News

CE-Opening

Opening the Doors to Collections and Creativity with Caledon Public Library’s New Caledon East Branch

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Caledon, ON – With the official Grand Opening Celebration of the expanded Caledon East Community Complex, Caledon Public Library (CPL) celebrated the relocation of the Caledon East Branch to the delight of the community on September 16, 2023.

“Now found at 6215 Old Church Road in Caledon East, all can enjoy more space and full-service hours, within easy access to recreation amenities including a gym, walking track, pool and twin ice-pads.”, states Colleen Lipp, Caledon Public Library’s CEO & Chief Librarian. “As our community grows, we continue to effectively respond to the needs of our residents.”

The Caledon East Branch has collections for children, teens and adults, spaces for customers to bring their own device or to borrow a laptop for use in the branch at its bar seating, comfortable lounge chairs and tables, four small meeting rooms and a wonderful children’s area with plenty of floor space for programs. Not only does CPL have collections in the branch and online, library card holders can also borrow audiobooks, videogames, DVDs and graphic novels. Check out CPL’s Library of Things where members can take out guitars, dhol drums, GoPros, hotspots, park passes and so much more! Contrary to what many may think, there is no need for you to be quiet while in the Library. It’s a lively space where all can meet and chat with friends and do group work – though the branch does offer some study rooms for those who would like a little quiet.

“Libraries are no longer simply a place where you retrieve content, they are a place where you create and share your own content.”, states Tony Maxwell, Caledon Public Library Board Chair. “The inclusion of the new Cory Trépanier Creativity Studio truly reflects CPLs’ commitment to its values of innovation and creativity.”

The Cory Trépanier Creativity Studio is named after Caledon resident and world-renowned oil painter, filmmaker and explorer, known for his passionate portrayal of Canadian landscapes. Cory’s legacy includes encouraging artists to fearlessly follow their creative dreams, he urged his audience to connect with nature as a source of inspiration and self-discovery. The studio celebrates the marriage of art and innovation and provides the community with access to emerging technologies and maker tools including 3D printers, a laser cutter, a green screen, sewing and embroidery machines and tools to empower and encourage creativity.

“I’m so excited to see how this creative studio can inspire and house the next generation of artists and makers in Caledon, and I hope that Cory’s story and infectious optimism and sense of adventure will continue to inspire all who move through this space to explore both the natural beauty of Caledon and their own endless creative potential,” said Andie Trépanier, artist and eldest child of Cory Trépanier. “It’s so moving and meaningful to see Cory’s legacy featured in a communal space where his story can continue to inspire the next generation of creators.”

This Creativity Studio isn’t just a collection of tools; it’s a catalyst for innovation and artistic interpretation. It’s a space where a child’s curiosity can transform into a lifelong passion for science or art. It’s a place where people of all ages can learn new skills, from sewing to photography, from digital design to basic engineering principles, and apply them in meaningful ways. Ultimately, the Cory Trépanier Creativity Studio represents a commitment to the growth and development of our community. It’s an investment in our future, fostering a generation of thinkers, artists, creatives, and problem-solvers.

Caledon Public Library truly has something for everyone. Be sure to visit the new Caledon East library branch and the Cory Trépanier Creativity Studio.

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CPL Releases Growth Plan

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Caledon, ON – The Caledon Public Library has recently unveiled its Comprehensive Growth Plan, outlining its vision and strategies for the future. With a focus on facility needs, this plan takes a long-term perspective, extending recommendations up to the year 2041.

To facilitate the development of the Comprehensive Growth Plan, the library engaged TCI Management Consultants. Their comprehensive approach included conducting a public survey that responses from over 1000 Caledon residents and businesses and interviews with community leaders. Results found that residents strongly desire the retention of smaller library branches in Alton, Caledon Village, and Inglewood. Feedback also recognized the value of online services and the need to expand both physical and digital collections. Keeping pace with available technologies and bridging the digital divide emerged as priorities.

“In tandem with our strategic plan, the Comprehensive Growth Plan ensures that the library is not only meeting the current needs of Caledon residents but also implementing strategies to keep pace with the community’s anticipated growth over the next 20 years”, says Colleen Lipp, CEO and Chief Librarian. “The decision to develop this plan was prompted by Caledon’s revised population forecasts, indicating the need for proactive measures to cater to the increasing demands of our community.”

One significant finding from the consultants’ analysis was that Caledon currently falls well below the recommended standards in terms of library space. An adoption of a space standard of 0.85 square feet per person was recommended, which is a notable increase from the current 0.51 square feet calculated for Caledon. This standard also includes meeting accessibility requirements and addressing the increased demand for public spaces for meetings and study.

