GVPL Program Guide | Spring 2017

March through May 2017

Library programs for kids, teens and adults

Kids Baby Time For babies 0-15 months and their caregiver. Learn songs, rhymes and fingerplays to use with your baby every day. Drop-in.

March 1-May 19 Mondays, 10:30-11:00 am (no program April 17) Central Branch Oak Bay Branch Tuesdays, 10:30-11:00 am Juan de Fuca Branch Wednesdays, 11:00-11:30 am Goudy Branch Wednesdays, 11:30 am-12:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch Thursdays, 11:30 am-12:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch Fridays, 10:30-11:00 am (no program April 14) Esquimalt Branch Fridays, 11:30 am-12:00 pm (no program April 14) Bruce Hutchison Branch Tuesdays, April 4-May 9, 1:30-2:00 pm Central Branch

Community Connections For Parents Island Health Dietitian Join us after select Baby Times to learn about nutrition for your baby. Drop-in.

March 2, 12:00-12:30 pm Saanich Centennial Branch March 29, 11:30 am-12:00 pm Goudy Branch April 3, 11:00-11:30 am Central Branch April 7, 12:00-12:30 pm Bruce Hutchison Branch April 11, 11:00-11:30 am Juan de Fuca Branch April 12, 12:00-12:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

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Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

Island Health Nurse Join us after Baby Time to learn about baby care and other child development topics. Drop-in.

March 8, 11:30 am-12:00 pm Goudy Branch March 21, April 25, May 16, 11:00-11:30 am Juan de Fuca Branch March 27, April 24, May 15, 11:00-11:30 am Central Branch March 30, April 27, May 18, 12:00-12:30 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

Family Storytime For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Fun-filled stories, songs, rhymes and puppets. Drop-in.

March 1-May 20 Mondays, 10:30-11:00 am (no program April 17) Nellie McClung Branch Langford Heritage Branch Tuesdays, 10:30-11:00 am Oak Bay Branch Saanich Centennial Branch Wednesdays, 10:30-11:00 am Central Saanich Branch Esquimalt Branch Thursdays, 10:30-11:00 am Bruce Hutchison Branch Juan de Fuca Branch Fridays, 10:30-11:00 am (no program April 14) Central Branch Juan de Fuca Branch Oak Bay Branch Saturdays, 11:00-11:30 am Saanich Centennial Branch

Toddler Time For toddlers 16-35 months and caregiver. Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes and puppets, chosen with care for your terrific toddlers. Drop-in.

Thursdays, March 2-May 18, 10:30-11:00 am Central Branch

Sensory Storytime: Pete the Cat For ages 3-5; maximum of 2 children per accompanying adult.

Discover sensory-rich stories, movement and songs. This fun program is appropriate for preschoolers with autism or sensory processing issues

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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or preschoolers who thrive on routine. Parent and caregiver participation is required. Registered.

March 6, 10:30-11:15 am Juan de Fuca Branch

Story Club For ages 6-9. Join Story Club and engage with other kids over books, games and crafts. In this series, kids will listen to stories, share their thoughts and experiences, and enjoy group activities. Snacks included.

Registered.

Mondays, March 6, April 3, May 1, 3:30-4:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch Thursdays, March 16, April 20, May 18, 3:30-4:30 pm Langford Heritage Branch Thursdays, March 30, April 27, 3:30-4:30 pm Central Branch

English Language Learner Storytime For young children and accompanying adult. Fun-filled stories, songs, rhymes and puppets for young English language learners and their families. Drop-in.

March 7 and April 8, 10:30-11:00 am Nellie McClung Branch

Giggles & Wiggles For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Little listeners with extra energy will enjoy action-filled stories, songs and rhymes followed by free play and stations. Drop-in.

10:30-11:00 am Thursdays, March 16, April 20, May 18 Nellie McClung Branch Wednesdays, March 29, April 26 Juan de Fuca Branch

Coding With Scratch For ages 7-9. Join kids’ coding enthusiast ValÊrie Losier to learn the basics of programming with Scratch, a programming language designed for children. Participants will use their imaginations to build a simple animated game or video. Registered.

March 20, 10:00 am-1:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

Felted Friends For ages 6-12. Create a fluffy stuffie out of felt in this fuzzy workshop with artist Annie Nazarian.

March 20, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

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Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

Fractured Fairytales For ages 6-9. Once upon a time, the fairytales and folktales you know and love took an unexpected twist. Who will live happily ever after?

Come to the library and find out! You’ll make a craft to take home, too. Registered.

March 21, 10:30-11:30 am Goudy Branch April 24, 3:30-4:30 pm Oak Bay Branch April 27, 3:30-4:30 pm Esquimalt Branch

Lego at the Library For ages 7-10. Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego.

Registered.

