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Some in-branch programs require registration with your library card. Please log in with your library account or follow this link to apply for a card online. You can also apply for a card in person at any of our 33 locations.

  • Ready, Set, Kindergarten!

    Wednesdays, May 01, 2024 - May 22, 2024
    2:00pm
    45 minutes

    4 sessions remaining

    A school readiness program for children 3–4 years old, who will be entering kindergarten in September 2024, and their adult co-learner.

    Stories and child-centered learning stations with a focus on the foundational concepts of letter recognition, numeracy, colors, shapes, measurement, rhyming, and retelling.

  • May the 4th Be With You

    Saturday May 04, 2024 at 10:00am
    120 minutes

    May the 4th Be With You...

    As we inspire learning, spark curiosity and connect people in this fun, free morning of information and demonstrations showcasing robotics design innovation from our own community.

    Learn about advances in robotics, smart mobility, and other next-gen technology from researchers, industry specialists, and local students. Check out STEM resources offered at the Library, and see OPL’s very own electric powered BiblioBike.

    In collaboration with Area X.O operated by Invest Ottawa, InDro Robotics, Algonquin College Robotics and Automation Program, and local school robotics clubs.

    Pour la journée Star Wars, le 4 mai, nous voulons vous inspirer à apprendre, piquer votre curiosité et favoriser les échanges en présentant des innovations robotiques conçues ici à Ottawa.

    Joignez-vous à la succursale Ruth-E.-Dickinson de la Bibliothèque publique d’Ottawa, à Zone X.O (exploitée par Investir Ottawa), à InDro Robotics, au programme de génie et d’automatisation du Collège Algonquin et à des clubs scolaires locaux de robotique pour une activité portes ouvertes amusante, gratuite et informative.

    Logo for AreaX

    Logo for Indro Robotics

    Logo for Algongquin College

  • Dickinson Reads

    Wednesdays, May 08, 2024 - Jun 12, 2024
    10:00am
    60 minutes

    2 sessions remaining

    We meet to enjoy lively good-natured discussions of a wide variety of books selected by our members. All assessments, interpretations, and opinions are valued and respected. Everyone is welcome!​

  • Bedtime Math

    Thursdays, May 09, 2024 - Jun 06, 2024
    6:00pm
    45 minutes

    2 sessions remaining

    An evening family storytime program that encourages mathematical thinking through playful learning and hands-on activites.

    Engage, Encourage and Grow Together.

    For young thinkers ages 3-6 and their adult co-learner.

  • Happy Cat: Peaceful Playful Crafting

    Friday May 10, 2024 at 3:30pm
    60 minutes

    Happy Cat: Peaceful, Playful Crafting

    For those looking for a quiet creative outlet to unleash their imaginations.

    Welcoming creators ages 6-9.

    All materials provided.

  • Tuesdays, May 14, 2024 - Jun 11, 2024
    3:00pm
    120 minutes

    2 sessions remaining

    The Granny Squares for Warmth (GSFW) group was created in November 2020 as a Barrhaven-based group with a mission to create and donate hand-made blankets in the Ottawa area. ​

    In addition to blankets, members have also made and donated shawls, hats, and baby wear. ​

    Join us to crochet and join granny squares, to share and learn crochet stitches and techniques and to build a sense of community by making blankets for those in need. ​
    Everyone is welcome!

  • Night Owls Book Club

    Thursdays, May 16, 2024 - Jun 20, 2024
    6:00pm
    60 minutes

    2 sessions remaining

    New to independent reading?

    Join our family book club and discover great reading suggestions to get you started and keep you going. 

    We will share favorites, listen to read-alouds and participate in book-related art activities.

    For kids ages 6-8 and their adult reading partner.

  • Thursdays, May 23, 2024 - Jun 20, 2024
    7:00pm
    60 minutes

    2 sessions remaining

    Join us for a discussion of cookbooks and recipes. Try a recipe from each month’s cookbook selection and tell us what you think! ​
    All are welcome. 

  • Barrhaven Builders Club

    Friday May 24, 2024 at 3:30pm
    90 minutes

    Get creative with our Gears, Gears, Gears, Magformers, Keva Planks, Lego, Meccano, K'nex, VEX Robotics and more.

    Drop-in between 3:30 and 5:00pm to build, construct, engineer and design with us.

    Open to ages 5+

  • 3 seedings in brown pots in a row

    Saturday May 25, 2024 at 1:00pm
    180 minutes

    Did you start too many seedlings?
    Have some extra perennials or houseplants?

    Bring them to the Ruth E. Dickinson Branch Spring Plant Swap and take some other plants home!

    Weather permitting, we'll be set up outside of the branch near the main entrance. 

    Please don't forget to clearly label your plants.