All-Candidates’ Meeting
Thursday, October 8, 6:30-9:30PM at the Bourgeois Community Centre
Midland Public Library is excited to host an all-candidates meeting, Thursday, October 8, 6:30-9:30 PM at the Bourgeois Community Centre.
Introductory statements and the Q&A period will be moderated.
As the BCC is a public building, no campaign materials are permitted. The event will be live and in-person only. We hope you’ll join us!
Adult Summer Reading Program
June 26 – Sept. 7
No registration required.
Submit your ballot online. Opens June 26.
Why should kids have all the fun? Collect your ballot at check out or via our website and tell us about your reading experience for your chance to win 1 of 3 gift certificates to local Midland businesses.
Be sure to check out the MPL Summer Reading Guide for great reading recommendations for all ages.
Adult Summer Photography Contest: Dive In
Jul. 1 – Sep. 7
Email your entry to [email protected] by 11:59pm on Sep. 7.
Capture the magic of the season with our 2026 theme: Dive In! Submit your best original photo for a chance to win an exciting prize package.
Open to all MPL members ages 18 and up. Please ensure all photo submissions are appropriate for the whole community to enjoy.
Simcoe Reads
8 Books. 8 Libraries. 1 Winner.
Join your Library for our annual Simcoe Reads event! A champion from each community has chosen a book they think everyone in Simcoe County should read right now. Our competitors are Barrie, Bradford, Essa, Innisfil, New Tecumseth, Ramara, and Severn Public Libraries!
Our local champion, Nahanni Born, has chosen Bob Joseph’s engaging and relevant book, 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act.
Virtual Visit with Bob Joseph
Tuesday, September 22, 6:00PM
Join us in person at Midland Public Library, or online.
Hosted by champion Nahanni Born, Bob Joseph will virtually visit the Midland Public Library and Simcoe Reads participants for an author talk. Register HERE.
Simcoe Reads Debate
Tuesday, September 29, 6:30PM
At the John Hayter Southshore Community Centre
After a summer of reading terrific books, interacting with the authors and your community’s champion, please plan to join us for the final event: a conversation between the 8 champions representing Barrie Public Library, Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library, Essa Public Library, Innisfil ideaLab & Library, Midland Public Library, New Tecumseth Public Library, Ramara Public Library, and Severn Public Library. This in-person event will be at the John Hayter Southshore Community Centre, 205 Lakeshore Dr, Barrie ON L4N 7Y9 on Tuesday, September 29, at 6:30 pm. Audience voting will happen the night of the event to determine the number one book to be read in Simcoe County. Register HERE.
Join in the social media discussion by using #SimcoeReads2026.
Sound Advice – On Hearing Health
Tuesday, September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 10:15AM-12:15PM
Join Canadian Hearing Services and learn about:
• Understanding hearing loss and aging
• Communication strategies over the phone
• Communication in difficult listening situations
• Basic troubleshooting of hearing aids
• How counsellors can help
• Canadian Hearing Services Programs and supports
Please plan to attend all 5 sessions. The Canadian Hearing Society will require additional information upon registration.
Genealogy Tips for Success
Thursday, September 3, 2-3pm
This session offers practical tips and strategies to help you make the most of your genealogy research. Learn how to uncover valuable information, organize your findings so they’re easy to access, and use helpful library tools and resources.
Adult Take & Make: Granola
Available from Sept 9 while supplies last
Adults
Learn how easy it is to make a delicious yogurt topping or standalone snack! Each kit contains the materials and instructions needed to make a basic granola, with suggestions for customization. Reserve a kit in advance online or swing by the library to see if kits are still available. Limit 1 kit per library card.
Midland Summer Movies
Thursdays at Dusk
MPL is joining up with the Town of Midland to show some great movies this summer! Join us in Little Lake Park at Rotary Stage with your snacks! When it starts to get dark, the movie will start! (Weather permitting; movies subject to change).