March 21, 10:30-11:30 am Esquimalt Branch

Story Buddies Young children are paired with volunteer tweens to write and illustrate an original storybook. Together, Little Buddies and Big Buddies will use their imaginations and produce a keepsake that will become part of their life’s story.

Little Buddies

For ages 4-6. Registered.

March 22, 2:30-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

March 27, 2:30-3:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

March 30, 11:00 am-12:00 pm Esquimalt Branch

Tween Volunteers

For ages 10-12. We provide Big Buddy training and, upon completion, a certificate for volunteering. First-time volunteers, please complete the Tween Volunteer Referral Form, available at gvpl.ca/tweenvolunteers. Registered.

March 22, 2:00-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

March 27, 2:00-3:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

March 30, 10:30 am-12:00 pm Esquimalt Branch

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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Wrigglers at Work For ages 6-9. Join the Compost Education Centre for hands-on activities with wiggling, wriggling worms, and learn the dos and don’ts of composting with the help of our squirmy friends. Registered.

March 22, 2:00-3:00 pm Central Branch March 29, 2:00-3:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Mad Science Show: Fire and Ice Show For ages 5-12. Mad scientists will dazzle you with awe-inspiring experiments. Watch them conjure a misty dry ice storm and levitate giant beach balls. Participants can volunteer to taste a special burp potion. Registered.

March 23, 2:00-3:00 pm Esquimalt Branch

Little Lego at the Library For ages 4-6; parents and caregivers are encouraged to attend.

Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego. Registered.

March 24, 1:30-2:30 pm Bruce Hutchison Branch

Mad Science: Spy Academy Workshop For ages 5-12. Step aside 007, the Mad Science Spy Academy is in session.

From preparing edible messages to crafting cryptic codes, learn the skills of spies in this hands-on journey into the world of espionage. Registered.

March 24, 2:00-3:00 pm Oak Bay Branch

Mandarin Seeds: Here Comes Spring!

For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy a fun and interactive storytime in Mandarin and make a craft. Registered.

March 25, 10:30-11:15 am Nellie McClung Branch

Anne Glover’s Amazing String Stories For ages 5-12. You’ve never heard – or seen – a story told like this.

Award-winning performer Anne Glover tours the world telling stories brought to life with pieces of string she manipulates into a cast of characters. A turtle, a bird, a rocket, a dinosaur – shoelaces have never looked so good. Registered.

March 28, 2:00-3:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch March 29, 2:00-3:00 pm Central Branch

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Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

March 30, 2:00-3:00 pm Bruce Hutchison Branch

May the Force Be With You For ages 8-12. Join us in a galaxy not so far away for Star Wars-inspired stories, activities and crafts. Registered.

March 28, 2:30-3:30 pm Langford Heritage Branch May 4, 3:30-4:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs For ages 5-8; parents and caregivers are encouraged to attend.

Enjoy stories, decorate a recipe book and snack on fruits and veggies.

An Island Health nutritionist will provide food tips for your family.

Registered.

March 29, 2:30-4:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

Family Song Circle For children and their families. Try your voice at familiar and new songs, and learn rounds, call and response songs and simple harmonies. Singing led by Nancy Dobbs. Registered.

April 1 and May 6, 10:30-11:15 am Nellie McClung Branch April 8 and May 13, 10:30-11:15 am Oak Bay Branch

Baby Sign Language For parents, educators and children aged 0-24 months. Learn the basics of the Baby SignsÂŽ Program. The benefits of signing with young children include improved communication, fewer tantrums and increased cognitive and language development. Registered.

April 5, 10:30-11:30 am Central Branch

Sensory Storytime: Deep Blue Sea For ages 3-5; maximum of 2 children per accompanying adult.

This program features sensory-rich stories, movement and songs appropriate for preschoolers with autism or sensory processing issues and preschoolers who thrive on routine. Parent and caregiver participation is required. Registered.

April 7, 10:30-11:15 am Nellie McClung Branch

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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Stuffed Animal Storytime For ages 4-6. Bring your favourite stuffed animal for a pyjama storytime, then leave the stuffie at the library for a sleepover. We’ll have cameras set up to record any monkey business. Return the following day to pick up your furry friend and see the pictures. Registered.

April 7, 6:30-7:00 pm Esquimalt Branch

This Little Piggie For ages 3-5. If you’re a fan of Olivia, Peppa and other literary pigs, join us for this entertaining piggie storytime and craft. Registered.

April 8, 10:30-11:30 am Bruce Hutchison Branch April 12, 10:30-11:30 am Saanich Centennial Branch

Paws 4 Tales For grades 2-4. Read aloud to a friendly dog and enjoy games and activities to boost reading skills. Volunteers from St John’s Ambulance will be on hand to help. Registered.

