Library

The Ottawa Public Library is a tremendous resource with one main library and 32 community branches including three district branches, two bookmobiles and one kiosk. Click on the image below to find a location near you:

In addition to books, DVDs, CDs, e-books/audiobooks and other digital resources, the OPL provides access passes giving free family admission to local museums, galleries and other sites of interest.

Other resources include booking a public computer to access free internet or word processing software; booking a meeting room; newcomer services; accessibility services; homebound and talking book services for qualified borrowers; and interlibrary loans. And many branches sell donated or withdrawn books, usually ranging in price from 50¢ (children’s) to $2 (adult hardcover).

Sm@rtLibrary is a partnership of libraries in the National Capital Region that allows you to search partner catalogues with one search engine. Partnering museum and university libraries—some of which also lend to OPL cardholders—include the Canadian War Museum, the Museum of Civilization, Library and Archives Canada, Canada Institute for Scientific and Technical Information (CISTI), Carleton University, University of Ottawa, Algonquin College and Dominican College.

A search for ‘library’ on the Parent Resource Centre Incredible Directory leads to a fascinating array of book and toy libraries. The Nepean Centrepointe branch of the Ottawa Public Library is home to Imagine Space, a makerspace providing facilities for 3D printing and modeling; laser cutting; photo, video and audio editing; a green screen and video gear; as well as hand tools and electronics. As noted here, all Ottawa neightbourhoods could benefit from the presence of freecycle centres, maker spaces and tool libraries.

Check out our Sharing and For Free pages for more handy tips. And if you’re on Twitter please RT your support for the OPL and Slow Ottawa by clicking on the message below. Thanks for getting the word out!