Sir Elton John - In Grande Prairie

Now how's THIS for entertainment at the Crystal Centre?

CRYSTAL CENTRE

Thursday, April 26^th

GRANDE PRAIRIE, AB – Elton John will perform solo at Crystal Centre on Thursday, April 26^th at 8PM performing his “Greatest Hits Live” concert, featuring number one chart hits and classic album tracks from throughout his incredible five-decade career. This will be Elton’s first ever appearance in Grande Prairie.

The public on-sale will begin Friday, February 10^th at 10 AM.

One of the most successful live acts on the road today, Elton puts on the kind of concert you will never forget: the entire audience standing, dancing and singing along with much-loved classic songs such as “Your Song”, “Rocket Man”, “Bennie and the Jets”, “Philadelphia Freedom”, “Crocodile Rock”, “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me”, and many more.

"It's a thrill to be able to welcome a star of Sir Elton John's stature to Grande Prairie. His legendary performances have entertained millions worldwide and seeing him live at the Crystal Centre is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity," said Grande Prairie Mayor, Bill Given.

The monumental career of international singer/songwriter and performer Elton John spans five decades. He is one of the top-selling solo artists of all time, with 35 gold and 25 platinum albums, 29 consecutive Top 40 hits, and he has sold more than 250 million records worldwide. John holds the record for the biggest selling single of all time, “Candle in the Wind ’97,” which sold over 33 million copies. Since his career began in 1969 he has played over 3,000 concerts worldwide.

TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10th, 10AM

                                                                                           

Tickets are $91.50, $151.50 and will be available online at crystalcentre.com, at the Crystal Centre box office or charge-by-phone at (780) 538-0387.

A service charge is added to each ticket. There is an 8 ticket limit per customer. 

Library Update - August 23rd, 2010

Automated Pick-Up Notification
If you currently receive a telephone call when your requested material is ready for pick-up you will now notice a difference as we have implemented our new automated telephone notification system! This new system will call you with a recorded message when your request has been processed and is ready for pick-up.

Staff at the Grande Prairie Public Library receive over 5000 items from other libraries each month for our patrons.

By switching to an automated service, we will be able to more quickly notify you that your item is available. Rather than wait to have a staff member call, your call will be generated as soon as the item is received at the Library.

For those that prefer, the option of receiving notifications by e-mail is still available.

Building Stories
Grande Prairie Public Library will be hosting the Prairie Art Gallery’s collection Building Stories for the entire month of September. This collection features Alberta artists’ works including local artists such as Euphemia McNaught and Peter von Tiesenhausen. The works will be displayed all over the Library as part of the Artwalk during Arts Days. Those who view the collection during the weekend of September 17-19 will be eligible to enter the Arts Days grand prize draw. Stop in and have a look!


Celebrate Alberta Arts Days
Prairie Tales 12 – Made in Alberta Movie Shorts
The Grande Prairie Public Library and the Alberta Foundation for the Arts are pleased to present Prairie Tales 12. Each year, Prairie Tales compiles a feature-length program of some of the best short films and videos made in Alberta during the last eighteen months.

Prairie Tales 12 features fourteen short works in all genres. Running time is 74 minutes.
Eric Becker, producer of Water Under the Bridges, one of the featured films, will introduce the Sunday screening.

Join us after the film as Eric shares his journey as a film maker in Alberta and the making of Water Under the Bridges.

Date: Friday, September 17
Time: 10:00 am and 3:00 pm

Date: Saturday, September 18
Time: 10:00 am

Date: Sunday, September 19
Time: 1:00 pm

Location: Rotary Community Room

Montrose Cultural Centre Recognized with Award

The architects of the Montrose Cultural Centre have been recognized with an award for their design of the building.

From Canadian Architect:

"Toronto-based Teeple Architects (in association with Kasian Architecture) received the 2010 Prairie Design Award of Excellence for the Montrose Cultural Centre in Grande Prairie, Alberta in the Recent Work category. The award celebrates “new standards in creativity and skill” and is presented every two years by the Alberta Association of Architects (AAA), the Saskatchewan Association of Architects (SAA) and the Manitoba Association of Architects (MAA). The Awards were presented at the kick-off to the RAIC/SAA Festival of Architecture in Saskatoon at the end of June."

Read the full article HERE.

Of course the real point of the building is how it's used and what it means to the community. The increased number of people getting library memberships, making visits the gallery and enjoying the space show the true value of the building - but, it's also nice to know that the great things we have here in GP are also recognized outside of our city.

