Loud for Libraries: Ontario Public Library Week

What comes to mind when you think of the library? Books, of course! But at Kawartha Lakes Public Library, there is so much more to discover.

From October 18–24, we are celebrating Ontario Public Library Week with this year’s theme, Loud for Libraries. It is a chance to celebrate the important role libraries play in our communities and to help spread the word about everything we have to offer YOU!

Whether you visit your local branch every week, haven’t been in years or have never had a library card, there is something waiting for you at the library.

More Than Books: What Can You Discover?

Your library card opens the door to a world of opportunities. Here are just a few ways to make the most of your Kawartha Lakes Public Library.

Explore your next great read

Discover novels, mysteries, biographies, cookbooks, large-print books, audiobooks, eBooks and more. Looking for a new favourite author or something completely different, our collection has something for every interest. 

Learn something new

Explore online resources, discover new skills, research a topic or find your next hobby. From digital resources to hands-on workshops and educational programs, the library is a place to keep learning at every age.

Borrow more than books

Did you know you can borrow items beyond just books? Our Library of Things includes sports equipment, educational toys, and passes to local museums, the zoo, and activities like swimming and skating. Try a new hobby, explore somewhere new or enjoy a fun activity without having to purchase all the equipment yourself.

Connect with your community

Libraries are welcoming places to meet people, share interests and spend time with others. Join a book club, play a board game, attend a presentation or try a creative workshop. With free programs and events for different ages and interests, there are plenty of ways to get involved and make new connections. You don’t need a library card to attend our programs! Everyone is welcome.

Get Creative: Enter Our Bookmark Design Contest

To celebrate Ontario Public Library Week and Canadian Library Month, we are inviting the community to take part in our Bookmark Design Contest!

Whether you love drawing, painting, illustration or experimenting with colour and patterns, this is your chance to create an original bookmark design. 

There are three categories: 

• Children (12 and under)
• Teens (13–18)
• Adults 

Three winners will be selected in each category. Winners will receive a Kawartha Lakes Public Library mug and printed copies of their winning bookmarks.The deadline is Saturday, October 24, 2026. Entries must be submitted before your local branch closes that day.

Ready to enter? Find the contest details and entry form on our website or pick up a form at your local branch. Full bookmark contest details and entry form

Be Loud for Your Library, and Spread the Word

One of the easiest ways to support your library is to use it, celebrate it and tell others about it.

This Ontario Public Library Week, we encourage you to:

• Explore something new. Browse the library website and discover a resource, collection or program you haven’t tried before.
• Visit your local branch. Stop in to browse, ask questions or find out what’s happening in your community.
• Share the library love. Tell your family, friends, neighbours and coworkers about something you’ve enjoyed at the library.
• Invite someone along. Know someone who hasn’t visited the library in a while... or ever? Encourage them to explore the website with you, attend a program or stop by a branch together.

You never know what might spark someone’s interest. A book recommendation, an upcoming event or a resource they didn’t know existed could be all it takes to introduce them to something new.

Start Exploring Today

You don’t have to wait for a special occasion to discover your local library. Start by exploring our website to browse the collection, learn about our services, discover upcoming programs and events, and find resources that match your interests.

Then spread the word. Because when more people discover what their library has to offer, the whole community benefits.

This week, let’s get Loud for Libraries!