The Comprehensive Growth Plan comprises of 14 key recommendations including the adoption of a four-stage growth plan, calling for the creation of 130,000 square feet of new library space to meet the needs for service in Caledon’s quickly growing urban areas over the next 20 years. Recommendations also reflect the Library’s commitment to serving Caledon’s rural and village communities and include, the implementation of open access technologies at the smaller branches and the introduction of popup or mobile services to underserved areas. The plan also explores opportunities to grow physical and digital collections and services in pace with the population and in response to demand for languages beyond English.

“The introduction of the Comprehensive Growth Plan demonstrates the Caledon Public Library’s commitment to serving its community and preparing for future growth”, states Tony Maxwell, Caledon Public Library Board Chair. “By addressing current and future needs and embracing innovative approaches, the library aims to enhance library services and respond to the evolving expectations of Caledon’s diverse population.”

To find the summary report along with the full comprehensive growth plan, visit the library website.

CE-rendering

Preparing for our NEW Caledon East Branch

June 24, 2023 will be the last day of service at Caledon Public Library’s (CPL) current Caledon East branch located in the Robert F. Hall Secondary School. The new location will be in the expanded Caledon East Community Complex at 6215 Old Church Road, Caledon East L7C 1J7.

“We are grateful for the long-lasting partnership with the Dufferin Peel Catholic District School Board”, states Colleen Lipp, Caledon Public Library’s CEO & Chief Librarian. “The shared branch in R.F.Hall was instrumental to CPL’s early efforts to serve the Caledon East community. We expect that this new branch will be a destination for students of all ages outside of school hours.”

The relocated Caledon East Branch, will offer more space and full-service hours, all within easy access to recreation amenities including a gym, walking track, pool and twin ice-pads. The new branch will also be home to the Cory Trépanier Creativity Studio. This space will provide the community with access to emerging technologies and maker tools including 3D printers, a laser cutter, a green screen, and tools to empower and encourage creativity.

The drop box at the current location will be available until July 2nd and the drop box at the new location will open on July 3rd. Holds pick-up will be temporarily unavailable at both locations, however it will resume at the new location well in advance of the facility opening on September 5th.

“We are excited to be able to offer our customers a brand-new branch in Caledon East later in 2023”, states Lipp. “During the transition, we encourage customers to visit our six other branches including the Margaret Dunn Valleywood Collaboration Studio that has been reimagined into a space offering new and innovative services and technologies including a makerspace and recording studio as well as spaces for working, learning, and meeting.”

For more details including location and hours of operation for all our branches, click here.

CO2-Monitor

Breathe Easier with Caledon Public Library

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Caledon, ON – Just how healthy is the air you’re breathing in your home?

To help find out, Caledon Public Library (CPL) has added new carbon dioxide monitoring technology to its Library of Things collection.

Per Health Canada, “Carbon dioxide is a gas pollutant found in indoor and outdoor air that can come from cigarette smoking, unvented or poorly vented fuel-burning appliances, by breathing and more. The presence of increased levels of carbon dioxide may have impacts on our general well-being, including fatigue and headaches, and difficulty concentrating.”

The new Aranet4 CO₂ monitors, generously provided by Community Access to Ventilation Information (CAVI), will generally indicate the quality of indoor air and how well ventilated an area is. The monitor’s readings could help inform decisions on whether improvements are required, like opening windows, swapping appliances, or reducing the number of occupants in a space.

“We appreciate Community Access To Ventilation Information for supporting the addition of the Aranet4 CO₂ monitors to our collection”, states Colleen Lipp, CEO & Chief Librarian. “They complement the radon detectors which are available in the Fall and Winter months, and kill-a-watt power monitors which are already are available through our Library of Things. We’re glad to offer yet another tool with which our customers can monitor the safety and efficiency of their homes.”

There are 10 Aranet4 CO₂ monitors available from CPL that can be borrowed for up to 21 days. For more information about CPL’s Library of Things, or to place a hold on a device, visit the library’s website.

2023_Elvis

Elvis Tribute Concert & Fundraiser

There will be a Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On June 2 at the Albion Bolton Fairgrounds with an Elvis Tribute concert and fundraiser for Caledon Public Library (CPL). Sing along to Johnny B. Goode, Blue Suede Shoes, I Can’t Stop Loving You, Hound Dog and more.

Enjoy an evening of Elvis favourites with two Elvis Tributes, starring Bruno Nesci, one of the 2022 top 5 finalists at Graceland, and featuring Eric Evangelista, a Collingwood Elvis festival grand champion, re-creating the 1970 opening show that Elvis performed at the Las Vegas Hilton. To mark the 50th Anniversary, Bruno will also be re-creating the full-scale concert of Aloha from Hawaii.

Presented by Dreamers Entertainment & Stage Academy Theatre Association, in support of Caledon Public Library, the event will run 7:30 – 10pm with seating outside (weather permitting) in the Fairgrounds parking lot. Tickets can be purchased at CPL’s Albion Bolton branch or online at https://caledon.library.on.ca/elvis/ Concessions will be sold at the event (cash only) and proceeds will go to CPL.

