Me & My Library

What does Ottawa Public Library mean to you?

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  A Comforting Encounter with Roch Carrier

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  In 1954, my family moved across the river from Hull to Ottawa. We left behind a modest suburban home in Wrightville in favour of a far larger rural farm house near Hog’s Back. The property we rented was owned by the National Capital Commission. It was a hundred acres in size, came complete with a barn and other out-buildings, and boasted an apple orchard and fields planted with asparagus and rhubarb. It was wonderful. My two younger brothers and I were enrolled in the Catholic School Board’s Ecole St.Thomas d’Aquin on Bank Street We travelled to and fro twice a... Continue reading

  In 1954, my family moved across the river from Hull to Ottawa. We left behind a modest suburban home in Wrightville in favour of a far larger rural farm house near Hog’s Back. The property we rented was owned by the National Capital Commission. It was a hundred acres in size, came complete with a barn and other out-buildings, and boasted an apple orchard and fields planted with asparagus and rhubarb. It was wonderful. My two younger brothers and I were enrolled in the Catholic School Board’s Ecole St.Thomas d’Aquin on Bank Street We travelled to and fro twice a day on an Ottawa Transportation Commission bus. Space in the school was divided between Francophone and Anglophone students in roughly equal numbers. About half of the students lived, like ourselves, in Ottawa’s then rural south, many of them on dairy farms. The other students lived close by the school in Alta Vista in shiny new Campeaubuilt houses. While my mother and father were bilingual, my siblings and I did not know how to speak or read in English at the time of our move. That was about to change rapidly as we began to mingle with our peers in the neighbourhood and at school.

  Every Saturday, my parents visited their parents in Hull. Often, before continuing on their way to Hull with my younger brothers Marc and Bruno. They would drop off my brother Philippe and me at Ottawa’s children’s library. This was not the Ottawa Public Library’s (OPL) main branch on Metcalfe Street. That was an imposing stone building with wide, steep stairs leading up to heavy doors topped by a breathtaking stained glass window at the entrance. The children’s library was far more humble, an older, two-story house on Laurier Avenue. It looked much like our farm house. Philippe and I felt very comfortable there. Our Saturday arrivals coincided with that of many other children, who gathered to have a librarian read a story to them. I vividly remember listening to my first story, a book entitled The Five Chinese Brothers, by Claire Hutchet-Bishop. The illustrations were in black and white and the story was all in English, of which I did not think I understood a single word! Still, both my brother and I caught the gist of the tale. After the reading, I was successful in borrowing the same book using my newly-issued library card.

  The experience was quite a novelty for Philippe and me, as I do not believe that Hull had a public library at the time; at least one we had visited. This library in Ottawa was the first we had ever been in. We were able to borrow up to three books each. There were certainly few age appropriate French-language books available and, I expect, fewer still that might have been written by French-Canadian authors. So our selections leaned heavily towards English language books, of which there was a much larger selection, many with colourful, attractive covers. When we arrived home, my mother would translate the books into French for us, just as she read aloud her French translation, earlier on Saturday morning, of the text of the coloured comics section tucked into the fat weekend edition of the Ottawa Journal.

  That children’s library downtown was later demolished, at which point we discovered the attractions of the OPL’S Sunnyside Branch on Saturday, and of its neighbour on Bank Street, the Mayfair Theatre. Here, a Saturday matinée offered up two feature films, a serial episode, previews, a cartoon and a news clip - all for 20 cents! It was great if your preferences included musicals and cowboys movies. Initially, my enjoyment of a Mayfair matinée was somewhat diminished by my minimal understanding of the English language and the fact that I had myopia. Over time, of course, my siblings and I learned to read, speak and understand English. More slowly perhaps, French-Canadian children’s books made their way into our school rooms and home environment.

  Following a wonderful, happy career teaching classes of young children in French immersion programs, I set out to enjoy an equally fulfilling and busy retirement. One of my early volunteer jobs was as an usher at Nepean’s Centrepointe (now Meridian) Theatre. One afternoon, I volunteered as usher when the then-Librarian of Canada’s National Library, Roch Carrier, came to visit the theatre. M. Carrier is the author of the much-loved book The Hockey Sweater. Hundreds of children, mostly wearing the sweaters of NHL teams or of those they played on locally, came to listen as M. Carrier read his book. Many asked him to autograph their copies of the book brought with them from home. Following the reading, I had the good fortune of being able to chat with M.Carrier. I told him that I was a Francophone and mentioned, that growing up in our household, we had access to few, if any, French-Canadian children’s books. I told him that, in stark contrast, my husband and his siblings had read to them, or read themselves, several books by English-Canadian authors, such as Anne of Green Gables and Who Has Seen the Wind, complemented by other children’s books from Great Britain, the United States and elsewhere. I admitted that I was ashamed by the very limited access I had as a child to the enrichment of children’s literature in my first language, written by French Canadians. M. Carrier replied that he, too, had very few French-Canadian books in his household when growing up in Sainte Justine, Quebec. His family was then recovering from the Great Depression and books and libraries were neither a priority in his household nor in the province where he grew up. However, he said, he overcame this deficit as an adult.

