Library is ‘more than books’ and the proof is in the programming

The tagline “more than just books” appears beside our library logo and it is absolutely true. Our number of programs, for example, has increased 116 per cent over the last two years with a 54-per-cent jump in attendance. This was done with existing resources, which seems pretty impressive to me. (I don’t mind boasting about it since other people at the library did the work and deserve the credit.)

If you didn’t know, programs are events which happen in the library (or occasionally out in the community) which are open to everyone. There are some good ones coming up that you might consider checking out.

We show lots of free movies in our film theatre and I’m looking forward to “Ready Player One “on Aug. 18 (this Saturday) at 2 p.m. This movie got great reviews and it seems like it only just left the commercial theatres.

A program called “Bike Stories” is coming to the library at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 30. A number of Hatters will be showing off their bikes and telling stories about memorable rides. It is mostly motorcycles but there will be at least one bicycle involved. Why? Because I happen to be mad for anything with two wheels and this happens to be the first program I am personally hosting. After the presentation there will be a show and shine on the library lawn. Some interesting machinery will be on display — bring your bike down and you might win a free tank of gas.

On Sunday, Sept. 2 at 1 p.m., we will screen the CFL Labour Day Classic between the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Our family friendly theatre is a great alternative to sports bars if you want a huge screen and the company of other fans. As a public library we don’t take sides so the colour blue will be grudgingly accepted. (Sorry for that, Winnipeg.)

Knee high sports fans will also be interested in a Tigers Hockey storytime that’s coming Sept. 11 at 6 p.m. Several Tigers players and Rroary the Tiger will be on hand. Registration is required for this one so give us a call beforehand.

We host lots of travelogues where people describe the places they have visited and a special one about Haida Gwaii is coming Sept. 12. These islands are incredible and the presenter will also talk about Ocean Bridge, an ocean conservation program focused on microplastic pollution. Sounds interesting.

Pride Week is coming to Medicine Hat in September and the library will have a table at the event with activities such as buttonmaking. We will also be showing LGBTQ+ films in our theatre.

Finally, our third Cat Café! is returning Oct. 20 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Registration is required. This was our most successful program ever before the awesome Mark Sakamoto broke all records. Why are cats so popular? I have no idea!

Ken Feser is chief librarian at the Medicine Hat Public Library.