“Caledon Public Library is so appreciative of Dreamers Entertainment & Stage Academy Theatre Association to involve us in this fun community event”, said Colleen Lipp, CEO and Chief Librarian of Caledon Public Library. “It will be an enjoyable evening for all and it will help fund CPL’s new Memory Station, which will launch at the Albion Bolton Branch in the summer of 2023.” Through fundraising efforts, the Memory Station will be a do-it-yourself (DIY) station which will enable customers to digitize materials including converting old home movies, printed photographs, or slides into a digital format which can be shared online.

2022-Annual-Report

CPL Shares a Year of Growth & Change with Their 2022 Annual Report Video

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Caledon, ON – Did you know that Caledon Public Library (CPL) added Go Pro cameras, walking poles, travel adapters and more musical instruments to their Library of Things? That over 10,000 people attended a combination of in-person and virtual programs? That they expanded their Artful Caledon initiative to include musicians and studios that offer spaces and services for the community to learn and experience their own creativity?

All of this, and more, is shared in Caledon Public Library’s new Annual Report 2022 video. The video features original music by Carri One Music Production, narration by radio station host Rick Sargent, with brilliant video filming and editing by Lucky Element Media (Caledon).

“2022 was a year of growth and change at the Caledon Public Library… with lots to be done and never a dull moment.” said Colleen Lipp, CEO and Chief Librarian of Caledon Public Library. “As we worked to return to our pre-pandemic service levels, we were thrilled to see familiar friends returning to our branches and new faces exploring our services for the first time.”

Video highlights include hosting the first large scale sold-out fundraising event with the screening of the award-winning documentary “The Long Rider”. Over 300,000 website visits, continued partnerships with local businesses, and over 400,000 items borrowed and enjoyed during 2022. Exciting future innovations were also emphasized including the re-opening of the Margaret Dunn Valleywood Collaboration Studio, and the relocation of the Caledon East Branch which will be home to the Cory Trepanier Creativity Studio.

“Ultimately 2022 was a year with far more ups than downs and we remained focused on realizing our vision for the Caledon Public Library,” added Lipp. “To build and connect a thriving, engaged, and informed Caledon – to be the heart of the community. “

The 2022 Annual Report video will be shared on all of CPL’s social media channels and can be permanently found on CPL’s YouTube channel. For information on what CPL has to offer you and your family, please visit caledon.library.on.ca

MDV-Collaboration-Studio-Opening

CPL Celebrates the Opening of the Margaret Dunn Valleywood Collaboration Studio

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Caledon, ON – Caledon Public Library (CPL) is excited to announce the opening of the new Margaret Dunn Valleywood Collaboration Studio. The official opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Saturday, April 29th at 11am with dignitaries and special guests. An open house for the community will take place from 12 noon to 3 pm.

Thanks to federal and provincial support through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), along with the Town of Caledon Public Library, the Margaret Dunn Valleywood Branch has been reimagined into a space offering new innovative services and technologies not yet available anywhere else in Caledon. The modernized branch houses a makerspace and recording studio as well as spaces for working, learning, and meeting… and of course books which focus on supporting these new services with special collections for local businesses and entrepreneurs and an emphasis on technology, making, and creativity. The renovated branch will also continue to act as a pickup and return location for all CPL materials.

“The grand opening of the Margaret Dunn Valleywood Branch at the Caledon Public Library marks the next step in creating a stronger community and improving the well-being of the residents in the Town of Caledon,” said Ruby Sahota, Member of Parliament for Brampton North, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities. “We will keep working collaboratively with our partners to support meaningful investments in infrastructure to build strong and healthy communities for Canadians.”

“Local infrastructure and public libraries are essential for the quality of life and well-being of every community,” said Kinga Surma, Ontario Minister of Infrastructure. “The Margaret Dunn Valleywood Collaboration Studio will connect residents to new services and technologies and empower them to learn, innovate and create. Our government will continue to work with our federal and municipal partners to build key infrastructure in communities across the province.”

“We are excited that these new services will be delivered in the heart of Valleywood and expect that neighborhood residents will take full advantage of all that will be available on their doorstep,” says Colleen Lipp, CPL CEO and Chief Librarian. “With its easy access to Hwy 10 and the 410, we also see this branch as a destination for all of Caledon.”

Not tech savvy, no worries. There is no need to be an expert. Makerspaces are one of the best ways to learn the skills that are essential today and for the future. Equipped with resources such as computers, 3-D printers, audio, and video capture and editing tools, and traditional arts and crafts supplies, they provide a place where people create, invent, learn together, and build skills for life. Libraries around the world are home to these vibrant learning and innovation hubs for co-creation.

