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Summer Reading Continues! TD Summer Reading Club runs until August 15 at all library branches. Pick up a free kit and complete activities for a chance to win a prize! Be sure to submit your Reading Passports and Book Bingo Cards by August 15 for the August 21 draw. |
 August Trivia Challenge!What is everyone's favourite creamy, chilly summer treat? Ice Cream, of course! In any flavour you can imagine! Test your knowledge about one of the coolest, sweetest treats of the summer... complete the August Kahoot Trivia Challenge. |
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Crown & Bloom Needle FeltingStep into a world of color, texture, and creativity at this Crown & Bloom needle felting workshop! Using soft, vibrant wool and the magic of needle felting, you’ll learn how to craft whimsical flower crowns and charming brooches—perfect for dressing up an outfit, celebrating summer, or just adding a little floral fun to your day. Registration is required. Recommended for ages 12+.Wilberforce branch: Friday, August1 from 11am-12pm. Register for the Wilberforce workshop. Dysart branch: Thursday, August 14 from 2-3pm. Register for the Dysart Branch workshop. |
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Drag Queen Storytime Special guest Auntie Plum joins us for a Drag Queen Storytime in celebration of Pride in the Highlands. This free, family-oriented literacy program will instill a love of books and reading for children and their families through an imaginative storytelling experience. Auntie Plum loves sharing stories and positive vibes! Minden Hills branch: Tuesday, August 19, 3-4pm Dysart branch: Thursday, August 21, 3-4pm
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Regular All Ages Programs |
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The Yarners Social Minden Hills branch: Wednesdays, 10am-12pm Afternoons with Ancestors Dysart branch: Tuesday, August 5 & 19, 2-4pm Minden Hills branch: Tuesday, August 12 & 26, 2-4pm |
Friends of HCPL Book Nook Minden Hills branch: Tuesdays, 10am-2pm Savouring Stories Highland Grove branch: Friday, August 28, 11am LEGO Challenge All branches, new challenge every month |
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Family Storytime with Author Aimee Reid
Join us at the library for a special Family Storytime with Aimee Reid, beloved children’s author of Animal Snuggles and Baby Animals Trying. Aimee will read some of her heartwarming stories, perfect for young listeners and their families, followed by time for questions and a chance to meet the author.
Copies of her books will be available for purchase and signing after the reading.
Come enjoy stories that celebrate kindness, connection, and family — all ages welcome! Dysart branch: Friday, August 1, 10:30-11am |
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Classic Summer Movie: Back to the Future Travel through time (and summer boredom) with a library movie day the whole family can enjoy! We're showing Back to the Future, the iconic 1985 adventure where Marty McFly accidentally zips back to the '50s in a souped-up DeLorean—and nearly unravels his own future. Full of unforgettable moments, sharp humor, and just the right amount of '80s nostalgia, this sci-fi classic is perfect for kids, parents, and anyone who loves a good time-travel twist. So grab your snacks, hop in (no flux capacitor required), and enjoy a fun afternoon with a movie that’s stood the test of time. No registration needed. Rated PG. Parental discretion advised for mild language and action. Minden Hills branch & Dysart branch: Saturday, August 2, 2-4pm
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Intro to Coding: My First Video GameLearn the basics of coding in our instructor-led program. During this program, we'll use the Scratch coding system to introduce computer coding concepts to kids in a way that is simple and fun. The program will cover set inputs, user inputs, variables, if statements and loops. By the end of the program, participants will understand the building blocks of computer programming and will have created their very own video game. Recommended for Ages 8+. Registration required. |
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Stuffie Sleepover Ever wondered what your stuffed animal does when you're not around? Drop off your favorite stuffie for a special library sleepover adventure! Drop-Off: Drop off your stuffed animal to the library during regular library hours and say goodnight! Overnight Fun: While you’re at home, your stuffie will explore the library, get into a little mischief, and have tons of fun! Pick-Up & Surprises: Come back the next day to collect your stuffie and see photos of their adventures! No registration required—just bring a cuddly friend and let the fun begin! Minden Hills branch Drop-Off: Wednesday, August 6 from 10am-5pm Stanhope branch Drop-Off: Friday, August 8 from 12-3pm Dysart branch Drop-Off: Tuesday, August 12 from 10am-5pm Wilberforce branch Drop-Off: Friday, August 15 from 10am-5pm
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Osmo Playhouse Drop-in for a fun learn and play program at the Haliburton Library! Participants will explore a variety of fun and engaging stations based on educational Osmo activities. Learn about mathematics, counting, shapes, computer programming and much more! With something for every age and interest, this drop-in program encourages open-ended learning and play. Recommended ages 6+ What is an Osmo?
