What Types of Services Are Available

Libraries in Lanark and Renfrew counties have many resourceful libraries. Apart from offering books and digital resources, these libraries offer many other services that can help residents, especially newcomers, navigate the complexities of life and make friends through many cultural and educational events. Most libraries offer the following services:

• Book Requests/ Inter-Library Loans

• Outreach at-home delivery services

• Exam Proctoring

• Research Assistance

• Printing, Faxing and Scanning Services

• Museum/Park Passes

• Literacy Kits

• Internet Access

• Multicultural Festivals/Cultural Events

• Newcomer Services/Resources

Some examples of programs that can be offered by libraries:

• Adult Programs (Book Clubs, Meditation Groups, Craft Workshops, Tech Services)

• Teen Programs (Drivers License Prep, Study Prep)

• Children’s Programs (Book Clubs, Early Literacy Programs, Cultural Teachings)

Make sure to create an online library account. You can use your library card (and login) to use the following library resources:

• Find your next great novel. Libraries will also curate collections based on your needs. Books in other languages can be ordered using the interlibrary loan service.

• English as a Second Language (ESL) chat groups to learn and practice English. Many libraries are willing to provide free space for anyone who would like to host a free ESL group. There are also free ESL language learning resources available. 

• Volunteer opportunities for newcomers.

• Meeting and study rooms can be booked at no cost or a small fee depending on the duration of the booking.

• Borrow ebooks and audiobooks anytime. Read on your phone, tablet, eReader or computer! 

• Get free access to thousands of movies. Enjoy critically-acclaimed movies, inspiring documentaries, award-winning foreign films and more.

• Get access to thousands of the world’s top newspapers and magazines as soon as they’re available on shelves online.

Review the Ontario Public Library Resource Guide for Newcomers. 

Libraries also offer WiFi networks for free but during the COVID-19 pandemic, they have offered limited computer and technology services. Existing services are that patrons can have free public computer access but for a maximum of 60 minutes per customer per day. They also offer colour or black and white printing, copying, scanning and faxing available for a fee. If you have your own device, you can continue to use free online resources throughout the day. WiFi continues to be available for free outside the library with no time limits.

Through their volunteer program, some libraries deliver resources to customers’ homes or places of residence when they are unable to visit the library. To take advantage of this option, you must have a valid library card. 

Additionally, there are museum and park passes that can be borrowed with the library card. 

All libraries have free homework help for children free of charge. When and for what age depends on the library. Registration is needed. Below is an example of the page where you can register your child for homework help. register your child for homework help.

There are fun things to do with kids at the library. It offers free programs and activities for children of all ages, including storytimes, arts and crafts, and science experiments. They provide a variety of opportunities for children to tinker, play and create throughout the year, so check this page often to see their current and upcoming programs. All children and family programs are free and don’t require a library card to participate unless otherwise specified.  The kids’ programs encourage a love of reading in children.  This program incorporates simple practices to encourage literacy skill-building; Talking, Singing, Playing, Reading, Writing.

You can find further links for services, events and programs at different libraries: 

• Brockville Library, Kids Programs

• Perth Union Library, Events

• Pembroke Library, Programs/Services

• Mississippi Mills Library, Events/Programs