  Ever since our meeting, I take happiness and comfort from the thought that, despite having limited access as a youngster to French-Canadian children’s literature, M. Carrier was able to author one of the most beloved children’s books yet written by a Canadian Francophone, and went on from that accomplishment to be appointed Librarian of Canada’s National Library on Wellington Street, the person in charge of curating and caring for all of the books printed in Canada and housed in that building.
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  Stittsville Library

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  Oh, let me count the ways the Stittsville Library enriches my life.

  One of the first things I did upon moving here a couple of years ago was to get my library card. I quickly learned though that borrowing dozens upon dozens of books, most of them through interlibrary loan, is just one of many ways I benefit from and enjoy this library.

  It’s not always easy to entertain a young grandchild in an apartment but thanks to the library, I can always count on a couple of pleasant play hours. Everytime we go my little one makes a beeline... Continue reading

  Oh, let me count the ways the Stittsville Library enriches my life.

  One of the first things I did upon moving here a couple of years ago was to get my library card. I quickly learned though that borrowing dozens upon dozens of books, most of them through interlibrary loan, is just one of many ways I benefit from and enjoy this library.

  It’s not always easy to entertain a young grandchild in an apartment but thanks to the library, I can always count on a couple of pleasant play hours. Everytime we go my little one makes a beeline to the glass tower of shelves to see what’s new in the ever changing guessing games; of course this is followed by reading in the child-friendly section or playing a table-top game.

  I think of the Stittsville Library as my unofficial community center. I’ve participated in several day-time and night-time workshops and presentations ( cooking with spices, MAID, presentation on immigrants by a local author, environmentally responsible burials, how to live with local wild animals and a couple of artsy workshops). These are solid ways of staying on top of personally relevant topics, learning about local resources and meeting people, essentials throughout life.

  Besides all that I have borrowed and donated puzzles and books, enjoyed the displays by local artists and the Goulbourn Historical Society and even picked up some seeds for my JoJo’s Community Garden patch. In fact this past summer was the first time I’ve ever gardened and I did not spend one penny on seeds thanks to the library. Lettuce, carrots, onions, radishes, kale, beets anyone!

  But what is especially appealing to me about the Stittsville Library is the feeling I get when I spend time there. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, familial yet professional; I think this is so because of the people skills each and every member of the staff possesses. I always look forward to saying hello to whoever is on duty, except of course when I am simply whizzing in and out. Once or twice I even enjoyed an impromptu personal conversation on a shared concern. That is exceptional. Oh! I must not forget the two times I needed to read some very old historical manuscripts but these were only available for reading inside the downtown library. I am unable to drive in city traffic so I asked if I could read the manuscripts inside the Stittsville library and such an accommodation was made for me. I truly appreciated that.

  Well, that is my personal library story. I’ve always enjoyed this public resource throughout my adult life but the Stittsville branch stands out as a true community gem.
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  AVAILABILITY

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  I LOVED THAT AT ANY TIME I WAS LOOKING FOR A BOOK, THAT i COULD FIND IT IN ONE OF THE OTTAWA LIBRARIES AND HAVE IT AVAILABILITY FOR PICK UP AT MY LOCAL LIBRARY.

  I LOVED THAT AT ANY TIME I WAS LOOKING FOR A BOOK, THAT i COULD FIND IT IN ONE OF THE OTTAWA LIBRARIES AND HAVE IT AVAILABILITY FOR PICK UP AT MY LOCAL LIBRARY.
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  Libby

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  My Library I love Libby and have been using this app to get my books for the book club that I participate in, as much as possible. Often the waiting lists are too long and in order to get some popular books I have to resort to buying them online. I received an email recently saying that it is time to renew my library card. I was puzzled because I was advised to go to a branch to do so. In the past I have been able to do it by phone. But I went and was helped by staff... Continue reading

  My Library I love Libby and have been using this app to get my books for the book club that I participate in, as much as possible. Often the waiting lists are too long and in order to get some popular books I have to resort to buying them online. I received an email recently saying that it is time to renew my library card. I was puzzled because I was advised to go to a branch to do so. In the past I have been able to do it by phone. But I went and was helped by staff who explained that I owed a $2 fine for not picking up a book that I had reserved online through Libby. I had to wonder why I had received no notice of this fine (it was too small). So I paid the fine and luckily decided to complete my online business before leaving. It was then that I learned that much had changed since last year. I had to get a new OPL app instead of just using Libby as I had before. Getting the app took two tries and assistance from the library staff because it had recently been renamed and I did not find OPL in the app store…. Now I am set til next time. I would suggest that OPL try to communicate more with its “users”. The library could be notifying us of fines through email and sending out newsletters to announce changes, such as new apps.
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  A welcoming place in our community

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  One of the first things I did (after unpacking!) when I moved to Stittsville 5 years ago was to visit the Stittsville Library. The staff are all very knowledgeable, approachable and helpful. I have been organizing a small book club for the past 3 years in Amberwood and I really appreciate being able to borrow Book Club Kits with 10 copies of the selected book and even sample discussion questions, it makes the meetings and the club successful. I’m also volunteering in the local elementary school and I always take a great picture book from the Library to share with... Continue reading

