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Libraries

The library is a great place to go to connect with the community.  Libraries are an ideal location to grow your English language skills outside a formal classroom.  Library staff are also important links to information and resources about the community you are living in.  Most municipalities have a library, and many have more than one location, making it easier to visit.

Library services are generally free; however, you will need to become a member by applying for a library card.  To get a library card, often you need to show current identification with your name and address, identifying you live in the area.  You will want to get a library card for every member of your family!

As a member of the library, you have access to many resources and services.

Information and Referral


Library staff are able to share information about local community resources.  Many libraries are able to connect you with specific programs and services in the community.  Some settlement agencies may visit libraries regularly and you may be able to connect with relevant support systems in your local library.  Some libraries host conversation circles that may help you practice English speaking skills.  Most libraries also host Mango, a software application that can help you learn English.

Library and Reference Collections


Most people think about books when they think about libraries.  There are multiple collections, including fiction, non-fiction, magazines, newspapers, and reference materials like dictionaries and atlases.  Depending on the library, there may be books available in languages in other languages.  Libraries are a great place to access books that keep you and your family connected to your mother tongue.  Collections also include DVDs, and CDs, and music.

Children’s Programs


Every library has a menu of programs specifically designed for children and youth.  Each library designs programs that are most relevant to the community they serve, but often include storytelling groups, toy libraries, craft and play programs with a goal of stretching young minds, encouraging reading skills, and connecting with our children living nearby.

Through volunteering you can:

  • Practice English or French
  • Meet new people
  • Gain Canadian work experience
  • Locate potential job leads
  • Learn new skills
  • Develop existing skills
  • Feel more connected to the community

Adult Programs


Libraries are a great place for immigrants to make connections with other people living in their community.  Libraries offer many programs for adults including book clubs (are a great place to practice English reading and speaking skills).  Other programming is community specific and offers creative ways for adults to connect along many interest levels.  Check out the library closest to you to find out groups that you may wish to connect with.

Technology


Every library has a number of computers with free public internet access, including the ability to print documents (there may be a cost to printing).  Some libraries have e-readers for loan purposes.

Libraries in Simcoe County


Most people think about books when they think about libraries.  There are multiple collections, including fiction, non-fiction, magazines, newspapers, and reference materials like dictionaries and atlases.  Depending on the library, there may be books available in languages in other languages.  Libraries are a great place to access books that keep you and your family connected to your mother tongue.  Collections also include DVDs, and CDs, and music.

​60 Worsley St
Barrie, ON L4M

705-728-1010

48 Dean Ave
Barrie, ON L4N 0C2

705-728-1010

Barrie Public Library Website

150 Mkade Kegwin Miikaan
Christian Island, ON L9M 0A9

705-247-2255

Beausoleil First Nation Public Library. Christian Island Website ​

425 Holland St W
Bradford, ON L3Z 0J2

905-775-3328

Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library Website ​

6147 Rama Rd
Rama, ON L3V 6H6

705-325-3611 Ext 1480

165 Library St
Creemore, ON L0M 1G0

705-466-3011

Clearview Public Library Website ​

201 Huron St
Stayner, ON L0M 1S0

705-428-3595

Clearview Public Library Website ​

5237 County Rd 9
New Lowell, ON L0M 1N0

705-424-6288

Clearview Public Library Website

31 Coldwater Rd
Coldwater, ON L0K 1E0

705-686-3601

Coldwater Memorial Public Library Website

55 Ste Marie St
Collingwood, ON L9Y 0W6

705-445-1571

Collingwood Public Library Website ​

8505 County Road 10, Unit 1
Angus, ON L0M 1B1

705-424-6531

Essa Public Library Website ​

34 Robert St
Thornton, ON L0L 2N0

705-458-2549

Essa Public Library Website ​

967 Innisfil Beach Rd
Innisfil, ON L9S 1V3

705-431-7410

Innisfil Public Library Website ​

7883 Yonge St N
Innisfil, ON L9S 1K8

705-436-1681

Innisfil Public Library Website ​

2282 4th Line
Churchill, ON L0L 1K0

705-456-2671

Innisfil Public Library Website ​

20 Church St
Cookstown, ON L0L 1L0

705-458-1273

Innisfil Public Library Website

320 King St
Midland, ON L4R 3M6

705-526-4216

Midland Public Library Website

42 Main St W
Beeton, ON L0G 1A0

905-729-3726

New Tecumseth Public Library Website

17 Victoria St E
Alliston, ON L9R 1V6

705-435-5651

New Tecumseth Public Library Website

Tottenham Community Centre
139 Queen St N
Tottenham, ON L0G 1W0

905-936-2291

New Tecumseth Public Library Website

36 Mississaga St W
Orillia, ON L3V 3A6

705-325-2338

Orillia Public Library Website

24 Simcoe St
Penetanguishene, ON L9M 1R6

705-549-7164

Penetanguishene Public Library Website

Basement of Medical Centre
3242 Ramara Rd 47
Brechin, ON L0K 1B0

705-484-0476

Ramara Township Public Library Website

5482 Hwy 12 S
Atherley, ON L3V 6H5

705-325-5776

Ramara Township Public Library Website ​

50 Queen St W
Elmvale, ON L0L 1P0

705-322-1482

Springwater Township Public Library Website ​

12 Finlay Mill Rd
Midhurst, ON L0L 1X1

705-737-5650

Springwater Township Public Library Website ​

Minesing Community Centre
2347 Ronald Rd
Minesing, ON L0L 1Y0

705-722-6440

Springwater Township Public Library Website ​

715 Fourth Ave
Port McNicoll, ON L0K 1R0

705-534-3511

Tay Township Public Library Website ​

145 Albert St
Victoria Harbour, ON L0K 2A0

705-534-3581

Tay Township Public Library Website ​

17 Thiffault St
Waubaushene, ON L0K 2C0

705-538-1122

Tay Township Public Library Website ​

120 Glenwood Dr
Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z 1A5

705-429-5481

Wasaga Beach Public Library Website ​