WHAT'S ON AT THE LIBRARY

MAY 2025
Adults
Friends of Collingwood Public Library
 
Who are the Friends?
We are a volunteer organization that helps enhance the services, programs and resources of the Collingwood Public Library by raising funds and promoting the library in the community. We operate independently, yet collaboratively with the library.
 
Being part of the Friends group means you can:
  • Be part of a team that helps make a difference in your community
  • Use and/or develop your skills in teamwork, organization, event planning, marketing, and communications
Become a friend, learn more HERE.
friends@collingwoodpubliclibrary.ca
Community Volunteer Fair
Thursday, May 1 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Third Floor, Community Rooms B&C
 
In celebration of National Volunteer Week, the Collingwood and area community is invited to discover ways to make a difference at the upcoming Volunteer Fair, hosted by Collingwood Public Library, E3Community Services, South Georgian Bay Community Health Centre and Collingwood Marine General Hospital.
 
This event offers a unique opportunity for residents to connect with local non-profits and explore diverse volunteer opportunities that align with their passions and skills.
Superstorms of Ontario
Presented by: David T. Chapman
Friday, May 2 at 4:00 p.m. *All ages
Community Rooms B&C
 
Photographer David T. Chapman presents Superstorms of Ontario. This thrilling visual presentation will feature a wide variety of severe weather including thunderstorms, ice storms, wind storms, snow storms and solar storms all from the beautiful province of Ontario
 
Register HERE.
Big Book Sale & Membership Drive
Saturday, June 21 & Sunday, June 22
Community Rooms B & C
* Accepting book donations on Wednesdays in May!

Our fundraising efforts continue, come help us raise funds for our off-site book vending machine and consider getting a membership to the Collingwood Public Library while you're there! 
National Day of Awarenes for Missing and
Murdered Indigeneous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People.
Monday, May 5

Also known as Red Dress Day, we honour and bring awareness to the thousands of Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People who are missing and whose lives have been lost. 
For more information, please read Reclaiming Power and Place HERE.
National MMIWG2S Support Line for immediate emotional assistance: 1-844-413-6649
Check out our Red Dress Day Reading list for physical book resources HERE.
International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia
Saturday, May 17
 
This year’s theme is The Power of Communities which celebrates the diversity and richness within 2SLGBTQIA+ communities as well as their strength and resilience.
  
Find out more HERE.
Check out our reading list for book resources HERE.
Repair Café
Friday, May 9 from 12:00 to 2:30 p.m.
FreeSchools Room. Drop-in
 
Bring your item to be repaired. Toss it away, no way, join us at the Repair Café. You will watch and learn as our volunteer fixers tend to your treasure.
Life Coach Lin
Monday, May 12 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
 
Join Life Coach Lin as she gives examples and scenarios to get you going on setting and achieving your transitions and goals. All are welcome.
 
Register HERE.
Moose Hide Campaign Day
Thursday, May 15, 2025
 
The campaign is grounded in Indigenous ceremony and traditional ways of learning and healing. A cornerstone of the Moose Hide Campaign is the moose hide pin. Wearing the pin signifies your commitment to honour, respect, and protect the women and children in your life and speak out against gender-based and domestic violence.

Everyone is invited to take part in this campaign regardless of age, gender and background. Check out our book display in the front foyer to see relevant reads and grab Moose Hide pins to be a part of the conversation.
 
Learn more HERE.
Wander Travel Group
Friday, May 16 from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Discover New Zealand in May!
 
Armchair travel in virtual reality. Join our travel group as we explore great tourist destinations around the world.
 
Register HERE.
Story Walk
Start at the Station Museum at 45 St. Paul Street and follow the Train Trail to Collins Street
 
May is Museum Month, coming to the path soon will be "Finding Treasure: A Collection of Collections" by Michelle Schaub.
Fierté Simcoe Pride Social
Wednesday, May 21 at 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Drop-in every 3rd Wednesday of the month
 
Fierté Simcoe Pride (FSP) socials are a free, monthly drop-in for all ages who are looking for a supportive space to explore their identity, express themselves, and build community. Each month we'll have an activity/game/craft to do together while chatting about life and getting to know one another. Folks are welcome to bring their own activity to work on/share as well.
 
These events are open to all members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and allies within Simcoe County and beyond. All materials are provided, including light snacks and drinks. 
In partnership with Fierté Simcoe Pride.
Empowering and Inspiring Art Sessions
Colibri - Centre des femmes francophone du comté de Simcoe 
Friday, May 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. in FreeSchools room
 
Self-Expression Silhouettes:
In this engaging activity, participants will trace their own silhouettes and fill them with meaningful symbols, quotes, and drawings that represent their strengths and happiness. This session encourages personal reflection and offers a creative way to showcase one’s individuality.
 
All welcome 16 yrs+.
 