Osmo is an award-winning learning system that combines physical play with digital interaction. Using a tablet, a special base, and real-world game pieces, Osmo brings activities to life through augmented reality—helping kids develop skills in problem-solving, math, spelling, coding, creativity, and collaboration. Wilberforce branch: Friday, August 8, 2-3:30pm Dysart branch: Saturday, August 9, 2-3:30pm Dorset branch: Friday, August 15, 1-2:30pm Minden Hills branch: Saturday, August 23, 2-3:30pm
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Family Storytime with Author Phyllis BordoFamilies are invited to a special storytime with local author Phyllis Bordo, as she shares her book Lilly Esther Rescues Her Park! This engaging session is perfect for children ages 4–8 and anyone who loves a good story with heart and imagination.
After the reading, you’ll have the chance to purchase a copy and have it personally signed by the author. No registration required. Phyllis Bordo is a retired English high school teacher who enjoys reading to her grandchildren, volunteering at their school library, and volunteering at Ibby Canada's Reading With Newcomers program. After noticing how much children worry today, Phyllis created Lilly Esther to show them how to address their fears and anxieties. She hopes that Lilly Esther will help children find ways to cope with their worries, no matter what they are.
Minden Hills branch: Friday, August 8, 10:30-11am
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Family Storytime with Author Jan Coates
Join us for a special Family Storytime with award-winning children’s author Jan Coates! Jan will be reading her picture book, Sky Pig—a heartwarming and humorous story perfect for young children, but sure to charm readers of all ages. This is a wonderful opportunity for families to meet a real author, enjoy a lively storytime together, and get inspired by the magic of books. Jan will also have copies of her books available for purchase and signing after the reading. No registration required. All ages welcome. Minden Hills branch: Friday, August 15, 10:30-11am |
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Classic Summer Movie: Jurassic Park T ake a bite out of summer boredom with a roaring good time at the library! We're showing Jurassic Park, the iconic dinosaur adventure that brings prehistoric creatures back to life—with thrilling results.Join us for this action-packed Spielberg classic filled with heart-pounding excitement, unforgettable dinos, and summer blockbuster magic. Bring your favorite snacks, sit back, and enjoy the adventure! No registration required. Movie is rated PG. Parental discretion advised due to suspenseful scenes. Minden Hills branch and Dysart branch: Friday, August 15 from 2-4pm
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Bilingual StorytimeJoin us for a fun and interactive Bilingual Storytime presented in partnership with Canadian Parents for French! Families are invited to enjoy stories, songs, and rhymes shared in both English and French, perfect for children who are learning the language or simply want to explore something new. Whether you're fluent or just beginning, all are welcome to join the fun and celebrate Canada’s bilingual spirit! Great for children and caregivers to build early literacy skills, strengthen French vocabulary, and connect with others in the community through language and play. No registration required. Dysart branch: Friday, August 22 from 10:30-11am |
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Friday Afternoon Movie: Strange World
Cool off at the library with a summer movie the whole family will enjoy! We're showing Strange World (2022), a visually stunning animated adventure! Follow the legendary Clade family — a group of explorers — as they journey deep into a mysterious, hidden world filled with fantastical creatures, glowing landscapes, and unexpected surprises. You're welcome to bring your own snacks and light refreshments will be provided! No registration required. Movie is rated PG. In collaboration with the Minden Hills Cultural Centre. Minden Hills branch: Friday, August 22, 1-3pm |
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Bilingual Board Game AfternoonJoin us for a lively Bilingual Board Game Afternoon, presented in partnership with Canadian Parents for French! Families and kids of all ages are invited to play a variety of classic and new board games—in both English and French. Whether you're fluent, learning, or just curious, this is a great chance to practice language skills in a relaxed, social setting while having tons of fun. We’ll have games suitable for all ages and language levels—perfect for families, homeschoolers, and anyone who loves a little friendly competition. No registration required—drop in and game on! Dysart branch: Friday, August 22, 1-3pm |
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Stories in the Park Fun Fair Join the Haliburton County Public Library at this year’s Haliburton & District Lions Club Stories in the Park Fun Fair for a day of creativity, storytelling, and family fun under the trees at Head Lake Park! We’ll have plenty of activities for kids and families to enjoy: - Make Your Own Buttons – Get creative and design a custom button to take home.
- Craft Table – Dive into hands-on fun with story-inspired crafts for all ages.
- Puppet Naming Contest – Help us name our brand new baby orangutan puppet! Submit your best name ideas—one lucky winner will have their name chosen!