  One of the first things I did (after unpacking!) when I moved to Stittsville 5 years ago was to visit the Stittsville Library. The staff are all very knowledgeable, approachable and helpful. I have been organizing a small book club for the past 3 years in Amberwood and I really appreciate being able to borrow Book Club Kits with 10 copies of the selected book and even sample discussion questions, it makes the meetings and the club successful. I’m also volunteering in the local elementary school and I always take a great picture book from the Library to share with the class. I enjoy bringing my 3 grandchildren to the Library. My oldest granddaughter is 9 and she knows how to use the library search computer to request her favourite graphic novels. There are also great books on display in the picture book section for my youngest granddaughter and they all enjoy the display cases and puzzles and colouring pages. Thank you for all that you do to make the Library a welcoming place in our community!
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  Pleasurable experience

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  I have strong memories of the Ottawa Library Bookmobile coming to our neighborhood on Anna Avenue in the Vets area near Westgate. It would park near W.E. Gowling School. I loved to go there and take out books to read. I have always had a strong desire to read and this bookmobile always had a great selection for young readers. The staff was always so helpful.

  I still have a library card today that I frequently use. I read about 200 books yearly.

  Going to the library has always been such a pleasurable experience for me. I am now 77... Continue reading

  I have strong memories of the Ottawa Library Bookmobile coming to our neighborhood on Anna Avenue in the Vets area near Westgate. It would park near W.E. Gowling School. I loved to go there and take out books to read. I have always had a strong desire to read and this bookmobile always had a great selection for young readers. The staff was always so helpful.

  I still have a library card today that I frequently use. I read about 200 books yearly.

  Going to the library has always been such a pleasurable experience for me. I am now 77 years old.
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  Special

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  Hello your library has been a huge staple in peaple lives. Some peaple do not have computers .and I have to mention your staff your resources have been amazing help for me .we never take the time to say thankyou for making a huge difference in my life!!big this library every leaves I would be lost and very disappointed. i often go there to buy books and videos too. its really a special place for peaple to read and have there photo copys and the help is a accurate the staff puts there heart into helping you achieve your goals.... Continue reading

  Hello your library has been a huge staple in peaple lives. Some peaple do not have computers .and I have to mention your staff your resources have been amazing help for me .we never take the time to say thankyou for making a huge difference in my life!!big this library every leaves I would be lost and very disappointed. i often go there to buy books and videos too. its really a special place for peaple to read and have there photo copys and the help is a accurate the staff puts there heart into helping you achieve your goals. thankyou .hopefully we can come up with wonderful ideas to keep the library here. Library's are historic we are losing alot of history. and our young children or future children need to know. thats what makes the library special for everyone!!
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  Earliest memories

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  My mother was a librarian - in public libraries and later with the Ottawa Carleton School Board. Some of my earliest memories are of libraries, and books. I have always been a regular library user - mostly to borrow (and recommend) books, but also to attend events. One of my volunteer commitments is to help newcomers to Ottawa find a welcoming place in the city. I have told many people about the library's services - including the availability of computers, and books in their mother tongue. I treasure the OPL - can't think of a better way to spend my... Continue reading

  My mother was a librarian - in public libraries and later with the Ottawa Carleton School Board. Some of my earliest memories are of libraries, and books. I have always been a regular library user - mostly to borrow (and recommend) books, but also to attend events. One of my volunteer commitments is to help newcomers to Ottawa find a welcoming place in the city. I have told many people about the library's services - including the availability of computers, and books in their mother tongue. I treasure the OPL - can't think of a better way to spend my tax dollars! I look forward to seeing the new national Archives, and Main Library building!
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  More educational DVDs!

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  For many years, my husband and I have been great fans of the library’s Great Courses series, especially the lectures on history. After retirement, these courses provided us with a great learning opportunity. But very sadly, in recent years, the library no longer purchases Great Courses’ DVDs on history. Rather, there seem to be a growing number of entertainment DVDs purchased by the library with no educational value! This is a very unfortunate policy change and a shift in library’s focus. Thank you for seeking feedback.

  For many years, my husband and I have been great fans of the library’s Great Courses series, especially the lectures on history. After retirement, these courses provided us with a great learning opportunity. But very sadly, in recent years, the library no longer purchases Great Courses’ DVDs on history. Rather, there seem to be a growing number of entertainment DVDs purchased by the library with no educational value! This is a very unfortunate policy change and a shift in library’s focus. Thank you for seeking feedback.
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  Emerald Library - The best friend a person can have is a book

  by resplendentverdant, about 2 years ago

  Hello, I have been living in the beautiful city of Ottawa for less than a year. About 45 days after I arrived in Ottawa, I visited a library called Emerald. I really liked it. Since I am not yet fluent in English, I am studying the language. In the end, the best friend a person can have is a book.

  Hello, I have been living in the beautiful city of Ottawa for less than a year. About 45 days after I arrived in Ottawa, I visited a library called Emerald. I really liked it. Since I am not yet fluent in English, I am studying the language. In the end, the best friend a person can have is a book.