Library Tour
In August, David met with Julia Stewart, director of the Fredericton Public Library, to tour the newly renovated space and learn what the library has been up to in the community over the last six months. Julia showed him firsthand how the Library is linking organizations to the community and how library space is being used for more than just books.
The public library has been hosting workshops, coffee houses and cooking tutorials for those interested in learning new skills and fostering a healthy community. With a grant from the Fredericton Community Foundation, plans are in the works to begin an ‘Experts in Residence’ program to share specialized skills with the community.
A partnership has been fostered with the NB Community Harvest Gardens to launch a Seed Library where people can access and borrow seeds at the beginning of the season, learn methods of harvesting these seeds, and return them come harvest time. The entire project is helping to make gardening accessible to all people regardless of prior knowledge or property ownership.
Julia wants the public library to serve as a comfortable place to house and share knowledge in all its forms. From cozy reading rooms to ukulele jam sessions and knitting circles, the public library is creating learning spaces and opportunities for the people of Fredericton.
To get involved, check out the following list of community events and activities. (http://www1.gnb.ca/0003/pages/en/biblio-e.asp?code=YF)