Residents will have the chance to check out the new Clearwater Library this weekend during an Open House event hosted by Lambton County Libraries.
The event, happening Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. includes activities, prizes and more,.
“We’re excited to invite the community to our Open House so we can show-off this new library space,” said Darlene Coke, manager, library services. “While public libraries can often still be known for their collection of books, it is important to recognize that today public libraries are dynamic community meeting places where people of all ages spend time and can learn, play, and grow.”
The Clearwater Library was officially opened in April following the renovation of a former community hall inside the second floor of the Clearwater Arena. Library service is delivered in partnership between the two levels of local government; the County of Lambton operates the library service and the City of Sarnia provides a physical space for library services.
In addition to books, public libraries provide access to online resources like certificate courses, free wi-fi, private meeting spaces, and an expanding collection that includes items like binoculars, fishing poles, and Ontario Parks passes, Coke added.
Throughout the day, attendees will have the chance to win prizes, explore the resources available at Clearwater Library, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the community hub at Clearwater Arena where physical activity and literacy connect.
Activities include:
• A family storytime, featuring seed bomb making with native Ontario wildflower seeds;
• An opportunity for kids to step into the shoes of an archaeologist with Leeanne Doxtator from the Museum of Ontario Archaeology, to experience hands-on digging and learn about archaeological techniques;
• Face painting with Fairy Tale Face Painting; and
• An Open Skate session at the Clearwater Arena, where families can join beloved characters Buzz & Honey for a fun-filled skating experience.
Schedule of Events:
• 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.: Saturday Storytime - Dive into a world of plants through books, activities, and songs. Afterwards, children can create their own seed bombs using native Ontario wildflower seeds.
• 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.: Beginner Archaeology for Kids - Experience a day in the life of an archaeologist with Leeanne Doxtator from the Museum of Ontario Archaeology. Kids will learn about archaeological techniques and get hands-on experience with a simulated dig.
• 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.: Face Painting with Fairy Tale Face Painting - Transform into your favorite fairy tale character or animal with whimsical face painting.
• 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.: Open Skate with Buzz & Honey - Join Buzz & Honey for a fun-filled open skate session at the Clearwater Arena, which can be conveniently viewed from the Library.
Clearwater Library is one of 25 branch libraries operated by Lambton County Library and governed by Lambton County Council. Lambton County Library has approximately 25,000 valid library card holders and in 2023, Lambton County Library circulated 1,053,297 items.