April 11, 18 and 25, 3:30-4:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Calling all Cottontails For ages 3-5. Hop, hop, hop on over to the library for stories and songs about bunnies, chicks and everything that makes spring so egg-citing. Make a craft to take home, too. Registered.

April 12, 10:30-11:30 am Goudy Branch

Happy Egg Day For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Cheep, cheep, cheep. Come to the library for egg-cellent stories about springtime and hatching. Make a craft to take home, too. Registered.

April 12, 10:30-11:30 am Central Branch

Symphony Storytime For ages 3-5. Listen to stories told through music with two Victoria Symphony musicians and their puppet friend, Kathy Cadence.

Sing along and try some child-sized instruments. Registered.

April 19, 10:30-11:30 am Oak Bay Branch May 3, 10:30-11:30 am Juan de Fuca Branch

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Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

Ready, Set, Grow For ages 5-12. Celebrate Earth Day with stories about peace, nature and our beautiful planet Earth. Sow a plant pet, take it home and watch its green hair grow. Registered.

April 22, 10:30-11:30 am Nellie McClung Branch

Spanish Storytime For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy a fun and interactive storytime in Spanish and make a craft. Registered.

April 24, 10:30-11:15 am Juan de Fuca Branch

Brown Bear, Brown Bear Everywhere For ages 3-5. Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See? with an interactive storytime and craft in honour of this iconic picture book and other works by author Eric Carle. Registered.

April 28, 10:30-11:30 am Nellie McClung Branch May 3, 10:30-11:30 am Central Branch

Mandarin Seeds: Farm Animals For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Enjoy a fun and interactive storytime in Mandarin and make a craft. Registered.

April 29, 10:30-11:15 am Nellie McClung Branch

Free Comic Book Day Everyone welcome. Get a free comic book – or two if you dress up like your favourite character – and enter to win awesome stuff.

Check out the library’s selection of comics, manga and graphic novels.

Free comics while supplies last. Drop-in.

May 6, 9:00 am-12:00 pm Central Branch

Fancy Nancy Spring Party For ages 3-6. Ooh-la-la! Celebrate spring in style with stupendous stories and awe-inspiring activities. Dress up in your fancy best – the more bows the better. Registered.

May 6, 11:00 am-12:00 pm Langford Heritage Branch

M is for Mandala For ages 6-9. Team up to create a mammoth mandala, a geometric pattern representing the universe, using objects found in nature – sand,

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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pebbles, sticks and sea glass. Then, make a mandala paper design to take home. Registered.

May 12, 2:30-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Asian Heritage Month: Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan For ages 6 and up; parents and caregivers are encouraged to attend.

Listen to a traditional Chinese story told by local storyteller Su Ma, then practice Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan, a series of Tai Chi movements and special techniques using a large fan. If you have a favourite fan, please bring it. No experience necessary. Registered.

May 6, 10:30-11:30 am Oak Bay Branch May 13, 10:30-11:30 am Nellie McClung Branch

Asian Heritage Month: Origami and the Art of Paper Folding For ages 8-12. Discover the joy of origami. Join local origami enthusiast Stephen Tran for lessons in the magical art of folding paper into miniature 3D models. Registered.

May 13, 2:30-3:30 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

Jan Thomas’ Silly Stories For ages 3-5. If your little one loves giggling along to silly stories, join us for a Jan Thomas storytime and craft with a spotlight on the beloved rhyming dust bunnies. Registered.

May 16, 10:30-11:30 am Esquimalt Branch

High Tech Treasure Hunt For ages 7-12; accompanying adult required. Celebrate Science Odyssey Week with a program on how scientists use GPS technology. Then, head outdoors (rain or shine) for a treasure hunt using GPS receivers (provided) or your smart phone (download the basic GPS app with the “UTM” location coordinates). Registered.

May 19, 12:30-2:00 pm Bruce Hutchison Branch

Summer Reading Club Kickoff: Leif David Magician Leif David helps us kick off SRC with two magic shows. His award-winning act showcases his specialty in close-up and stage magic.

June 2, 10:15-11:00 am Nellie McClung Branch June 2, 1:15-2:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

10 Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

Teens DigiLab for ages 13-18

DigiLab Training Session

Learn to lead a DigiLab program. Earn volunteer hours and use your creativity and tech skills to inspire your peers. To lead a DigiLab program, you must attend a training session and complete the Teen Volunteer Referral Form. Registered.

March 3, 7:00-8:00 pm Esquimalt Branch

Tech Night Create and innovate with DigiLab’s tech toolkit, including Alienware laptops and Spheros. Registered.

March 10, 6:30-8:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

Still Life with Books

Bring your camera, smartphone or tablet, and explore still life photography, the art of photographing every day, inanimate objects.

Use our selection of books and props or bring your own to curate.

Registered.

