconciliation Day

I invite all community members to join Brampton Library in commemorating Truth and Reconcilation Day by participating in our events and wearing their orange shirts on September 30. Please note that all branches will be closed on this day of observance in order to honor the memory of those impacted and stand in solidarity with Indigenious communities.

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