Register HERE.
Intro to iPads
 
Do you own an iPad and want to put it to better use? These 4-week lessons are designed for beginners and will cover the very basics.
Register HERE or call 705-445-1571.
  • Thursday, June 5, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm
  • Thursday, June 12, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm
  • Thursday, June 19, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm
  • Thursday, June 26, 2025 11:00am - 12:00pm
Georgian College
Tuesday, May 27 at 10:00 a.m.
 
Join our career planning expert in the adult area on the first floor. Drop-in.
Ukulele Lessons
Starting in May on Tuesdays 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
 
Join our 4 week ukulele lessons. For beginners and beyond. Note: We will be learning basic ukulele chords in the key of C major. 
 
Have your own ukulele? Perfect, bring it along. Looking to borrow our ukuleles, please let us know in the registration comments. Spaces are limited.
 
Register HERE *join waiting list for future lessons.
Apple Tech
Tuesdays from 1 to 2pm & Fridays 11am to 12pm
 
Need help with your Apple iPhone, iPad, iWatch, or other Apple devices and software? Have other tech questions?
Join us at the corner table in the Genealogy Section.
 
Register to reserve your spot HERE, but feel free to drop in as well!
A Little Lunch Music
Join us every 2nd & 4th Tuesday each month.
Meet at noon in the FreeSchools room
 
May 13 - Tommy Jensen
May 27 - Jason Savery
 
Give yourself a midday break, enjoy a hot drink & snack while listening to: Free ~ Live ~ Local ~ Music.
Colling/It Podcast
 
Colling/It is a CPL podcast about the people and places that make Collingwood, Ontario THE place to be. Hosted by staff dynamic duo: Jenn Perks and Jeff Cepukas.
Listen HERE.
Writers' 101
Monday, May 26 at 6:00 to 7:45 p.m.
 
New to writing?
Join our writers group for novice, and memoir writers looking for feedback and support. We meet on the fourth Monday of the month.
 
Registration recommended HERE.
Regular Ongoing Programs
 
Spanish Conversation First & Third Tuesdays at 12:00 p.m. on fourth Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. All welcome.
Chapter Two & CPL Book Clubs Fourth Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. In person. Waitlist.
Info: HERE
Writers' Collective CWC First (virtual) & Third (in person) Mondays at 6:00 p.m. 
Info: HERE
Writers 101 Fourth Monday at 6:00 p.m. In person.
New to writing.
Register: HERE
Mah-jong Mondays Weekly on Mondays at 1:00 p.m.
All levels welcome.
Info: HERE
Knitters Weekly on Wednesdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. 
in the Murray Clerkson room on the 2nd floor. 
Info: HERE
French Conversation (hybrid) Weekly on Thursdays at
1pm in the Murray Clerkson room.
Register: HERE 
Books on Wheels (BOW) Second Thursday of each month. Mobility issues? We bring the library to you.
Register: HERE
 
Technology for Beginners Wednesdays from 10:30 to
11:30 a.m. Beginner-friendly classes that promote digital literacy skills among seniors and older adults by providing technology training and support. Bring your own device.
Free to attend, drop-in:
May 7 (Located in Murray Clerkson Room) – Detecting Scams – Learn how to spot and avoid hoaxes online.
May 14 – iCloud – Discover how to use iCloud to store and backup files.
May 21 - Streaming – Discover the wonderful world of watching video and audio content over the internet.
May 28 - Digital Self-Check - Learn how your online actions shape your digital identity and how to manage it.
Coming Soon
Summer Programs for Kids
Registration opens on June 2nd between 12:00 & 1:00 p.m.
 
Visit our website to save your spot!
 
Register HERE
Feeding our Bones
Tuesday, June 3 from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Freeschools room
 
Join us to learn how to feed our bones. Strong bones are very important in our overall health and longevity.
 
Register HERE.
Author Talk: Claire Cameron
Thursday, June 5 at 7:00 p.m.
 
Join CPL in welcoming Claire Cameron, author of How to Survive a Bear Attack. Blending gripping true crime with vivid nature writing, this unforgettable book offers a fearless exploration of survival, trauma, and the human connection to the wild. This book will be defended by CPL staffer Amy Arsenio at Georgian Bay Reads on Saturday, October 25.
 
Register HERE. Space is limited.
Children
Stronger Minds
May 2 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Ages 8-12.
Freeschools room
 
Helping youth develop healthy confidence, learning to balance ego, set boundaries, and practice self-regulation — Stronger Minds is about building mental resilience!
 
Through engaging activities and discussions, Jessica and Justin of Turbo Sports + Performance will teach how to manage inner and outer voices, harness the power of the mind, and break through distractions to focus on what really matters.
 
Register HERE.
Sensory Storytime
May 30 from 10:30 to11:00 a.m.
FreeSchools room. All ages. Drop-in.
 