Celebrate the joy of stories, imagination, and library fun in the great outdoors. No registration required—just drop by and join the fun! Head Lake Park, Haliburton: Wednesday, August 27, 12-2pm
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Regular Children's Programs |
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Makerpacks Available at all HCPL branches while supplies last. Starting Saturday, August 2 until gone. Family Storytimes Minden Hills & Dysart branches: Fridays at 10:30am |
Homeschool Hangout Stanhope branch: Friday, August 1, 12:30-2:30pm Wilberforce branch: Friday, August 29, 10am-12pm LEGO Challenge All branches, new challenge every month |
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Youth Wellness Hub Pop UpHey teens! Come hang out with the Haliburton County Youth Wellness Hub at the library! They’ll be set up with info about all the awesome free services they offer — like counselling, peer support, drop-in programs, help with jobs and school (LIFT), and even a nurse practitioner you can talk to.
Grab a free freezie, meet the team, and find out how the Hub can help make your summer (and beyond) a little easier. No registration needed — just drop by! Dysart branch: Wednesday, August 6, 1-3pm
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Teen Blackout Poetry Workshop Want to make poetry without writing a single line? Using pages from old books, magazines, and newspapers, you’ll learn how to create powerful poems by blacking out everything except the words that speak to you. No writing experience needed—It's part art, part writing, and 100% creative expression. Expect chill vibes—low lighting and good music while you create. Whether you're feeling deep, dramatic, or just here for the black markers and a vibe, this is your space to black out the noise and let your words shine. Registration preferred, drop ins welcome. Minden Hills branch: Saturday, August 9, 2-3pm
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Rewind to the 90s: Tech Throwback Parents, ready to show your kids how you used to press play? Teens, curious what life was like before streaming and smartphones? Join us at the Minden library for a totally retro 90s tech morning—a fun and nostalgic look back at the gadgets and gear that defined a generation. Test your 90s skills as you pop a tape into a VCR (don’t forget to rewind!), load a cassette to hear the sweet sounds of the decade, and see if you can walk with a Discman without skipping your favourite track! Enjoy iconic 90s snacks like Dunkaroos, Fruit by the Foot, and more while you take a walk down memory lane! Whether you're reliving your childhood or introducing your family to the tech you grew up with, it’s the perfect way to laugh, learn, and rewind—literally. No registration required. Minden Hills branch: Saturday, August 16, 10am-12pm
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Facing the Blank Page with Author Catherine Graham Struggling to start your next piece or looking for inspiration to spark your creativity? Join award-winning author and poet Catherine Graham at the library for Facing the Blank Page, a dynamic writing workshop designed to help writers of all levels overcome creative blocks and get words flowing. Through a series of engaging poetry and prose exercises, Catherine will guide participants in exploring their voice, experimenting with language, and generating new ideas. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just beginning your journey, this workshop offers a supportive space to unlock your creativity. About the Author: Catherine Graham is a celebrated Canadian author of several poetry collections and the acclaimed novel Quarry. Her work has won numerous awards and appeared internationally in literary journals. Catherine brings years of experience to writers of all backgrounds. Registration required. Please bring a notebook and pen or your preferred writing tools. |
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Film Screening: Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story Join us for a free screening of Any Other Way: The Jackie Shane Story (2024), a powerful documentary celebrating the life and legacy of Jackie Shane, a Black transgender soul singer who broke barriers in the 1960s music scene. Through rare archival footage, intimate interviews, and unforgettable performances, this film tells the inspiring story of Shane’s bold self-expression, musical brilliance, and lasting cultural impact. It’s a moving tribute to a trailblazer who lived life entirely on her own terms. Executive producer, Elliot Page. No registration required. The film is provided courtesy of the National Film Board of Canada, in collaboration with the Minden Hills Cultural Centre. Minden Hills branch: Tuesday, August 19, 12:30-2:30pm
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Meet the Author: Mary Gage Join us for a captivating morning with Marie Gage, a local author known for her emotionally rich storytelling and strong, character-driven narratives. Marie will share selections from her work, including a special reading from her newest novel, A Touch of Promise, and talk about the inspiration behind her stories. She’ll also offer insight into her writing journey — from first drafts to publication. Marie Gage is the author of several novels, including Promise of the Hawk, Finding Jane, and A Ring of Promises. Her books explore themes of resilience, connection, and personal growth, often set against the backdrop of Canadian landscapes and historical moments. Books will be available for purchase, and Marie will be happy to sign copies after the reading. Free to attend — no registration required. Dysart branch: Saturday, August 23, 11am-12pm |
Adult Ukulele Groups Minden Hills branch: Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm Stanhope branch: Tuesdays, 4-5:30pm French Conversation Circle Dysart branch: Wednesday, August 6 & 20, 6-6:50pm |
Movie Club Cardiff branch: Saturday, August 9, 2:30pm Crafternoon Drop-In Stanhope branch: Wednesday, August 20, 1-3pm Stanhope Book Club Wednesday, August 27, 1pm Gooderham Book Club Tuesday, August 26, 11am |
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