All aboard for the final leg of our tour around the world, with Sweden, Nigeria, and Spain! Join us the third Tuesday of each month where we will discuss a title set in a different country and/or written by a foreign author.

When you register, we will reserve a copy of the book for you - no need to place a hold, unless you would like to enjoy the book in a different format. This is the last chance to get your Reader's Passport stamped before the summer!

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.

Do you have children ages 5-8?  Would you like them to read more?  Then join our weekly Reading Buddies program.   Each child will be paired with a teen volunteer for fun and interactive read aloud sessions.  Together they will share the joys of reading in a friendly, encouraging and enthusiastic environment.  Registration required.    

Ages 6 - 12 years old (we will have crafts for younger siblings too).

Learn to speak Wookie (or Wookie sounds): make your own loyal Droid Cubecraft; test a saber in dual circle; complete a scavenger hunt; learn the planets in the Star Wars universe; fly your plane through the death star and knock down some Stormtroopers. For the younger ones: make a Chewbacca puppet and a yoda or lei bun headband. Origami Yoda awaits you! (yes, we have to say it: May the 4th be with you!). 

Please register.