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Happy Holidays from all of us at the Muskoka Lakes Public Library!
We wish you a warm, restful season—and plenty of time to enjoy something great from the library. We have lots to look forward to this month, and we hope you’ll stop by to stock up on books, movies, and games for the holidays, join us for a program, or simply drop in to say hello.
Please note our adjusted Holiday Hours: Port Carling will be closed at 1:00 p.m. on December 24th and December 31st; both branches will be closed from December 25th to December 29th, and again on January 1st. All other hours remain unchanged. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our website.
As winter weather arrives, we’ll make every effort to update our website and social media promptly with any closures or cancellations. If conditions are poor, please check online or call the branch you’re headed to before venturing out. Stay safe, and we look forward to seeing you this season! |
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The snow and ice are coming, but we've got a nice warm indoor space for you!
Join us at the Bala branch, making use of the Community Centre space, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Mondays, for a relaxed indoor drop-in space.
Walk a few laps indoors, sit and do a puzzle, play some cards or board games, or just enjoy a warm place to unwind. A Nintendo Switch will be set up after school for anyone who wants to play!
All ages welcome; light, easygoing activity—come and go as you like. |
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Come to the Port Carling branch to create some holiday cards with other crafty adults. All supplies and materials provided, just bring your creativity!
*pre-registration is required |
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Merry Mingle with the MLPL Board and Staff
Drop in to the Norma and Miller Alloway Muskoka Lakes Library (Port Carling Branch) for a casual Merry Mingle with the MLPL Board and staff.
Listen to some carols, play some games, chat about library services and ideas for the future, and enjoy some light refreshments in a relaxed, festive atmosphere. Everyone is welcome—stop by for a few minutes or stay and visit! |
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Story Time at the Library
Every Wednesday drop in to the Port Carling branch from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for a social half hour of free play followed by a structured half hour of story and song. This program is intended for babies and tots and their caregiver.
Join us on December 17th for a special Story Time at our Port Carling branch. A holiday guest will be joining us around 11:00 AM! |
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Tuesday December 23rd & Tuesday December 30th
| Unleash your creativity this holiday season, or just unwind at the library. Come to the Port Carling branch between 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. to relax and socialize at the library.
We will be offering a hands-on craft activity in Port Carling, full access to our LEGO collection, and from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. we will be screening a family friendly film, popcorn included!
No need to register, just drop in during the program and have fun!
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Story Time
Wednesdays in Port Carling December 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Art Studio for Youth Saturdays in Port Carling, December 6th, 13th, 20th
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM *pre-registration is required
Creative Kids Club Saturdays in Port Carling, December 6th, 13th
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM *pre-registration is required
The Library Lounge Tuesday in Port Carling December 23rd, 30th
11:30 AM - 3:30 PM |
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Tech 1-on-1
1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month, December 2nd, 16th in Port Carling, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM *pre-registration is required
Mah Jongg, Euchre and MORE! Thursdays in Port Carling,
December 4th, 11th, 18th 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Knitting Group Thursdays in Port Carling, December 4th, 11th, 18th
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Let's Get Crafty - Adult Card Making
Thursday December 4th in Port Carling, 5:30 PM - 6:45 PM *pre-registration is required
Intro to Yoga in the Library with Candice Thursday December 11th, in Port Carling
6:00 PM - 6:45 PM *pre-registration is required
Artworks for Adults Friday December 12th, in Port Carling
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Saturday December 20th, in Port Carling 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
*pre-registration is required
Small Talk
Tuesday December 16th, in Port Carling Clodagh - 16m
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Book Club
Wednesday December 17th, Books being discussed: Any book in the "Classics" genre in Port Carling
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Seniors' Lunch and Learn
Friday December 19th in Port Carling, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM *pre-registration is required |
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You can place a hold on any of these items by logging in to your account on the top right of our catalogue search page.
You can even tell us which branch you'd like to pick your item(s) up at, either Bala or Port Carling!
Not interested in doing it yourself? Just send us an email info@mlpl.ca or give us a call at 705-765-5650 and staff will be happy to help! |
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(DVD)
Based on Frederick Forsyth's acclaimed novel, The Day of The Jackal, follows an elite assassin, known as the Jackal as he works towards carrying out a seemingly impossible hit. However, his actions soon attract the attention of a British intelligence officer, Bianca, who sets out to hunt him down before his next kill. The Day of The Jackal is a twisting, high-octane thriller about two highly skilled operatives engaging in espionage, subterfuge, and violence, as they stop at nothing to achieve their goals. |
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by Dick Van Dyke(Adult non-fiction book)
On the eve of his 100th birthday, international treasure Dick Van Dyke brings us this autobiographical collection of life advice, stories, and reflections on how he’s maintained good health and a zest for life as he enters his 11th decade.