March 23, 3:00-5:00 pm Central Branch

Digital Art

Bring your tablet or iPad and explore free art creation apps.

Participants can also make virtual art with DigiLab’s Tilt Brush, which lets you paint a 3D space using virtual reality. Don’t have a tablet?

GVPL has Nexus 7s for loan. Registered.

March 30, 6:30-8:30 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

Maker Night Create, build and fabricate with DigiLab’s maker tools and supplies, including Perler beads, a button maker and a 3D printer. Registered.

April 7, 6:30-8:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Green Screen

Calling all future film producers, serious actors and stand-up comedians: the DigiLab green screen is ready for your close-up. Plan and produce your own green screen video and choose almost any setting as your backdrop with the click of a few buttons. Registered.

April 13, 4:00-7:00 pm Oak Bay Branch

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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Spheros

Learn to code with DigiLab’s Sphero SPRKs, robotic spheres you can program with an app to roll, spin, flip and change colours.

These rolling robots teach the principles of robotics and coding through play. Registered.

April 27, 4:00-6:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Game Night Gather ‘round an old-fashioned board game, or play computer games among friends. Registered.

May 5, 6:30-8:30 pm Esquimalt Branch

DigiLab Drop-in Explore your artistic side with crafting supplies, and try out cool new tech like filmmaking equipment and Makey Makey kits. Drop-in.

May 10, 3:30-5:30 pm Langford Heritage Branch

Explore VR Climb a peak in Utah or attend a lantern festival by moonlight. Do all this and more with Google Cardboard’s do-it-yourself virtual reality headset and a smartphone. Registered.

May 18, 6:30-8:30 pm Central Branch

Toastmasters Youth Leadership Series For ages 10-18. Improve your leadership and communication skills through practical experience and public speaking exercises in this series led by a Distinguished Toastmaster and other community speakers. Registered.

Saturdays, April 15-June 3, 2:30-4:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Teen Writers’ Reception Everyone welcome. Join us for an evening of original creative writing by local teens. Winners of the Teen Writing Contest will read aloud from their short stories and poems and receive their prizes, and contest participants will be celebrated as new writers. Registered.

May 4, 7:00-8:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Sketch Night with NAZO For ages 13-18. Learn to sketch graffiti-style with acclaimed local artist Nate “NAZO” Davis. You’ll get tips on creating lettering, patterns and decorative elements to make your ideas pop off the page. Registered.

May 5, 7:00-8:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

12 Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

Adults Canadian Council of the Blind: Get Together With Technology This program helps those who are visually impaired learn to use lowvision and blindness-related technology and online sites like Facebook and Twitter. First Wednesday of the month. Drop-in.

Wednesdays, March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, 1:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

1-on-1: Getting Started With Computers & E-Readers Sign up for a 30-minute session and get help with computer basics, setting up an email account, using the Internet and exploring GVPL's digital collections. Weekly sessions are offered at most of our branches; dates and times vary. We also offer sessions in Mandarin at Central Branch. Check the program calendar at gvpl.ca.

Queer Abilities Drop-In A group for anyone in the LGBTQ2+ community living with a disability.

Presented by AIDS Vancouver Island. Drop-in.

March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, 5:00-6:30 pm Central Branch, second floor meeting room

Victoria Chess Club at the Library Enjoy competitive games of chess with players from the Victoria Chess Club every Wednesday. Drop in.

Wednesdays, 6:00-8:45 pm Central Branch, first floor

Victoria Writers’ Society Meeting Join the Victoria Writers’ Society for their monthly meetings on the first Wednesday of each month. Drop-in.

Wednesdays, March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, 7:00-8:45 pm Central Branch

Deans’ Lecture Series Research shapes the way we live and think. Meet distinguished members of the faculties of the University of Victoria and learn about their research interests. Check the calendar at gvpl.ca for lecture topics. To register, call UVic’s Continuing Studies Department at 250-472-4747.

Fridays, March 3, April 7, April 21, 12:30-1:45 pm Central Branch

Retail Action Network Drop by the Retail Action Network table and meet with this non-profit group interested in providing information to retail, food service and

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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hospitality workers of any age about their rights and responsibilities in the workplace. Drop-in.

March 4, 10:00 am-1:00 pm Central Branch

Author Reading: Susan Juby Join local author Susan Juby, winner of the 2016 Leacock Medal for Humour, as she reads from her latest book, Republic of Dirt: Return to Woefield. Registered.

March 4, 11:00 am-12:00 pm Central Branch

Computer Basics 2 Building on the skills you learned in Computer Basics 1, you will learn how to create, manipulate and store information. Prerequisite: Computer Basics 1. Registered.

