We’d like to wish everyone a happy Canada Day, especially newcomers to Canada who are celebrating with us for the first time.
We’re pleased to announce that we’ve received a grant of $20,470 from the Immigration Partnership Council that we’ll be using to host English conversation circles for Syrian newcomers, beginning this fall. The grant funding will be used to pay for translation services, new resources, and bus tickets for participants.
On June 24, Premier Kathleen Wynne visited Central Library and met with six local Syrian families for a private conversation circle of their own.
With an Arabic translator on hand, Premier Wynne said “We want you to fell welcome, and we want you to feel that you have opportunities.”
So it’s a new year, and you’ve got plans and goals, and things you want to do and achieve and BE. Let’s not call them resolutions, because research suggests that only about 8 per cent of people stick to them.
I think you’re perfect just the way you are! But if you want to try something new in 2016, we can help. And remember, all of our resources and programs are free. Here are a few ideas:
LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE
In addition to books and CDs, we have an online learning program with grammar and speaking lessons in more than 90 languages. No experience necessary, you just need a library card to sign in. Try Transparent Language Online today.
EXPRESS YOURSELF
Join former artist, poet, and filmmaker Janice Jo Lee for spoken word poetry workshops at Central Library, beginning next week. No experience is necessary; attend one, two, or all three. Learn about storytelling, activism, and performance.
MOVE MORE
Find out if Aquafit is a good fit for you. Take a Curvy Yoga class (yoga is for every body!) in January or February. Bring your baby to yoga.Join us for an Azonto Dance Workshop, part of our Black History Month celebrations.
GET OUTSIDE Borrow a pedometer and count your steps. Come out with us for a few nights of winter stargazing. Join us for a winter hike at the Huron Natural Area.
MEET NEW PEOPLE
Come out for a fun, no-pressure round of Friend Speed-Dating: it’s like dating, but just to meet potential new friends. Like movies, or reading? Meet and socialize with people who share your interests at Film Club or one of our many book clubs. Or try new games and drink free coffee at Board Game Cafe nights.
VOLUNTEER
Share your talents with your community by volunteering at Kitchener Public Library. Or find out if fostering a pet is right for you; you could help KW Humane Society by caring for pets until they find a forever home.
PRESERVE YOUR PAST
Learn how to write your family story. Save your old film, slides and VHS tapes for free, using our digital conversion tools.Find out the best way to organize your files and photos in this helpful workshop. Or contact Karen Ball-Pyatt, our local history librarian, for a 30 minute one-on-one genealogy coaching session.
BECOME FINANCIALLY FIT Take care of your money so it can take care of you! Learn about budget and money management basics, effective tax strategies, retirement planning, lines of credit, credit reports, and more. We’ve got a finance class that’s just right for you.
There’s plenty more! Check out our website and take a look at our calendar of programs and events. Whatever your goals and dreams and aspirations are for 2016, we can help make them come true.
