Why Libraries Are Loved

As we celebrate Ontario Public Library Week, October 18 to 24, we're thrilled to welcome author Joyce Grant, whose latest book, This Is A Library Book, is a love letter to libraries and librarians throughout history. In a fireside chat with Ontario Library Association president and Burlington Public Library CEO Lita Barrie, Grant discusses how these beloved institutions have long helped communities and why they are more essential than ever. While most of us have been to a library, not everyone knows how broad the definition of a library can be. Recently awarded a Kirkus Review star, This Is A Library Book covers everything from the history of libraries and their functions to unusual libraries, such as secret or travelling libraries. And what ties it all together is a simple but powerful message: everyone everywhere deserves access to information and stories—and to a library! A Different Drummer Books will be on-site with books for sale and signing after the talk. About Joyce Grant Joyce Grant has written eight books, including Can You Believe It? How to Spot Fake News and Find the Facts , each of which won a Hamilton Literary Award. She co-founded the kid-friendly news website, TeachingKidsNews.com and received a Gold Press Freedom Teaching Award from Global Youth & News Media in 2023. Trained in journalism with a Master’s in Creative & Critical Writing, she teaches at Humber Polytechnic, is a book coach, and reviews books for Publishers Weekly. Explore Joyce Grant in our collection About Lita Barrie Lita Barrie joined Burlington Public Library as chief executive officer in 2018 after holding senior roles at Brantford, Grimsby, and Hamilton public libraries. She holds a Master of Library & Information Studies and is a frequent presenter and lecturer at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Information. Lita currently serves as president of the Ontario Library Association and board chair of the Canadian Federation of Library Associations/Fédération canadienne des associations de bibliothèques. Accessibility If you need an accessibility accommodation during this program, please register early so we can confirm arrangements a few days before your visit.

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