Thursday, July 23, 8:30pm start – The Little Mermaid (1989) – Sponsored by Morden Construction
Thursday, August 6, 8:30pm start – Atlantis
Thursday, August 13, 8:30pm start – Finding Nemo – Sponsored by Bryson Bumstead, Realtor
Friday, September 11, 8:30pm start – Finding Dory – Sponsored by Huronia Alarm & Fire Security Inc.
Thanks to our community partners!
History Sessions with Midland’s Heritage Committee: Heritage Property Evaluations & Protecting Our Cultural Heritage
Tuesday, September 15, 11am
Join the next session in our series exploring Midland’s past, with stories, photos, and insights from members of the Town of Midland’s Heritage Committee. In this presentation, Tomasz Wierzba, Manager of Planning Services will provide:
- an overview of the legal and procedural aspects of designating a heritage property.
- an overview of the work done to support a designation.
- address some of the myths and realities of designating a property under the Ontario Heritage Act.
Event partners: 
Indigenous Crafting with Enaahtig Healing Lodge
Tuesday, Sept 15, 2-4PM
Tuesday, Oct 27, 2-4PM
Adults
Join us to learn about Indigenous culture while creating a traditional craft. Colleen from Enaahtig Healing Lodge will lead us through the steps to make our items while answering questions and providing information about the Lodge in our community. These sessions will focus on beading, so we ask that you choose only one of the two sessions to allow more people to experience this activity. Registration required.
Voices of Belonging: A Story-Sharing Project for Newcomers
Wednesdays, September 16, 23, 30, October 7, 14, 21, 6:00-7:45PM
Join the Midland Multicultural Association to share your story of coming to Canada, and hear from community members. Share and find out more about what it’s like being a first-generation Canadian. We’ll have social time and snacks! Join us through the fall and on October 21 at 6PM for a special open house sharing food, music, and more.
Story-sharing may include:
- Personal background and identity
- The journey to Canada
- First experiences and surprises
- Challenges and supports
- Culture, food, language, and family traditions
- What home means now
- Hopes for the future
- Advice newcomers would give others
Thanks to the Rotary Impact Club of District 7010. Feel free to drop in! If you’d like to find out more please contact Mitra Doherty, [email protected].
Workshop: Navigating Life After Difficult Experiences
Wednesday, September 16, 5:30-7:30pm
Registered Social Service Worker (RSSW) & Peer Support Facilitator, Venita Wilson, from Through the Grey, explores how difficult experiences shape the way we think, feel and connect. Together we’ll discuss strategies for practicing self-reflection, emotional awareness, and establishing healthy relationships.
A light meal & refreshments will be provided.
Event partners: 
Getting Your Garden Winter-Ready
Thursday, Sept 17, 6:30-7:30PM
Adults
Want your gardens to look their best come spring? Join Simcoe County Master Gardener Scott to learn tips and tricks for winter garden preparation that will make your blooms the envy of your neighbours in the new year! Registration required.
Free Dance Workshop with Lasya – Poetry of Footsteps
Saturday, September 19, 2pm
Join us from 2-3pm on Saturday, September 19, for a free, fun, all ages dance workshop with Lasya – Poetry of Footsteps, winner of the County of Simcoe’s Newcomer Artist Award, as part of the Week of Welcome!
Cultural and colourful dress encouraged!
With thanks to the Heart of Georgian Bay Community Forward Fund.
Virtual Visit with Bob Joseph
Tuesday, September 22, 6:00PM
Join us in person at Midland Public Library, or online. Register HERE.
Hosted by Simcoe Reads champion Nahanni Born, Bob Joseph will virtually visit the Midland Public Library and Simcoe Reads participants for an author talk on his book, 21 Things You May Not Know about the Indian Act.
With thanks to the Heart of Georgian Bay Community Forward Fund.
