Find Community at the Library
Connection is good for us. Research shows that spending time with others, learning together, and sharing common interests contribute to our well-being and sense of belonging. Public libraries are uniquely positioned to bring people together.
At Burlington Public Library, helping people feel connected and empowered to pursue their interests is a key priority of our Strategic Plan 2026–2027. Through programs, events, and community initiatives, we create opportunities for people to connect, learn, and belong.
Why Connection & Community Matter
Staying connected and being part of a community gives people the chance to boost their mental and physical health while building support systems and relationships. It also helps reduce social isolation and allows people to thrive and flourish together.
The YMCA of Hamilton, Burlington, and Brantford recently shared their findings on the value of social connection to mental health and well-being. People are happier and healthier when they connect through shared interests, hobbies, classes, and community activities. Whether attending a wellness program or spending time in welcoming spaces, they feel more supported and experience less isolation. It's a reminder that creating opportunities that bring people together to learn, share new skills and ideas, and connect can make a meaningful difference.
Strengthening Community Through Social Connections
This summer, BPL launched a pilot project to create welcoming ‘connection’ spaces inside our branches where people can join in fun, self-directed activities and interactive displays.
This project was made possible through the generous support of Burlington Community Foundation, whose grant enabled the Library to introduce engaging drop-in activities at New Appleby, Central, and Tansley Woods branches.
From zine-making tables to giant colouring pages, jigsaw puzzles to interactive whiteboards, these drop-in activities invited people of all ages to get creative and connect with others. And did they? You bet!
Here are a few of the connection successes made so far this summer:
- Weekly whiteboard prompts have generated over 1,500 responses to questions like “How do you say hello?” and “What does your name mean?”
- Giant colouring pages printed in Central's MakerSpace have been coloured collaboratively nine times at Tansley Woods and New Appleby.
- More than 100 comment cards from customers with feedback overwhelmingly supportive and full of ideas for future activities.
Ways to Find Community at BPL
Alongside the interactive activities introduced through our social connections project, BPL also offers many free programs that help people connect with others who share their interests, from reading and wellness to creativity and community partnerships.
Reading & Discussion
BPL Book Clubs and the Reading Challenge for adults are about more than great books—they're about great company. They are a wonderful way to meet fellow book lovers, discover new titles, swap recommendations, and share the joy of reading.
Creative & Social Activities
Knit ’n’ Natter and Board Game Drop-in for kids bring people together to relax, unwind, and build new friendships. Creators can also join the H.B.O. Maker Meetup to share ideas, find inspiration, and showcase creative projects.
New! Social Connections Meet‑Up is launching this fall, with drop‑in activities such as doodling, chatting about current events, and playing chess. Each session will offer a relaxed, welcoming space for community members to connect through creativity, conversation, or play. Watch our website and August program newsletter for more details, including meet-up dates, times, and locations.
Health & Wellness
Led by local instructors and community partners, wellness programs such as Chair Yoga, Sit To Be Fit, and Just Walk offer a welcoming, supportive way to stay active while spending time with others.
Community Connections
Partnerships with community organizations such as Grandmother’s Voice and pflag Halton help strengthen inclusion and belonging at BPL. Through the community circles offered this past spring and the Queer Peers drop-in, these groups create inclusive spaces for community members to share experiences and perspectives.
Family Learning & Fun
Programs like PA Day Fun! and Family STEAM Time encourage curiosity, creativity, and shared experiences for children and caregivers through hands-on activities, games, and challenges.
Community Starts Here
Burlington Public Library offers a wide range of programs, activities, and opportunities that invite people of all ages to learn, explore, and connect. Whether you’re looking to meet new people, try a hobby, stay active, or discover a shared interest, the library is a welcoming place to begin.
Visit our website to explore upcoming programs and find your community at the library.
