Ready for more than conversation? These 4-week module classes will help build on your English language skills. Beginner and Intermediate sessions. Each session's registration will open three (3) weeks prior to the first class. 

Everyone welcome! Register online.  

You are registering for: Beginner classes : April, 4, 11, 18 and 25 2024

Vous cherchez un peu plus qu'une conversation? Nos classes en format module de 4 semaines vous aideront à développer vos compétences linguistiques en anglais. Sessions au niveau débutant ainsi qu'intermédiaire. Ouverture des inscriptions trois (3) semaines avant la première classe pour chaque session. 

Tous sont bienvenus ! Inscription en ligne.  

Vous vous enregistrez pour: session débutant: les 4, 11, 18 et 25 2024

Listen to a curated list of podcast episodes (see list and links below) on a particular topic or theme and then we meet at the Rockcliffe Park branch for a moderated discussion led by Heather Goldik.

It’s the perfect discussion for time-starved folks. No long books to read! Listen to the podcasts while you commute, do chores or go for a walk. Listening to podcasts is such a great way to learn something new and then further reinforce that knowledge by discussing with others.

This month's theme is Oceans!

In April we’ll be diving deep into the history of the oceans, its animal life and sounds and conservation.

1) Podcast: BBC History Extra

Episode: How Oceans Shaped Human Civilization (25 minutes)

Physicist and oceanographer Helen Czerski discusses the impact of oceans on human civilisations through history, from providing food to connecting trade routes. Plus, she explores how our relationship with the oceans has changed throughout the ages.

2) Podcast: NPR Ted Radio Hour

Episode: An SOS From the Ocean (48 minutes)

For centuries, humans have relied on the oceans for resources and food… but even the deepest sea has its limits. This hour, TED speakers discuss how we can save our seas to save our planet.

3) Podcast: Overheard at National Geographic

Episode: She sails the seas without maps or compasses (35minutes)

A Hawaiian navigator describes how she sails the seas without maps or modern instruments to keep Polynesian wayfinding traditions alive.

4) Podcast: Twenty Thousand Hertz

Episode: 20,000 DBS Under the Sea (26 minutes)

71% of the Earth is covered by water. And most of us imagine it to be a serene, almost silent world. But why should we have all the fun up here? Discover what sound is like just below the surface and all the way down to the ocean’s depths. And see how mankind might be making it unpleasant for everyone and everything that calls the oceans home.

About Heather

Heather has worked in libraries for over 15 years. As Adult Service Coordinator at the Nelson Public Library in BC—and inspired by her love of learning through books, podcasts, and conversation — Heather started a podcast club. Now living in the Ottawa area, Heather is happy to be sharing her interests with Rockcliffe Park.  This is her second podcast club event at Rockcliffe Park.

Presented by Dying With Dignity Canada (Ottawa Chapter), End of Life Options (including MAiD) is a workshop to educate people about the options available to mitigate or end suffering at life's end, including palliative care, treatment options, and Medical Assistance In Dying (MAiD). Workshop includes the current legislation on MAiD, the process for applying in Ontario and explanation of the experience by a loved one.

Présenté par Mourir dans la dignité (section d’Ottawa), l’atelier Options de fin de vie (y compris l’aide médicale à mourir) vise à fournir de l’information sur les options offertes pour atténuer ou faire cesser les souffrances en fin de vie, dont les soins palliatifs, les options de traitement et l’aide médicale à mourir (AMM). On y abordera la législation actuelle en matière d’AMM, le processus pour la demander en Ontario et l’expérience pour les proches.

Do you need help with your tax return? If you have a modest income and a simple tax situation, trained volunteers may be able to complete your tax return for you for free. Ottawa Public Library is partnering with the Canada Revenue Agency to offer free tax preparation through the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program.

The Ruth E. Dickinson branch will be offering free tax clinics in English on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Before arriving at the free tax clinics, you must verify whether you meet the Canada Revenue Agency’s eligibility criteria and ensure to bring the appropriate documentation with you. Our volunteers will not process self-employment or business taxes. 

Click on the "View full schedule" button on the right of the screen to see when the clinics will be offered.