The Norfolk County Public Library (NCPL) is celebrating Ontario Public Library Week — a time to recognize the vital role libraries play in inspiring learning, encouraging creativity, and strengthening community connections.
Throughout the week, NCPL is spotlighting how libraries serve as hubs for growth and engagement, while also exploring new ways to better meet the needs of local residents.
Kent says the library recently adjusted branch hours in response to public feedback — a reflection of their commitment to listening and adapting.
She adds that staff will be visiting branches across the county all week, inviting patrons to share ideas and suggestions. Kent offers an example of what that might look like.
Community Engagement Coordinator Jennifer Carrier will be touring all five branches, starting today (Monday) in Simcoe. She’ll be speaking directly with visitors about what they’d like to see from their local library.
Carrier emphasizes that while the library is always looking for ways to improve, they’re also mindful not to duplicate services unnecessarily — which is why public input is so important.
For more than 150 years, NCPL has been a welcoming space for connection, discovery, and lifelong learning. Its five branches — located in Delhi, Port Dover, Port Rowan, Simcoe, and Waterford — each serve unique communities with distinct needs.
Kent notes that visiting each location is essential, because what works in Delhi may not be what Port Dover needs.
This year’s theme, Libraries for Life, celebrates the enduring support libraries offer through every stage of life — from early literacy to senior engagement.
Ontario Public Library Week Drop-In Schedule:
- Monday, Oct. 20 – Simcoe Branch, 3:00–6:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, Oct. 21 – Delhi Branch, 2:00–5:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, Oct. 22 – Port Dover Branch, 1:00–4:00 p.m.
- Thursday, Oct. 23 – Waterford Branch, 3:00–6:00 p.m.
- Friday, Oct. 24 – Port Rowan Branch, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
For a full list of events and programs during Ontario Public Library Week, visit ncpl.ca and check the library’s online calendar.