How Libraries Bring People Together

Libraries are about much more than books. They are places where people come together, discover shared interests and build meaningful connections. For adults and seniors, in particular, the library offers welcoming, low-cost opportunities to get out, meet new people, learn something new and feel more connected to their community.

Regular social interaction can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, support mental and emotional well-being, and strengthen a sense of belonging. Across Kawartha Lakes, our library branches offer many opportunities for residents to connect with others, whether through a shared hobby, a friendly game or a lively discussion.

Find your people at the library

You can see these connections taking shape every week at our branches.

• The Lindsay branch hosts a weekly Board Game Café on Wednesday evenings.
• Bobcaygeon branch brings Scrabble players together every Tuesday afternoon.
• Fenelon Falls branch offers beginner Mahjong games twice a week.
• Dunsford branch has a monthly birding group.
• Kinmount branch offers residents a chance to gather to learn Spanish and play the ukulele.

Creative interests also bring people together. Quilting, knitting and paper craft groups meet at several branches, welcoming newcomers who want to learn, share ideas or simply enjoy a hobby with others. Book clubs offer another opportunity to connect, with groups meeting at library branches and local bars and cafés.

You don't have to wait for the library to organize a group, either. Friends, coworkers or neighbours can start their own book club and borrow a book club set from the library completely free.

Discover something new

These regular activities are just some of the opportunities available. Residents can explore the library's online calendar of events to discover special programs, talks, workshops and activities taking place throughout the year at branches across Kawartha Lakes.

Upcoming events can also bring people together around important community topics. On October 28, library CEO Jamie Anderson and Roderick Benns of The Lindsay Advocate will moderate a conversation about the importance of local journalism and how local media helps us understand the issues affecting our community. Event details.

Small activities, meaningful connections

Sometimes, building connections starts with something simple: a reason to leave the house, an opportunity to meet someone new or a chance to share an interest with others. It might be a game of Scrabble, a birding outing, a shared love of books or learning a new skill alongside fellow community members.

Whatever your interests, the library offers opportunities to connect, participate and feel part of something. By bringing people together around shared interests and experiences, Kawartha Lakes Public Library helps foster the social connections that make our communities stronger and more welcoming places to live.