| Description (Service) |
COVID-19 Update - For updated information visit: Service during COVID-19
- Both the Downtown and Painswick locations of the Barrie Public Library are open for in-person visits with spaces and services updated to support the health, safety and comfort of all visitors
- in-person service will include mandatory face coverings, physical distancing practices, strict cleaning protocols with ongoing sanitization of high traffic surfaces and the quarantining of returned materials
- browse the aisles for books, movies and more or get help from staff, to quickly find what you need
- access the digital library with a 60-minute session on the public computers or with your own device and free
wi-fi - printing, scanning and photocopying as well as wireless and remote printing is available
- in-library visits should be brief and no longer than an hour to ensure equitable access to our entire community
- Book an appointment for low contact Express Pickup of material
- Return slots are open 24/7 at both locations,, please note that returned material will be quarantined for at least 3 days before they are checked in
- there are no late fees for overdue items
- virtual programs
- To get up-to-date and accurate information regarding the COVID-19 outbreak and how you can reduce the spread of the virus access the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit
Regular Service
Provides informational, recreational and cultural resources for all ages
Resources/Services include: - books, magazines, compact discs, newspapers, maps, DVDs, Electronic books, downloadable audiobooks, magazines and movies, and Internet access (including wireless)
- online databases on many topics available through the library website and from computers within the library
- multilingual materials
- computers with Office 2007 (Word, Excel, Powerpoint) and internet access are available for public use
- Brainfuse HelpNow online tutoring available with Library membership. Knowledgeable tutors provide help in a wide variety of subjects like math, science, social studies, English language arts, and Canadian and world history. Tutors are available every day from 2 pm-11 pm and can provide help in English and French from elementary to postsecondary
- 2 accessible workstations are available with Office 2010
- Talking Book Service, Large Print Book Collection, and CELA materials available to library users who, due to a visual, physical, or learning disability, cannot use conventional print materials
- Library newsletter is available through the website in a version for the visually impaired
- print Braille for children
- specialized unit which magnifies print material for the visually impaired
- a walker and a wheelchair are available to use in the library
- Visiting Library Service available to individuals who cannot visit the library in person
- local history collection, including local newspapers on Microfilm/fiche, Births/Deaths/Marriages indexes, microfilm/fiche reader/printers at Downtown Branch
- musical instrument library in partnership with the Huronia Symphony Orchestra at Downtown Branch
- library collection of the Ontario Genealogical Society, Simcoe County Branch at Downtown Branch
Programs include: - programs for children and teens including children's storytime programs, Teen Writers Group and Summer Reading Programs
- programs for adults including internet and email workshops, workshops to introduce specialized online resources, as well as information sessions on many topics from health to travel to business
- book clubs for adults, teens and children are offered September-June
- library tours, please book in advance
Information Barrie - operates as a community information and referral service
- maintains the Information Barrie Community Directory of community organizations/services including non-profit agencies, government offices, health services, clubs and special interest organizations, volunteer opportunities, daycare services and support groups in the Barrie area
- Directory is available through the library website, see separate record
Annual Barrie Dragon Boat Festival - held in August and involves Dragon boat races and land-based activities in support of this event
- the Festival is in support of Barrie Public Library plus other local charities
Ontario Library Week (formerly Ontario Public Library Week) is in October
Canadian Library Month is the month of October
Chief Executive Officer is Lauren Jessop, lauren.jessop@barrielibrary.ca |
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barriepubliclibrary
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BPL_inthecity
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/barrielibrary