A welcoming storytime experience designed with a multi-sensory environment for participants to enjoy together.
Featuring Prop: Shakers
Activity/Craft: Playdough
 
During this program, we will offer a quiet corner for those who would prefer to take breaks.
Homework Help
Is your child struggling with their reading or other subjects? We are here to help!
 
To get started, email us your child's age, the subjects we can assist with, and your availability HERE.
Next, we will try to match you with one of our dedicated volunteer tutors who can provide support.
LITerally Awesome Tween Book Club Kit
First Wednesday of the month kits go out
 
Kit will include: two reading challenge options, craft and treat. If you like the book and would like to recommend it to others, write a review on the index card provided and drop off to the children’s librarian or front desk!
For youth ages 8-12 yrs. While supplies last.
Regular on-going programs:
 
Toddler Tales - Wednesdays from 10:15-10:45 am. Drop-in, 18 mos to 3yrs.
Family Storytime - Thursdays from 10:30-11:00 am. Drop-in, ages 6mos to 6yrs.
Baby & Me - Thursdays from 12:00-12:30 pm. Drop-in, birth to 18 mos.
Free Range Fun for Littles -  Fridays from 2-3pm. Suggested ages; 10mos to 2yrs.
Tech it Out Wednesdays from 4-5 pm, ages 9-12.
Chess Club - Saturdays from 10 - 11:30 am. Suggested ages 8 & up. * May 17th - final session of the season!!
Youth
Stronger Minds
May 2 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Ages 13-17
 
Helping youth develop healthy confidence, learning to balance ego, set boundaries, and practice self-regulation — Stronger Minds is about building mental resilience!
 
Through engaging activities and discussions, Jessica and Justin of Turbo Sports + Performance will teach how to manage inner and outer voices, harness the power of the mind, and break through distractions to focus on what really matters.
Playlist Swap
Monday, May 5 from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Youth Services, 2nd floor

Happy Youth Week! We're hosting a playlist swap, and you're invited to share any playlists you've created for any mood.  Come and share or come and listen, or both!
Nails & Novels 
Tuesday, May 6 from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Youth Services, 2nd floor

It's Youth Week!  Let's do our nails and talk about books.  A selection of nail polishes will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you like.
Vibe & Create
Thursday, May 8 from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m.
 
It's Youth Week!  Let's get together and create a group art project on a huge canvas.  We've got paint and loads of different materials that can be used to create unique patterns and textures.  Just bring yourself and maybe a friend or two, and see what we end up with!
LITerally Awesome Tween Book Club Kit
First Wednesday of the month kits go out
 
Kit will include: two reading challenge options, craft and treat. If you like the book and would like to recommend it to others, write a review on the index card provided and drop off to the children’s librarian or front desk!
For youth ages 8-12 yrs. While supplies last.
Community Card Project

Youth can drop in and make cards or take kit home to earn 1/2 hr of volunteer time per completed card: birthday, anniversary, thank you, congratulations and everything in between! Once your project is complete, leave it in the display case in the foyer for someone to take, and/or choose a card for your own occasion!
Regular on-going programs:
 
Nintendo Night - Friday, May 9 & 23 from 4-5 pm
VR - Friday, May 2 & 16 from 4-5 pm
Volunteer Night Now every Wednesday from 4-5 pm
Tech it Out Wednesdays from 4-5 pm, ages 9-12
Game Night - Second Tuesday from 6-8 pm
Good Ideas Club - Tuesday, May 20 from 6-8 pm
Rainbow Reads -  Wednesday, May 21 from 5-6 pm
Art Walk & Bridge Galleries
Magic of Children in the Arts
May & June, 2025
 
Grand Opening Celebration
Saturday, May 3 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
 
Every year, Magic of Children in the Arts hosts a show that features an incredible amount of creative pieces from talented local kids. We are proud to host this event, on display from May until mid-June. Next time you are in the library, tour both floors and take in all the colours, and amazing art.
 
Learn more HERE.
Donate
When you donate to Collingwood Public Library, you are making a difference in our community. Your support helps
us reach our vision of equitable access to unique services, learning opportunities, the chance to connect with one
another, and to discover something new. You can donate knowing your gift has an impact.
 
Visit the the home page of our website, press Support CPL in the top right corner of the page. Choose where you want your dollars to go, give a monthly or a one time gift, receive a receipt for tax purposes immediately to your email. We appreciate your support.
 
Donate HERE
Library Information
CLOSED for Victoria Day
Monday, May 19

The library will be open on Saturday, May 17 from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday, May 18 from 1 to 4 pm.
Hours of Operation
 
Monday           9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday          9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Wednesday     9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Thursday         9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Friday              9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday         10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday           1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Collingwood Public Library
55 Ste Marie St.
Collingwood, Ontario L9Y 0W6
705-445-1571

https://www.collingwoodpubliclibrary.ca