A common refrain among library users is, “When I first moved to the area, the first place I visited was the public library.” Libraries are natural first steps, as welcoming places with friendly faces, community information, and groups and clubs to join.  

To facilitate connections among people new to the area, we’re pleased to announce the return of the Newcomers Group this fall.

This group meets at the Picton Branch Library. There is social time and guest speakers from community groups and volunteer organizations. A great way to learn your way around in the company of other newcomers.

Previous iterations of the group have led to lasting friendships sustained with book clubs and dinner clubs. Thanks to Judy Silverberg, who discovered both the library and the broader community through her own participation as a newcomer in 2018, the group will start again starting Wednesday 9 October at 10:00 a.m. and meet weekly.  Anyone is welcome, but we do ask for registration to help us anticipate numbers. Contact Judy by email: judyinpicton@gmail.com to register and for more information.

There are many other library groups should you be looking for more engagement. Two French groups are currently welcoming new members. One is French Conversation, which meets weekly each Thursday. The first Thursday of the month, the group meets in person at the Picton Branch and the other three weeks of each month, online through Zoom.  The group is best suited for people with some French experience already.

There is also a French Reading and Discussion Group for experienced speakers with intermediate or advanced level skills. The group meets Monday on Zoom with occasional in personal meet-ups. They read part of a book in French each week and discuss the chapters in the meetings. Register at peclibrary.org.

Another way to meet people is by joining the Friends of the Library.  New members are always welcome. Friends of the Library are volunteer groups who support, champion, and advocate for the Library. Their efforts help the Library offer programs, improve the branches and so much more. Find out more by visiting peclibrary.org/friends.

If you are interested in hosting a group of your own, the Picton Branch Library has several meeting rooms of various sizes with technology to make meetings easier (including microphones and screens). The rooms are fully accessible and free of charge. If you are interested in touring the spaces or would like to reserve a time, contact Ella at (613) 476-5962. The Wellington Branch meeting room is also available and can be reserved at (613) 399-2023.