Indigenous Plant Usage, with Shawn Corbiere
Tuesday, September 22, 3pm
Join Shawn Corbiere to find out more about traditional Indigenous plant usage, celebrating Indigenous Art and Culture Week! Free; register here.
The Silencing Movie Talk and Snacks
Wednesday, September 23, 5:30PM
Join Midland Public Library for a Movie Talk & Snack featuring The Silencing. Enjoy an engaging discussion with consultant Shawn Corbiere, who contributed to the production. Gain unique behind-the-scenes insight and perspectives on the film’s themes while connecting with others in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Snacks will be provided. Register HERE.
Intro to Sewing
Thursdays, Oct 8-22, 6-7:30PM
Adults
Learn the basics of sewing with these three introductory sessions! Each session will focus on a different aspect of sewing, so register for any of the sessions that meet your needs. Oct 8 focuses on hand-sewing skills, learning different stitches as well as mending buttons and small holes; Oct 15 introduces participants to machine sewing and how to use these skills to make basic alterations like darts and hems; Oct 22 teaches participants to read patterns and develop their own. Registration required.
The Next Chapter Book Club with Mature Minds
Tuesday mornings, 10:30am-12pm from Oct. 13 – Nov. 17
Celebrating this chapter of life (and the next!). Join Mature Minds, a program of CFS, counselling & wellbeing, & MPL for six weeks of fun, friends, snacks and great reads as we celebrate this chapter of life through literature! Subsidies for books are available.
Participants are required to be 55+.
Event partners: 
Celebrate Ontario Public Library Week!
October 19-24
We’re celebrating Ontario Public Library Week! Join us for great events and more. We’re also having food for fines—from Oct. 19-24 bring in a non-perishable food item to receive $1 in fine forgiveness (up to $10). Thanks for loving your library!
Guardians of Georgian Bay: A Look at the ‘State of the Bay’ with Georgian Bay Forever
Tuesday, October 20, 2-3pm
Join Nicholas Love from Georgian Bay Forever for an engaging look at the past, present, and future of Georgian Bay. In this accessible environmental science presentation, you’ll learn about the challenges facing the Bay, including water quality, invasive species, climate change, and microplastics. You’ll also discover how people and organizations are working together to protect this remarkable ecosystem for generations to come.
Event partners: 
AI Basics for Beginners
Wednesday, October 21, 6-7:30pm
This beginner-friendly session explores what AI is, how large language models work, and how these tools are being used in everyday life. Through engaging examples and discussion, participants will gain a better understanding of the technology’s capabilities and limitations.
Discover Local Black Voices: Rhythm, Story, and Song!
Saturday, October 24, 1:00-3:30PM
Join local entertainers J. Nichole Noel, Venita Wilson, Michelle Guy, and Errol Lee and his Caring Concerts, celebrating Black creativity and joy! Come to be in community and be entertained with spoken word, music, and author readings. We’ll have refreshments from Northern Caribbean Restaurant! In partnership with Making Change Simcoe County. Please register so we know to expect you. Register HERE.
With thanks to the Heart of Georgian Bay Community Forward Fund.
Intro to 3D Printing
Thursday, October 29, 6-7:45PM
Teens/Adults
Learn to use our 3D printer with our expert volunteer Tim! This is the course you need to complete to use the equipment in our Maker Lab independently. Registration required. Can’t make the class? Our courses are now available online! Check out our website for details.
Right Size & Thrive Seminar
Planning Your Next Chapter – Wills, Smart Money Strategies & Housing Choices
Registration encouraged – click dates above to register.
Thinking about the next chapter of life? Join us for a friendly and informative session designed to help you make confident decisions about your home, finances, and future. Local experts will answer common questions about wills and estate planning, share creative financial strategies to help preserve and pass on your wealth, and explore housing options for the years ahead. You’ll leave with practical insight and renewed motivation to live your best life now and in retirement.
No need to RSVP, hosted in the lower boardroom. Coffee, tea and sweet treats provided. Doors open 12:30pm, presentation starts at 1pm.