March 6, 10:30 am-12:00 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

Indigenous Stories Book Club Join Dr. Carmen Rodriguez de France, assistant professor of Indigenous Education at the University of Victoria, for a book club focused on the works of Canadian Indigenous peoples. Explore their history, culture and ways of being, as expressed through their writings. Registered.

March 6, March 20, April 3, 2:00-3:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Scrabble at the Library How do you spell fun? S-C-R-A-B-B-L-E! Enjoy three competitive games of Scrabble with players from the Victoria Scrabble Club every Tuesday evening. Drop-in.

Tuesdays, 5:45-8:45 pm Central Branch, second floor meeting room

WordsThaw Prize Gala Celebrate and listen to the shortlisted authors of the The Malahat Review’s first annual WordsThaw Prize for Victoria writers. Winners for poetry and micro-text, chosen by poet Janet Rogers, will be announced. Everyone welcome. Drop-in.

March 8, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

IdeaFest: Cleaning and Monitoring the Earth As part of UVic’s IdeaFest, Dr. Rodney Herring discusses nanotechnology – the study and application of extremely small things. This lecture will describe the global impacts of nanotechnology, as well as three new imaging methods being developed at UVic to monitor Earth’s atmosphere, ocean and landmass. Drop-in.

14 Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

March 9, 12:00-1:30 pm Central Branch

Intro to Advance Care Planning with Island Health Join volunteers from Island Health to learn how to make an Advance Care Plan, a document that will give you a say in your health care even if you are unable to speak for yourself. Registered.

March 9, 6:30-7:30 pm Central Branch

Master Gardeners at GVPL Questions about plants or pests? Save them up and drop by the rotunda of the Central Branch to speak with Master Gardeners from the Victoria Master Gardener Association. Kindly bring your specimens in a sealed bag. Drop-in.

March 11, 25, April 8, 22, May 27, 10:00 am-1:00 pm Central Branch

Gardening and Arthritis Learn strategies to help you stay active in the garden and reduce pain from arthritis. Adapt your gardening environment, use appropriate tools and aids, protect your joints and understand your limits.

Presented by the Arthritis Society. Registered.

March 11, 10:30 am-12:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

Internet Basics 1 Learn the basics of searching the Internet. Suggested prerequisite: Computer Basics 1 & 2 or equivalent training or experience. Registered.

March 15, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch April 4, 10:30 am-12:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Secrets of 3D Matting Your grandmother’s locket, a seashell from the Carribean, a priceless baseball card. Learn proper archival methods for attaching 3D items to frame matting to display your precious objects in a shadow box. Bring your artefacts and a frame for sizing, and create beautiful matted artwork. Matting up to 11” x 14” supplied. Registered.

March 16, 7:00-8:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

Internet Basics 2 Building on the skills you learned in Internet Basics 1, you will learn tips and tricks for effective searching, and explore using browsers, search engines and directories in more depth. Suggested prerequisite: Internet

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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Basics 1 or equivalent training or experience. Registered.

March 22, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch May 11, 10:30 am-12:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Monday Book Club at the Central Branch Join us for a monthly discussion on titles chosen from different genres and available in multiple formats: ebook, e-audiobook, books on CD and print. Read or listen to a pre-selected book, discuss it at the monthly meeting and hear about other titles. Registered.

March 27, April 24, May 29, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

Westshore Writers’ Group Writers of all levels and genres are welcome to meet and discuss the craft of writing. Drop-in.

Wednesdays, March 29, April 26, May 31, 7:00-8:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Walking 738 Kilometers Across Southwest France The Grande Randonnée 65 is a long-distance trail that follows an ancient pilgrimage route for 738 kilometers across southwest France.

Join retired GVPL librarian Colleen Stewart for an armchair trip along one of the major feeder routes to the Camino de Santiago. Registered.

March 29, 7:00-8:00 pm Central Branch

Saanich Writers’ Circle Writers of all levels and genres are welcome to meet and discuss the craft of writing. Drop-in.

March 30, April 27, May 25, 2:00-3:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

South Island Gender Variant Drop-In A drop-in group for trans, gender queer, two-spirit and gender variant individuals. A safe place to come together, share, create and support each other. Presented by AIDS Vancouver Island. Drop-in.

Thursdays, March 30, April 27, May 25, June 29, 6:00-7:30 pm Central Branch, group study/meeting room in far corner of library

Watercolour on Masa Paper: Birds Join professional wildlife artist Richard Wong for a workshop on painting birds, one of our most colourful creatures. Bring your own print-out, or work from a class design. No experience necessary. Registered.

March 31, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

16 Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

May 5, 2:00-3:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

RentSmart Course with Ready to Rent BC In this six-week course, you’ll learn the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords, get tips on landing the right apartment, find out how to budget and more. Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a RentSmart certificate, which is recognized by many housing providers and landlords. To register, call Ready to Rent BC at 250-388-7171.