The Collaboration Studio will host many maker, technology, and craft workshops facilitated by both CPL staff and experts from the community. Partnerships with the Town’s Economic Development and Recreation Teams and other stakeholders to offer programs and events for local businesses and residents are also planned for the future.

Community-Connections_Minister-Award

CPL Shortlisted for Provincial Innovation Award

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Caledon, ON – Caledon Public Library (CPL) was recently shortlisted for the Minister’s Award for Innovation at the 2022 Ontario Public Library Service Awards for CPL’s Community Connections project.

The Minister’s Award for Innovation, given by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, recognizes successful new approaches that demonstrate a positive impact in a community and are of continued value to public libraries.

“Although we did not win, we are pleased that our unique and growing partnerships with Bethell Hospice and Caledon Community Services, to extend the reach of digital services and help to bridge the digital divide, have been recognized.” said Colleen Lipp, CEO and Chief Librarian of Caledon Public Library. “The Community Connections initiative supports the Caledon community by helping them to connect with loved ones, attend virtual events, gather information, alleviate isolation and providing residents with access to critical services and resources during challenging times.”

The Library pre-loaded digital content onto tablets that Bethell Hospice provided in each of their 10 private resident rooms. CPL also created Community Connection Kits, which include a Chromebook and Internet hotspot, and partnered with Caledon Community Services to ensure those with a demonstrable need had access to them. Within the Community Connections project, local organizations reached beyond their walls to share information and resources with library users and the Caledon community with CPL’s Community Corner.

“This is all part of how Caledon Public Library empowers community connections, sparks innovation and creativity, and energizes the transfer of knowledge. We will have more exciting news to share once our Margaret Dunn Valleywood Branch renovation has been completed. The community will be invited to use our new recording studio, maker tools, collaboration spaces and more,” added Lipp. “You’ll definitely want to see how we continue to grow and innovate in order to respond to community needs.”

Caledon Public Library Launches Public Art Project

CALEDON, ON – Calling all local artists! In Caledon Public Library’s (CPL) ongoing efforts to support homegrown talent, we are seeking applications from local artists for the creation of a public art installation at the Albion Bolton branch. The Library’s goal is to create a clearly defined warm and welcoming entrance to our Children’s area.

Caledon Public Library recognizes that art and culture enhance the quality of life in our community. “We are committed to celebrating culture and inclusion and supporting Caledon’s creative talent and cultural economy by showcasing local authors, artists, performers, and makers” said CEO and Chief Librarian Colleen Lipp.  CPL’s Artful Caledon offers spaces for local creatives of all ages to promote their work both in person and virtually. “This public art project is an extension of our Artful Caledon initiative and will showcase local talent and inject new colour and vibrancy to the space.”

Local artists, designers and creators, are invited to submit their expressions of interest and samples of their artwork along with a creative brief or design concept. Those interested and wanting to learn more about the project can visit www.cpl.social/PublicArtProject or email questions to communications@caledon.library.on.ca

Claudia_teen-sign-designer

Local Teen Creates Signage to be Showcased in Caledon Public Library’s Albion Bolton Branch

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Caledon, ON – Caledon Public Library’s (CPL) Albion Bolton branch recently went through a renovation, including a redesign of the Teen space in the library. Hoping to add a creative spin to the Teen section, CPL reached out to local youth who had submitted artwork for the library’s Fan Art Contest for their signage design ideas.

“As part of our Artful Caledon initiative, we are seeking ways to include local artists in some of our ongoing projects including this signage process,” says Colleen Lipp, CEO & Chief Librarian of CPL. “We were looking for functional art that was decorative and would create a unique sense of place for our teen area.”

Creative submissions were received, with the artwork of local teen, Claudia, chosen as the favourite, to be produced into a four-foot by six-foot (121.92 x 182.88 cm) sign. “I was elated and my family was super happy for me”, says Claudia. “I love creating art and am always looking for more opportunities to do so. After reading the requirements for the sign, I got very excited as I have never created art for something at such a grand scale. I knew that I wanted to submit something fun that captured the multiple interests of teens.”

The Friends of Caledon Public Library, a non-profit, volunteer organization that supports and enhances library services in the Caledon community, awarded Claudia a stipend of $150 for her work.

What’s next for Claudia? “In the future, I hope to study biomedical engineering, neurosciences or aerospace engineering. My favourite courses are math and art, and I always considered careers that follow the more math side of things,” says Claudia. “After creating the artwork for the Albion Bolton Branch, I realized that having art be included in my career would also be great and I have been looking for more opportunities to create since!”

Visit CPL’s Albion Bolton branch to view Claudia’s work, printed and installed by local signage company, Motive Media, and the branch’s new look, if you haven’t already.

Local artists are encouraged to watch caledon.library.on.ca for future opportunities for public art installations at CPL’s branches.

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