Presented by: Team Jordan
Mahjong Meetup
Last Tuesday of the month, 10am-12pm
Whether you’re a seasoned player or learning the game, all are welcome at our monthly Mahjong meetup! Enjoy casual games, friendly competition, and a chance to explore both American and Chinese styles.
Drop-in, no registration required.
Email [email protected] for more information or to join the mailing list.
First Chapter Indigenous Book Club
MPL’s book club exploring Indigenous authors, works, and topics. The club is currently full. Contact Faith, [email protected] or 705-526-4216 ext. 3305, to get on a wait list.
For previously read titles, click here.
The Top Floor Writers’ Group: MPL’s Community-Led Writers’ Group
In person
2nd Wednesday of the month, 6-7:30pm
Join an enthusiastic, informal and volunteer-led writer’s circle to improve your craft, regardless of your level of experience. Open to all genres – this group is open to anyone interested in the writing process.
For more information contact Jenn at [email protected].
All Ages Uke Jam in the Library!
2nd Wednesday of the Month, 6-7:30pm
Drop-in. No registration required. Contact Jenn at [email protected] to join the mailing list to receive the songs/chords to practice in advance.
Bring your uke and join the fun! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned strummer, all ages and skill levels are welcome at this relaxed, all-ages jam session. Play along, learn new songs, and make music with your community!
Bring your own ukulele—or borrow one while supplies last!
B.Y.O.B (Bring Your Own Book) Club
Virtual
Last Wednesday of the month, 7-8pm
Join friendly readers to discuss what you’ve been reading lately via Zoom. New members are always welcome!
- Wednesday, September 30, 7PM—Read a book by an author that is prolific, but new to you.
- Wednesday, October 28, 7PM—Read a book that inspires curiosity about a topic you’d like to learn more about.
Email [email protected] for more information or to receive the online meeting information.
Need help finding a title to fit our prompt? Visit our personal reading recommendations page.
Genealogy Club
3rd Thursday of the month, 2-3pm
Whether you’re starting your family tree or have years of research in hand, our informal monthly gathering of genealogists and local history enthusiasts offers a welcoming space to swap stories, share research tips and tricks, and connect with others passionate about tracing roots and uncovering the past.
Drop-in, no registration required.
Email [email protected] for more information or to join the mailing list.
Midland Makers
1st Thursday of the month, 6:30-7:45PM
Adults
Attention all crafters, creators, and DIY-ers! Drop in the first Thursday evening each month to work on your projects, troubleshoot or learn something new with other members of the community. This is a casual way to explore MPL’s MakerPlace and discover new hobbies. Email [email protected] to find out more. No registration required.
**Please note there will be no January meeting due to holiday closures.
Community-Led French Conversation Group
In-Person
Drop-In Fridays, 11am-12pm
Practice your French conversation skills & meet new people in a relaxed environment. Newcomers always welcome! For more information contact Jenn at [email protected].
Tech Help
Fridays, 1-4PM
Figuring out a new device? Giving video chat a try? If you’ve got a question about today’s technology or are looking for a little guidance, then we’re here to help! Drop by on Friday afternoons to see our volunteer tech tutors. Don’t forget all your necessary devices and cables! Sessions are provided on a first come, first served basis.
Build Your Business – Virtual 1-1 Research and Referrals
Interested in starting or building your small business or entrepreneurship idea, but don’t know where to start? We can be your point of connection to all the great resources available for new or expanding business owners, saving you time! We can also introduce you to the great resources available via your Library, like Simply Analytics, LinkedIn Learning, and more.
Email Faith at fshergold at midlandlibrary.com or call 705-526-4216 ext. 3305 to book your FREE virtual 1-1 today.
Online Author Talks with Library Speakers Consortium
Virtual author visits from bestselling authors and thought leaders.
Don’t miss any of our upcoming online author talks with the Library Speakers Consortium. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter.
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