Throughout 2024, Reid-Thompson’s Public Library has continued to offer a diverse range of programs and events, ensuring there's something for everyone in the community. From interactive story times for young children to creative outlets for adults, the library’s calendar is packed with activities that inspire, educate, and entertain.
A cornerstone of the library’s offerings is its weekly Mini Sunshine Storytime and Size Small Storytime, which provide interactive experiences for young children and infants. These story times often feature musical instruments, puppets, and crafts, fostering an early love of learning. Additionally, the Adult Book Club has remained a popular gathering, where participants can share thoughts, opinions, and recommendations on a variety of books.
For teens and young adults, the Teen Subscription Boxes have become a beloved service. Every month, library staff carefully select books for subscribers, who also receive a small treat to enjoy alongside their reading material. This service runs year-round, offering a personalized reading experience for local youth.
Craft enthusiasts, both young and old, have found plenty to engage in as well. The Drop-in Kids Craft program allows children to explore their creativity, with new projects and activities introduced every two weeks. The Creative Croppers, a local scrapbooking group, frequently utilizes the library’s program room to host their monthly sessions, creating a space for the community to connect through their shared passion for scrapbooking.
In addition to these ongoing programs, the library has hosted a variety of special events throughout the year. In January, Chair Fitness sessions began, providing light exercise for adults and seniors. February saw the return of the Puzzle Exchange, allowing patrons to swap puzzles with one another, while March brought a popular Book Sale, where gently used books were sold to raise funds for future library initiatives.
As the year progressed, new offerings such as Little Builders in February, which encourages the development of young children, and Anime Movie Night in June, which offered teens the chance to enjoy anime films together, added excitement to the library’s lineup. Families were also delighted by events like the SK Reptile Show and the Petting Zoo, which brought hands-on learning experiences to the library’s visitors.
Summer months brought fun-filled activities as part of the Toronto Dominion Summer Reading Club (TDSRC), where participants set reading goals, enjoyed crafts, and earned prizes. In August, a Magic Show by Danny Kazam dazzled attendees, and in December, the Child Expo and Toy Swap provided a local community event to finish off the year.
The fall months featured calming and reflective programs like Meditation, helping participants learn to relax and manage stress. October's Paint Night was a creative opportunity for the community to get into the Halloween spirit, while the Book Sale in both October and March provided great deals for book lovers.
Throughout the year, Reid-Thompson’s Library has also focused on providing opportunities for personal growth and wellness, with recurring French Classes in May and June, as well as the consistent Chair Fitness sessions, which cater to seniors and adults looking for gentle physical activity.
With a variety of events spanning across every season, the library continues to be a vibrant hub of learning, creativity, and connection. Whether through its beloved story times, engaging programs for teens, or community-centered activities, Reid-Thompson’s Public Library has made 2024 a year to remember for all ages.