Lambton County Library is inviting community members to utilize services and spaces offered at local branches as it celebrates Ontario Public Library Week.
The provincewide initiative is observed from October 18 to October 24.
Local festivities will kick off with an event at Lambton Mall, in front of Bath & Body Works (near the food court) on Saturday, October 17.
"We'll have a bunch of things set up that you can access with your library card for free," said Cultural Services Community Engagement and Communications Supervisor Emily Bisson. "We'll have our 3D printer there for people to test out, we'll have some cuttings from the laser cutter -- which we can't bring with us but can show what's possible, we'll have video games set up for people to play and try out, we'll have a photo booth, and some special library cookies while supplies last."
Bisson said people will also be available to answer any questions about the types of library services available. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Meanwhile, an open house will be held at the Watford Library on Thursday, October 22, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
The Nauvoo Road site was temporarily closed for phase two of a renovation project to maintain and restore the historic building.
"Everything is running smoothly and we're excited to open to the community again," Bisson said.
During Ontario Public Library Week, patrons can visit a Lambton County branch to fill out testimonial hearts to share what they love about their library.
Bisson said library membership remains steady.
"I believe we were sitting around 26,000 at the beginning of the year," she said. "So with people expiring out or moving out of the system and new people coming in, it had remained around the same within a couple thousand members."
Bisson said a library card is a great, free resource to have.
"You can get everything from physical books, but also free programming, free online courses, update your education with some certifications, you can access our Makerspace equipment, and audiobooks and e-books, and LinkedIn Learning is all part of your library card."
Membership is free for anyone who lives, works, studies, or owns property in Lambton County, as well as anyone who lives on a First Nations reserve in Ontario.
People can apply for a library card by visiting a local branch, with proof of identity and address.