Check gvpl.ca for upcoming dates

Five Must-Haves for a Retirement that Rocks A fulfilling, meaningful life after work is created from more than money alone. Join life and career transition specialist Anna Harvey as she discusses five must-haves for inspired retirement living. Registered.

April 6, 7:00-8:00 pm Oak Bay Branch

Death and Dying: Talking About It Won’t Kill You In a gentle, supportive environment, we’ll talk about the taboo topic of death and dying. Led by Dying with Dignity Canada facilitators Ellen Agger and Oona Iverson, discussion will include assisted dying, patients’ rights and advance care planning. Registered.

April 6, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

Discovery Coffee Sensory Workshop Join coffee education specialist Brittany Davies and a team from Discovery Coffee for an experiential workshop about our favourite pick-me-up. Learn about the history and processes of coffee production, get hands-on with several types of coffee, and finally, attend to your taste buds with a few taste tests. Registered.

April 7, 2:00-4:00 pm Oak Bay Branch

Poetry Month: Get Poemed!

Have you ever been Poemed? Be among the pleasantly surprised and entertained when poet Wendy Morton delivers her trademark “Random Acts of Poetry.” Tell her a story, and she’ll quickly turn it into a personalized gift of verse. Everyone welcome. Drop-in.

April 8, 11:00 am-1:00 pm Bruce Hutchison Branch April 8, 2:00-4:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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Poetry Month: Book Spine Poetry Celebrate Poetry Month by making book spine poetry. Vertically stack books, arranging the titles on their spines to create a poem. City of Victoria Poet Laureate Yvonne Blomer will be on hand to provide inspiration. Everyone welcome. Bet you can’t make just one! Drop-in.

April 8, 11:00 am-1:00 pm Central Branch

Web Resources for Investing Stocks, mutual funds, account rates and more. We will explore popular Canadian financial websites to help you make better decisions around investing. Registered.

April 12, 2:00-3:30 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Repair Café Have an alarm clock that won’t buzz or a wheel that won’t spin?

Don’t toss it! Bring it to the Repair Café where you can get help fixing household items. Drop-in.

April 15, 9:30 am-12:30 pm Central Branch

Author Alan MacLeod: Remembered in Bronze and Stone Author Alan MacLeod shares images and stories of his cross-country journey to document over 130 bronze and stone sculptures memorializing fallen Canadian soldiers of the First World War. Registered.

April 15, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

Cybersecurity 101 Cybersecurity 101 will reveal the risks that come with online activities, how to reduce those risks and what you can do to protect yourself from online threats. Prerequisite: Computer Basics 1. Registered.

April 19, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

Human Population & the Future of the Planet Join writer, photographer and former environmental scientist Dr. Hans Tammemagi to learn about the impacts our growing population has on resources, the environment, quality of life and international tensions. He will share his predictions for the future of the planet. Registered.

April 19, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch April 20, 2:00-3:30 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

18 Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

Simple Changes to Improve Your Parenting Join registered clinical counsellor Sherry Scheideman to learn ways to improve your relationship with your child so you can manage challenging behaviour and build trust.

April 20, 7:00-8:30 pm Oak Bay Branch

Introduction to Twitter Join us for a demonstration of this popular social networking service.

Registered.

April 21, 10:00-11:30 am Central Branch

Literary Walking Tour of Downtown Victoria Walk in the footsteps of local writers and the places they set their works. Novelist Katrin Horowitz leads this literary walking tour to places such as Fan Tan Alley, Shine CafÊ and Store Street, ending with a tour of Munro’s Books. Along the way, enjoy short readings from the works of local luminaries such as Emily Carr, Stan Evans and Wendy Morton. Meet in the Central Branch courtyard. Registered.

April 22, 10:00 am-12:00 pm Central Branch

Efficient Irrigation Introductory Workshops A properly installed and maintained irrigation system will conserve water. Are you considering the purchase of an irrigation system or already own a system needing upgrading? Join the CRD for this introductory workshop for residential homeowners. Irrigation experts will explain system components and installation and provide maintenance tips. To register, call 250-474-9684.

All Efficient Irrigation Systems Workshop

April 22, 2:00-5:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Micro/Drip Efficient Irrigation Workshop

May 13, 2:00-5:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Author Terry Fallis: One Brother Shy Join us for a visit with award-winning Canadian author Terry Fallis as he reads from his new novel, One Brother Shy. Generously funded by Canada Council for the Arts and IslandLink Library Federation. Registered.

April 22, 2:00-3:00 pm Central Branch

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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We

our volunteers

We are grateful to every volunteer who supports the library. You are valued and appreciated!

