October is a month dedicated to celebrating the spaces where stories come to life, where imagination soars, and where learning knows no bounds. That’s right—it’s Canadian Library Month, and here at Ottawa Public Library (OPL), we are opening the book on returning the page on our own special a celebration that everyone can enjoy. 

Ottawa Public Library's theme this year is: “Joy of Reading / Joie de lire.” 

Reading brings joy in countless ways, and the public library is where that joy comes to life for many of us. Each story you dive into is a new adventure, an eye-opening  fresh opportunity to dive into something wonderful. 

This October, the Library is going all out to celebrate that joy.  

One of the highlights of Library Month will be a hilarious event with witty comedian and actor Steve Patterson (in English) and a dreamy and delightful chance to attend an adult writing workshop with the award-winning author and illustrator of children’s books Marie-Louise Gay (in French). 

Book Bags and Golden Tickets!  

But wait—there’s more! Golden Tickets will be hidden throughout the month across our branches, just waiting to be discovered. Lucky finders can redeem these for a special Joy of Reading / Joie de lire book bag.  

Additionally, from now until the end of the month, anyone who signs up for a new library card will receive a stylish, eco-friendly Joy of Reading book bag! If a new library cardholder mentions you referred them, you both get a bag. It's OPL’s way of welcoming new readers and celebrating a growing community of book lovers. 

Your Library is not just a place to borrow books; it’s a vibrant hub that brings our community together, fosters connections, and ensures everyone has access to knowledge. At OPL, everyone is welcome. 

So, whether you’re a seasoned reader or just starting to explore the shelves, join us at OPL this Library Month. There’s joy in every book, and your library is here to help you discover it.  

Let’s make this Library Month the best one yet. Grab your library card, keep your eyes peeled for Golden Tickets, and  celebrate the endless Joy of Reading! 

Special thanks to the Friends of Ottawa Public Library for helping make all this possible—happy reading!