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by T. Jefferson Parker(Adult fiction book)
In Wild Instinct, detective Lew Gale is assigned to track and shoot a mountain lion that has killed a man in Caspers Park, California. The investigation takes a chilling turn when Lew discovers that the man was dead long before the lion got to him. And while the man might have been the first to die, he certainly will not be the last. |
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by Jan Brett(Juvenile picture book)
Drawing inspiration from Greek mythology, Jan Brett’s story of the bond between boy and dog radiates warmth and charm, while her signature border details hint at a final Christmas miracle sure to wow any crowd. |
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by Eric Walters(Juvenile fiction book)
In this middle-grade novel, Harmony moves back home with her mom after being in a foster home, but her mom hasn't dealt with her addiction issues and Harmony feels like she's the only one keeping her and her mom together. |
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by Nadia Hohn(Juvenile picture book)
Acclaimed author Nadia L. Hohn's rhythmic writing pays homage to a quintessential Jamaican delicacy and explores the experiences of immigrants, as well as the traditions that connect us. Vibrantly illustrated and rich in sensory details, this picture book is a warm, comforting reminder of the meaning of home. |
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Each month we will include a title or two that a staff member has recently read. Yes, we could call it Staff Picks, but where's the alliterative fun in that?
So, without further ado, please enjoy Rachel's Reading Room! |
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by Hanya Yanagihara(Adult fiction book)
Set in New York City, A Little Life follows the story of a group of college friends as they embark on the rest of their lives. As the novel progresses, you come to find out that the little life in question belongs to Jude St. Francis and it is his story that is featured. A little life is not a beach read, it is a haunting reminder of the lasting effects of abuse and the complexities of growing up. But those willing to tackle the journey (over 700 pages), will not regret picking up this book. |
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by Neil deGrasse Tyson(Adult non fiction book)
As someone with a limited background in general science, and an even smaller understanding of astrophysics, I was slightly worried when I picked up this book. However, Tyson breaks down the theories of the cosmos into digestible pieces. It is far from a dry read, as he blends academic jargon with his own witty writing style. This book leaves you with a basic understanding of why, as Tyson puts it, “the universe is under no obligation to make sense to you.” |
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Grief Kits |
Later this month, the Muskoka Lakes Public Library—working in partnership with Andy’s House (Hospice Muskoka)—will begin offering Grief Kits for children, teens, and adults. Each kit includes supportive reading materials, grounding tools, and Hospice Muskoka resources to help anyone experiencing grief. Ask staff for details.
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Home Delivery Service Pilot Project |
The Muskoka Lakes Public Library will begin accepting registrations for a pilot Home Delivery Service later this month.
This monthly service is designed to support community members who may have difficulty visiting the library due to mobility challenges, illness, caregiving responsibilities, or transportation barriers.
As part of the pilot, all deliveries must be made to a safe, accessible exterior location (such as a front porch, lobby, or designated drop-off point). Deliveries will be weather-permitting and may be adjusted to ensure staff safety during severe conditions.
A simple sign-up form and more information will be available later this month. |
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New Yoto players, updated bundles, and individual cards to borrow! |
We’re excited to refresh our Yoto collection this month. We'll be adding a couple of new Yoto players for checkout, each available in a bundle with a selection of music cards—perfect for road trips, quiet time, or creative listening at home!
We’re also updating our current Yoto bundles and will soon be offering individual Yoto cards that you can borrow and play on your own device.
It’s a great way to try new stories and songs without needing to check out a full kit.
Stay tuned for availability and details on how to borrow! |
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In Case You Missed our latest Library of Things Additions last month...
Happy Light – boost your mood with a little extra light this winter. Heavy Duty Coin Sorter/Counter – make quick work of loose change (supply your own coin rolls) Meta VR Headset – step into virtual worlds without leaving home Cricut Explore 4 - Available to book for in-house use! Bring your own supplies and get creating! Need a tutor? Staff will be available to teach 1-on-1 sessions, similar to our Tech 1-on-1 program.
Plus, explore favourites already in the collection like walking poles, binoculars, parks passes and more! |
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1hr 18 minutes - via kanopy
Noel, a heartbroken Christmas-tree salesman, returns to New York City hoping to put his past behind him. Living in a trailer and working the night shift, he begins to spiral downwards until the saving of a mysterious woman and some colorful customers rescue him from self-destruction. |
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