Special thanks to the GVPL Board of Directors, Friends of the Library and our Visiting Library Service, teen and tween volunteers.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK, APRIL 23 TO 29, 2017

Belfry Booksmack Get Booksmacked! Come out for an evening of great book, music, audiobook and film recommendations. GVPL staff members and special guest Yvonne Blomer, the City of Victoria's Poet Laureate, will speed review as many titles as they can throughout the evening. Bring your library card to sign out material on the spot. Drop-in.

April 24, 7:30-9:00 pm Belfry Theatre, 1291 Gladstone Ave

Westshore Writers’ Group Writers of all levels and genres are welcome to meet and discuss the craft of writing. Drop-in.

Wednesdays, March 30, April 26, May 25, 7:00-8:30 pm Juan de Fuca Branch

Micro Lending in Victoria Starting a new business or returning to school? Micro lending could help ease the financial burden. The Victoria Community Micro Lending Society will provide information on applying for small business and training micro loans. You’ll also learn how you could become a small loans lender. Registered.

April 27, 7:00-8:30 pm Saanich Centennial Branch

Living on a Fixed Retirement Income Learn how to manage your finances when living on a fixed retirement income. Catherine Ching of the Credit Counselling Society leads this interactive workshop on ways to decrease your expenses and increase your income. Registered.

April 28, 2:00-3:00 pm Central Branch

Money Basics for Newcomers This practical and interactive workshop will introduce newcomers to Canada to banks, credit unions and credit. Learn how to protect yourself from scams and fraud and how to safely send money abroad. Presented by Catherine Ching of the Credit Counselling Society. Registered.

April 29, 10:30 am-12:00 pm Central Branch

20 Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

Asian Heritage Month The Kimono & Japanese Culture

From golden cranes embroidered on red satin to pink cherry blossoms emblazoned on silk crepe, the kimono doubles as a traditional Japanese garment and a piece of art. Join Hitomi Harama, kimono and Japanese culture specialist, for a talk on the history of the kimono and the traditional Japanese way of life. Registered.

May 5, 2:00-3:00 pm Central Branch

Japanese Tea Ceremony

The Japanese tea ceremony, called chado or the Way of Tea, is one of Japan’s time-honoured traditional arts. Experience the ceremonial preparation and presentation of tea, influenced by Zen Buddhism and encompassing the principles of harmony, respect, purity and tranquility. Presented by the Victorian Urasenke Nagomi Tea Circle.

Drop-in.

Note: Attendance is limited to 30 participants. Due to the sacred nature of this ceremony, we will not be able to admit late arrivals.

May 6, 11:00 am-12:00 pm Central Branch

Origami and the Art of Paper Folding

Discover the zen of origami. Join local origami enthusiast Stephen Tran for lessons in the mindful art of folding paper into miniature 3D models. Registered.

May 13, 10:30-11:30 am Bruce Hutchison Branch

Mehndi Demonstration

Join local mehndi artist Poonam Ablak for a discussion and demonstration of mehndi, the ceremonial application of semi-permanent, reddish-brown paste in intricate designs and patterns on the hands and feet. Developed in India, mehndi is an ancient, decorative art, traditionally applied as part of Hindu wedding customs. Registered.

May 20, 10:30 am-12:00 pm Nellie McClung Branch

Ask Dr. Google Join clinical nurse educator Lindsay Wheelock to learn how to improve your web literacy and evaluate the credibility of health information online. Registered.

May 3, 10:00-11:00 am Oak Bay Branch

Author Michael Dupuis: The 1917 Halifax Explosion Author and historian Michael Dupuis shares images and stories from his

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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new book on Canada’s greatest Maritime disaster, Bearing Witness: Journalists, Record Keepers and the 1917 Halifax Explosion. Registered.

May 3, 2:00-3:30 pm Oak Bay Branch May 9, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

Emerging Local Authors Collection Launch Join us for a special evening celebrating the launch of GVPL’s third annual Emerging Local Authors Collection, featuring writers and illustrators from Greater Victoria. Everyone welcome. Drop-in.

May 4, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch, courtyard

Author Patrick Taylor: Irish Country Doctor Series Join local author Patrick Taylor as he reads from the Irish Country Doctor novels and his latest book, An Irish Country Cookbook, featuring 150 Irish family recipes and ten short stories. Registered.

May 6, 1:00-3:00 pm Central Branch

Fanciful Felting Enjoy this fuzzy felting workshop with artist Annie Nazarian, and create a lucky charm, comfort toy or enchanted being out of simple felt and embroidery. Registered.

May 11, 2:00-3:30 pm Central Branch

Share Food, Talk Hunger Join us for a free meal and participate in a conversation about experiencing food insecurity. Learn about local food resources and get tips on how to eat healthy on a budget. Presented by LifeCycles Project Society and Victoria Cool Aid Society. Drop-in.

