Kingston Frontenac Public Library Invites the Community to Get "Loud for Libraries" This October

Kingston Frontenac Public Library (KFPL) is celebrating Canadian Library Month this October, joining libraries across the country in recognizing the essential role libraries play in the lives of Canadians. In Ontario, the celebration includes two dedicated weeks: First Nation Public Library Week, taking place the first week of October, and Ontario Public Library Week, running October 18–24.

This year's theme, Loud for Libraries / Haut et fort pour les bibliothèques, invites people to consider what they're willing to do for libraries in their own communities, whether that means championing them, showing up to events, borrowing materials or speaking up on their behalf. The theme challenges long-standing perceptions of libraries as quiet, passive spaces, reinforcing that libraries are vibrant hubs for dialogue, creativity, and civic participation. Ontario Public Library Week falls just days ahead of the Ontario Municipal Elections on October 26, giving KFPL and libraries across the province a timely opportunity to highlight the value of public library service as communities elect new local representatives.

"Public libraries provide access to information, connection, and opportunity. As we head into municipal elections this October, I encourage everyone to think about what the library means to them, and to speak up for it. We are a publicly funded institution, sustained by the community we serve, and we are stronger when that community is loud about why libraries matter,” said Laura Carter, CEO, Kingston Frontenac Public Library.

Get Loud for Libraries at Your Local Branch Throughout October, library branches will host in-branch activations inviting patrons to share their favourite books. Celebrate what libraries mean to you, one book at a time, and add your voice to the "Loud for Libraries" conversation.

Get Loud for Libraries at Your Local Voting Booth Libraries are non-partisan, but they are not passive. This October, look for reliable voting information and plan to vote! Municipal Councils are responsible for appointing public library boards and provide most of the funding for libraries (through municipal tax dollars). Get Loud for Libraries by Borrowing New Things Introducing Yoto Players to the library’s collection! A screen-free audio device designed especially for children, the Yoto Player allows kids to explore stories, music, and educational content without needing a tablet or phone, fostering a love of listening and independent play. Available starting Oct. 18.

Get Loud for Libraries by Attending a Program October highlights include: • Build Your Own Beat, Saturday, October 3, 2:00-4:00 p.m., Central Branch. Ages 14–24. A beginnerfriendly music production workshop hosted in partnership with Queen's University's Jam for Justice. • Wellness Wednesdays, Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m.-12 p.m., Isabel Turner Branch. For older adults. A morning of chatting and connection over games, crafts, and activities with breakfast snacks provided by Lionhearts. • Fire Hall Storytime, Friday, October 9 (Station #8, Glenburnie Fire Hall) and Saturday, October 10 (Station #9, Hwy 38, Elginburg), 10:30-11:00 a.m. For families. A special Fire Prevention Week Storytime with local firefighters, fire safety tips, and an up-close look at fire trucks and equipment. • Foraging for Local Wild Food, Saturday, October 24, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., Isabel Turner Branch. Teens and adults. Participants will learn to identify herbs, greens, fruits, seeds, nuts, and roots, followed by a hands-on outdoor exploration of forageable plants around the branch.