The Boyne Regional Library is celebrating Canadian Library Month this October with a full calendar of programs, fundraisers, and community events designed to showcase the library’s role as more than just a place for books.
“Canadian Library Month is a time to celebrate the vital role that we play in our community,” said Lynsey Hannah, from the Boyne Regional Library. “We are a welcoming hub for connection, creativity, and lifelong learning.”
Throughout the month, the library will host a range of activities for all ages, including the launch of its new Silent Book Club chapter on Oct. 15, a return of drop-in storytime and craft programs, and several fundraising events that support programs and collections.
Hannah said the library takes pride in being “the heart of the community,” serving as a gathering space, learning hub, and even a quiet refuge. “We see firsthand how the library brings people together—whether it’s a caregiver and child enjoying storytime, a senior discovering a new hobby, or a teen connecting with peers in after-school programs,” she said.
In recent years, the role of the library has evolved far beyond borrowing books. “Libraries have become vibrant community places,” Hannah explained. “We’ve seen increasing demand for access to technology, inclusive programming, and creative spaces. We’ve shifted from being a place to borrow, to being a place to belong.”
Among the month’s highlights is the Youth Maker’s Market, returning for its fourth year on Nov. 15. The event gives young entrepreneurs, artists, and crafters under 18 a chance to showcase their creativity in a supportive environment. “It’s a great opportunity for young people to gain real-world experience, build confidence, and feel a sense of pride in sharing their work,” Hannah said. Shoppers will also have the chance to win one of four $50 Carman Chamber Cash Bucks, sponsored by Community Futures Heartland.
The library’s Wine Survivor fundraiser is also back, with proceeds going toward programs for children, adults, teens, and seniors. Another popular initiative this month is the Handprint Wall Fundraiser, where families can leave a lasting mark on the Children’s Library by purchasing a personalized handprint tile.
Hannah encouraged residents to stop by and rediscover what the library offers. “Many people still associate libraries mainly with borrowing books, but there’s so much more happening behind our doors,” she said. “We love seeing that moment when someone walks in and says, ‘I didn’t know the library did this!’”
Community members can also support the library by visiting, attending a program, or bringing along a friend. Donations are accepted through the library’s website at boyneregionallibrary.com.
This month, the library is also collaborating with the Carman-Dufferin Fire Department and Safe Communities Carman-Dufferin. Children visiting the library can pick up a free Fire Prevention Week package, complete with a colouring page and entry into a draw for a grand prize.
Looking ahead, Hannah said the library’s goal is to continue listening to the community and offering relevant, accessible, and enriching services. “As the world around us changes, libraries have the unique ability to grow alongside their communities,” she said. “We’re excited to keep doing just that.”
