October is National Library Month and Yukon Public Libraries is joining libraries across the country in celebrating and raising awareness of the valuable role of libraries.
Libraries provide more than just books. Libraries promote cultural awareness, strengthen community, provide educational programs and support expression.
During this Library Month, Yukon libraries will highlight the many benefits of our new online catalogue, which launched in July. The new catalogue features automatic renewals, saves reading histories, gives reading recommendations and allows users to acquire a library card online.
Throughout the month, Whitehorse Public Library will also host Story Time Tuesday, French story time/L’heure du conte on Wednesdays, library tours and the Indigenous book club in partnership with the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, plus much more.
The Yukon government encourages everyone to use and learn about the resources provided at the library. Stay tuned to the Yukon Public Library social media channels to learn more about the exciting opportunities happening throughout October.
Our government encourages everyone to enjoy the collections in all 15 community libraries during National Library Month and throughout the year. Since our government removed late fees, Yukoners have even more reason to take advantage of these valuable public spaces. Libraries are a vital service, and we look forward to welcoming new and returning Yukoners to these valuable public spaces.
Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn
Yukon Public Libraries transitioned to a new online catalogue to make navigating online resources easier and to introduce new features.
Celebrations for the 2023 Library Month came early for Yukon Public Libraries as late fees were permanently eliminated in September.
In eliminating late fees, Yukon Public Libraries hope to see an increase of patrons visiting the libraries.
There are 15 community libraries throughout the Yukon.
Whitehorse Public Libraries are not the only library celebrating Library Month. The Energy Mines and Resources library will be holding an open house on Oct. 19, 12-3 pm, at the Elijah Smith Building, to celebrate the library’s 20th anniversary.
In person events
Whitehorse Public Library
Library week:
A contest and an author event in partnership with the Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre.
Featuring : Natalie Pendergast
Oct. 18, 6-7 pm
Whitehorse comic artist shares vignettes of pregnancy and motherhood in a world where women are expected to do it all. An evening of food, discussion and candor.
Story time Tuesdays – 10:30-11:30 am
Songs, stories and rhymes for ages 0-5 and caregivers.
French story time/L’heure du conte Wednesdays – 10:30-11:30 am
Songs, stories, and movement in French for ages 2-4 and caregivers.
Library tours – Whitehorse Public Library offers group tours for all ages and abilities. Learn about how to use the library, what you can get, and most of all, have fun. Call 867-667-5239 to arrange a time.
Pathfinder – Thursdays starting Oct. 19, 3:30-7 pm
A drop-in role-playing game for youth aged 11-17. No experience is required. All supplies, plus snacks are provided.
Indigenous book club in partnership with the KDCC – Upcoming: David A. Robertson, author of The Theory of Crows, November 30, 7 pm, online. Copies of The Theory of Crows will be available to borrow from Whitehorse Public Library and upon request to community libraries in October. Patrons with a library card can also borrow the e-book or e-audiobook from the Libby app with no wait times for the duration of this program.
Haines Junction Library
Bi-monthly story time: Currently taking place every other Friday, this event will transition to weekly in October. It offers engaging story sessions for children.
Lego Club: A creative space where Lego enthusiasts can gather, build and share their creations.
Dawson City Library
Berton House author readings: [from the Writer’s Trust] “Located in the childhood home of iconic Canadian author and Writers’ Trust co-founder Pierre Berton, it has operated as a writers’ residency since 1996 and has been owned and operated by Writers’ Trust since 2007.” During their residency, each writer does one reading at the Dawson City Library, and one at the Whitehorse Library.
Write Club: This program is split into two segments, catering to both children and adults. It encourages local and aspiring authors in Dawson to cultivate their writing skills and share their work.
Burwash Landing Library
Kluane First Nation Language Programs: The library offers unwavering support and a dedicated display for the ongoing language programs of the Kluane First Nation, encouraging linguistic and cultural preservation through various displays and resources.
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Wayne Potoroka
Communications, Community Services
867-332-9472
wayne.potoroka@yukon.ca