The Blue Mountains Public Library News January 2025
Top Circulating Books of 2024
Ken holding a copy of Doppelganger

Staff Picks of 2024

Library staff have chosen our favourite books of 2024!

Doppelganger by Naomi Klein

Explores the “mirror world” of fringe politics, delving into extreme and illogical views. Frustrated by being confused with a politically opposite, Klein gains empathy for those who hold such beliefs, realizing they stem from fear and injury rather than reason. She argues that to protect democracy, we must listen to those we disagree with and understand their perspectives – Ken

More Staff Picks of 2024

most anticipated books of 2025
A girl with headphones reads a Wonderbook

The kids have discovered Wonderbooks!

A Wonderbook is a special book that has a built-in audiobook player right inside the cover. When you open the book, you can listen to the story while you read! Our Wonderbook collection includes Picture Books and Junior Fiction.

Thank you to the S. Marguerite Walker Memorial Fund at Toronto Foundation for their generous donation.

Browse Wonderbooks

Events this month
Historical photo of the Craigleith Station ski train

"Craigleith Station" REEL History Film Now Available for Streaming

We're excited to announce the official release of "Craigleith Station," our latest REEL History film. This captivating documentary explores the rich history of the Craigleith Station, a significant landmark in The Blue Mountains.

We encourage you to watch, share, and enjoy this cinematic journey through time!

Watch "Craigleith Station" on YouTube
 

Get Ready to Explore the Wonders of Winter in The Blue Mountains!

Visit the museum to see three new exhibits:

1. "Winter Biodiversity in the Blue Mountains" showcases the adaptations of local flora and fauna during the colder months.

2. "Winter Sports and Recreation" delves into the history of winter activities in the region, from traditional Indigenous practices to modern-day adventures. 

3. "The Blue Mountains Ski Industry" traces the evolution of skiing and snowboarding in the area, highlighting its impact on the local economy and community. 

Painting by Paul G. Russell

"Near & Far" Opening in The Gallery

Opening reception:
Saturday, January 4 from 2-4pm
(The Gallery at L.E. Shore)

Join Adele Derkowski and Paul G. Russell for a wine and social time in celebration of their new art exhibition. Portraits of earth and water, of people and places are explored in a variety of perspectives contrasting the grand - sweeping vistas of land and sky - with the intimate detailing of faces and shadowed stones.

Artist: P.G. Russell

Learn More About the Artists

Calling Artists!
Photography of an iceberg with hill in the distance. Taken by Michael Arkless

Iceland - A Ring Road Journey 

Tuesday, January 14 at 7pm (The Gallery at L.E. Shore)

We are excited to announce that Michael Arkless’ talk, which was previously canceled due the weather, has a new date! On January 14, Michael will recount the journey he and his wife, Gillian, recently undertook along the Icelandic Ring Road. Take a scenic tour around Iceland, exploring the unique landscapes, culture, and hidden gems of this stunning country.

Photograph by Michael Arkless

Register for Iceland

The Story Workshop, a paid 6 month writer's course with Katie Zdybel
Group of seniors that exercise at the library

New Seniors Fitness Class Added at L.E. Shore Library!

Mondays and Wednesdays
from 10-10:45am and 11-11:45am

Improve your strength and balance and join us for a fun bi-weekly fitness class for seniors. Help keep your body moving with some easy stretches and gentle aerobics.  

Pay by donation. Drop-in.

Starting January 13:
Class 1: 10-10:45am
Class 2: 11-11:45am
(involves floor exercises)

 

Play the Library Mystery Book Bingo Challenge

January 1 - January 31, 2025
(L.E. Shore Library)

Winter is a great time to become a literary detective. Join us for a thrilling month of mystery reads. Pick up a bingo card at L.E. Shore Library and read books to find the tropes.

Complete a line or fill the whole card for your chance to win movie passes!

After School Hip-Hop Dance Classes

Starts Thursday, January 9 at 3:30pm
(L.E. Shore Library)

Looking for an awesome after-school activity that’s fun and affordable? Try After-School Hip Hop with Sharin Elizabeth Dance!

An energetic, four-week hip-hop series happening every Thursday from 3:30-4:30pm at the Library, perfect for kids ready to groove and learn some new moves. $50 per child. Ages 10+

Register for Hip-Hop

Kids Can Cook S'mores

Saturday, January 18 at 11am
(L.E. Shore Library)

We’re starting 2025 on a sweet note as we teach kids how to make delicious S’more Bites.

Young chefs will get hands-on experience measuring, scooping, stirring, and baking (using a toaster oven). Along the way, they’ll build confidence in the kitchen while learning basic cooking and baking skills. Registration is required. Ages 8 and up.

Register for S'mores

Jen sits in the story tower with a picture book

"Learn to be Green" and Celebrate Family Literacy Day

Monday, January 27 at 11am
(L.E. Shore Library)

Enjoy environmental stories, songs, and a nature scavenger hunt with Jen. If the weather is nice, we'll read and sing outdoors—so dress warm.

Afterward, kids will plant a green bean seed to take home and care for. This fun, eco-friendly experience will inspire a love of reading and nature.

Drop-in program. Ages 0-5.

Little boy browsing the picture book shelves

Have you signed up for the 
Cover to Cover Reading Challenge? 


Read to win!

Swing by L.E. Shore Library to grab your tracking bookmark and start checking out those books.

Read 10 books and score an awesome prize. It’s the perfect challenge
for readers aged 0-17.
Sponsored by Dave Dick Real Estate.

Learn More about Cover to Cover

Happy New Year from the staff at the Blue Mountains Public Library
Borrow snowshoes and light therapy lamps from the Library of Things
Sign welcoming visitors to the Town of the Blue Mountains

Gateway & Wayfinding Signage Design Concept Meeting

The Town of The Blue Mountains, alongside Fathom Studio, is hosting a meeting on Thursday, January 9 from 5-6pm for participants to share their feedback regarding signage in the Town and provide suggestions or ideas for the new design process. Register Now or learn more on the Town’s website.

The Blue Mountains Public Library will close early at 2pm on Tuesday, December 31 and remain closed on Wednesday, January 1.

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Visit the Museum
Event Calendar
See Art Exhibits