New Library Service: A Place for Newcomers to Find Help
It can be overwhelming arriving somewhere completely unfamiliar. When newcomers move into Durham Region, it can be difficult to know where to find resources and information to help become a member of the community. That’s why we’ve launched a NEW service at the Library to help bridge the gap.
The Human Behind the Photograph – an interview with an artist
Jacqueline Woods is a digital based photographer in Durham Region who specializes in documentary, portraits, and events. Her recent exhibit at the Central Library, The Human Behind the Photograph : Living on the Streets, featured a series of black and white photographs of people she met living on the street. We wanted to find out more about her inspiring work. Jacqueline shared her insight with us in this interview.
WPL: What was it like for you taking these portraits?
Brain Food - The benefits of accepting a reading challenge
No doubt about it, life is busy! It can be hard to squeeze in reading time each day. You know what we've found helps in the motivation department? Reading challenges! And we're talking for all ages. The benefits to curling up with a book are endless - never mind sitting down for one-on-one time with the kids for a book snuggle. It's pure magic. But back to the busy problem. That's where we step in. We've created a one-stop-shop for all the latest reading challenges. Find one that fits and jump in!
Celebrating Black History Month with Celina Caesar-Chavannes
It's hard to land on one word to describe Celina Caesar-Chavannes. For many, she is known as a trailblazer. Celina was the first Black politician to federally represent the Town of Whitby (2015-2019). Author, social activist, entrepreneur, Chopra Certified Coach®, and speaker are also part of her impressive bio. But it's listening to Celina tell her story that leaves a deep connection to her inspiring narrative.
Whitby Library shares award-winning honours at Library Super Conference.
Durham Public Libraries, including Whitby, along with our partner Durham Children’s Aid Society(CAS), won the Ontario Library Association Les Fowlie Intellectual Freedom award and the Joyce Cunningham Award at this years Super Conference. The Les Fowlie Intellectual Freedom Award recognizes the courage shown by individuals and organizations in defending the rights of library patrons to full access to information.
One person, one act, one seed—together we can make a difference.
It seems like such a small thing. The simple act of tapping a seed out of a packet and pushing it around slowly in your palm. Once you marvel at the sheer potential of what you’re holding, next comes the step of gently planting the seed into the soil. A good pat on top of the dirt is usually hard to resist. Finally, it’s time to add a little water, and then comes the hard part: you wait expectantly to see what happens. It appears so effortless and yet, it's climate action personified.
On a mission to share a passion – one ukulele at a time.
Aaron Walderman may not call himself a perfectionist, but when it comes to knowing what makes a great guitar, he knows one when he sees it. After searching for the ultimate guitar, the former engineer decided he could just make one for himself. In the early 80’s, he heard about a program at the Ontario College of Art that could teach him how to design and make his own guitar. That led to a lifetime passion for making musical instruments including the ukulele.
The results are in! Winners announced in Library's inaugural poetry contest.
Hey Whitby writers! Thanks to you, our first annual poetry contest was a tremendous success. Our panel of judges was incredibly impressed by the scope of work that arrived in our submission boxes. It made it exceptionally difficult to choose finalists in our two categories!
Congratulations to our winners and runner-ups. A shout out to all of you who were brave enough to share your poetry. Thank you for all your wonderful contributions. We're already looking forward to next year!
A new roadmap for the next five years of growth and change
It’s an exciting time for the Town of Whitby. The signs of enormous growth are all around us. The Library’s 2024-2028 Strategic Plan will ensure we’re ready to meet the needs of our ever-changing community. Our new plan focuses on people first. Our Mission, Values, and Vision are rooted in connecting our customers by working together.