May 12, 1:00-3:00 pm Central Branch

Victoria Native Friendship Centre and GVPL present a four-part speaker series: Reconciliation: Opening the Door to Conversations

Our next community conversation will be: De-Constructing Colonization in Each of Our Lives with Louise Mandell, Q.C., LL.D. Thursday, May 11, 7:00-8:30 pm at the Central Branch Details at gvpl.ca/openingthedoor

22 Program registration is required unless noted as drop-in.

Bike to Work Week, May 29-June 4 Watch for GVPL’s Bikemobile at Bike to Work Week Celebration Stations around town. We'll also be offering a bike safety program and bike petting zoo in partnership with WeBike. For times and locations, please check gvpl.ca.

Victoria Seed Library Created by LifeCycles Project Society and GVPL, the Victoria Seed Library offers a way for hobby and beginner gardeners to share seeds and other gardening resources.

Seed Library Member Orientation Learn how to borrow seeds from the Victoria Seed Library and how to dry seeds for return at the end of the season. You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with other seed savers and share resources, tips and techniques for backyard growing. This orientation is required to participate in Seed Swaps. Registered.

March 11, April 22, May 27, 10:00-11:30 am Central Branch

Seed Swap Sign out the varieties that interest you, then return seeds from your healthiest or tastiest crops to share with others. Prerequisite: Seed Library Member Orientation. Drop-in.

March 9 and April 13, 5:30-8:30 pm Emily Carr Branch March 11, 25, April 8, 22, May 13, 27, 10:00 am-1:00 pm Central Branch

Growing a Backyard Seed Garden Get started or increase your efforts at backyard seed saving.

We’ll help you plan your vegetable garden with seed saving in mind and discuss how to successfully save quality seeds on a small scale. Registered.

March 14, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

Growing Native Plants from Seed

Growing native plants from seed can help enhance biodiversity and be a terrific source of food. Learn how to identify, collect and propagate native species from seed, and take some home.

Registered.

April 4, 7:00-8:30 pm Central Branch

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-4875.

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Branches and Hours Spring/Summer hours begin May 1. Goudy Branch remains open Sundays year round. Our virtual branch is always open: gvpl.ca.

Central Branch 735 Broughton St. Monday, Friday, Saturday................................................ 9:00 am-6:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday....................................... 9:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday (open through April 30)............................................ 1:00-5:00 pm

Bruce Hutchison Branch

4636 Elk Lake Dr., Saanich Commonwealth Place Monday, Friday, Saturday.............................................. 10:00 am-6:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday..................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday (open through April 30)............................................ 1:00-5:00 pm

Central Saanich Branch 1209 Clarke Rd., Brentwood Bay Monday, Tuesday, Thursday........................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Wednesday, Friday, Saturday......................................... 10:00 am-6:00 pm Sunday (open through April 30)............................................ 1:00-5:00 pm Emily Carr Branch 101-3521 Blanshard St. at Uptown

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday............. 10:00 am-6:00 pm Thursday....................................................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday (open through April 30)............................................ 1:00-5:00 pm

Esquimalt Branch 1231 Esquimalt Rd. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday........................ 10:00 am-6:00 pm Thursday, Friday............................................................ 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday (open through April 30)............................................ 1:00-5:00 pm Goudy Branch 119-755 Goldstream Ave. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday.......................... 9:30 am-5:30 pm Thursday, Friday.............................................................. 9:30 am-6:00 pm Sunday (year round)........................................................ 1:00 pm-5:00 pm Juan de Fuca Branch 1759 Island Hwy.

Monday, Friday, Saturday.............................................. 10:00 am-6:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday..................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday (open through April 30)............................................ 1:00-5:00 pm

Langford Heritage Branch 102-1314 Lakepoint Way

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday................. 10:00 am-6:00 pm Wednesday................................................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday (open through April 30)............................................ 1:00-5:00 pm

Nellie McClung Branch 3950 Cedar Hill Rd. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday........................ 10:00 am-6:00 pm Thursday, Friday............................................................

10:00 am-9:00 pm Our charitable number is 11894 6979 RR0001 Sunday (open through April 30)............................................

1:00-5:00 pm For more information call 250-940-4875 x 345 or email donate@gvpl.ca Greater Victoria Public Library Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday........................ 10:00 am-6:00 pm 735 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC V8W 3H2 Thursday, Friday............................................................

10:00 am-9:00 pm

Oak Bay Branch 1442 Monterey Ave. at Monterey Recreation Centre

Sunday (open through April 30)............................................ 1:00-5:00 pm

Saanich Centennial Branch 3110 Tillicum Rd. at Pearkes Arena Monday, Friday, Saturday.............................................. 10:00 am-6:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday..................................... 10:00 am-9:00 pm Sunday (open through April 30)............................................ 1:00-5:00 pm