Library Update - May 3rd, 2010

As we move through spring there's lots going on at the Library - from author visits to classes on personal safety and a visit from The COW there's a lot to check out! It's all below in the latest Library Update courtesy Library Director, Laurie Harrison:

We’re pleased to announce that The Grande Prairie Public Library is now designated as a Safe Harbour location. What does this mean? As a Safe Harbour location, we demonstrate equitable treatment and respect for all cultures, religions, socioeconomic backgrounds, ages, abilities, genders and sexual orientations. For more information on Safe Harbour, please visit www.safeharbour.ca

Things are rolling along well at the library. With more staff resources assigned to programming, we are pleased to offer more and varied programs for the public. Some in May include:

Personal Safety
Constable Ellen Archibald will assist you in learning how to be safe and secure at home and away from home with this two-hour Personal Safety course. Bring your questions and go away feeling more able to handle personal safety issues in your life.
Thursday, May 13, 6:00 pm, Rotary Community Room

Let’s Discuss Family Violence
We are happy to be able to welcome you to this most informative and preventative discussion with Courtney Jones from Odyssey House. Topics include: types of abuse, the cycle of violence, warning signs, what you can do to help a friend or family member who is experiencing family abuse or violence. Wednesday, May 19, 6:30 pm, Rotary Community Room

Making Your Will & Understanding Estates
Do I need to have a will and can I write a will without a lawyer? Do I have an estate? What about divorce, marriage, children and other dependents? Does the Adult Interdependent Relationship Act have anything to do with me? Can I leave my wishes for my health care should I happen to be unable to make those decisions when the time comes? If I leave my wishes for health care, are they binding? Answers to these questions and many more will be provided by Sherry B. Heikel. Sherry is from Grande Prairie and has practiced law here for many years. Come and be informed. Date: Wednesday, May 12, 7:00 pm, Rotary Community Room

Other programs include:
Internet Basics for Job Seekers
Grande Knitters Club
Grande Readers Book Club
Songwriter’s Circle
Foreign Movie Night
Cygnet Writers
Computers for Seniors

And always lots for children:

COW BUS (parented)
Visit the COW (Classroom on Wheels) bus at the Library and learn with fun activities. For families with children age 6 and under. Drop-in. While at the COW bus, be sure to pick up your FREE ticket to special cow themed programs at the Library on Tuesday afternoon and evening!

Date: Tuesday, May 4
Time: 1:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Location: Grande Prairie School District parking
lot in front of the Montrose Cultural Centre

Made with Love (unparented)
Make a beautiful handcrafted gift for your mother, grandmother, aunt or another special person! Master Sculptor Chris Jammer will teach you how to sculpt. Registration limited to 12 crafty kids ages 8-12. If you register and cannot attend please telephone 780-357-7454 so another patron may attend.

Date: Saturday, May 8
Time: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Linda Smith Story Room

Author Visit
Presented by Encana
Visit with author Cheryl Schenk, one of the imaginations behind The Stibil Forest Adventures: Little Synni’s Moonlight Mischief. Registration required. Register online at www.gppl.ab.ca

Dates: Tuesday, June 1 &
Wednesday, June 2
Times: 10:30 am (for preschoolers & early elementary)
1:30 pm (for homeschoolers)
4:00 pm (for families)
Location: Linda Smith Story Room

Bertie the Beaver Visits the Library
During Alberta Forestry Week Bertie the Beaver will be visiting lots of places including the library on May 14. Visit with Bertie and learn about forestry safety. For forest explorers of any age. Families welcome, Registration required, Maximum: 35 naturalists

Date: Friday, May 14
Time: 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Location: Linda Smith Story Room

Author Visit
GPPL is pleased to welcome Alberta author Shirlee Smith Matheson. Please join us as Shirlee shares her new book, Jailbird Kid. Check out her website atwww.ssmatheson.ca For students 12 and up. Registration required.

Date: Thursday June 3
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 am
Location: Linda Smith Story Room

Arctic Winter Games - Dene Sports, Hand Games

Check out this great video from CBC's Dan Robson on the Dene Hand Games down at ATCO place:



Check out Dan's full post on his AWG 2010 blog for CBC HERE.

In the mean time - get your butt down to ATCO Place in Muskoseepi Park and check out some of the unique sports of the Arctic Winter Games!

If you're looking for sport times and locations go HERE. There's a handy menu that allows you to sort the events by date, venue or sport. If you're a basketball fan you can find out when all the games are. If you've got a free day you can select just the date and see all events for that day.

Library Update - March 8th, 2010

Support the Friends of The Library Silent Auction

The Grande Prairie Public Library Friends Society is hosting their 9th Annual Silent Auction in the Library from March 1 - 21, 2010.

The auction showcases local talent from the community, with funds raised going towards a shelving unit that will hold the Library’s ongoing in-house book sale.

Items included in this year’s auction are artwork from Tannis Trydal, Kim Dettling, Marian Jacoba Shilka, Janice Lutsenko and Joan Taylor. There are photo cards, jewellery, crafts, and giftware, as well as an office chair provided by Corporate Express and a marble sculpture donated by the Downtown Association.

To see a full list of items, with pictures, check out the Grande Prairie Public Library Friends Society Facebook page. For more information please contact Judy at (780) 357-7478.

Just a few of the many Programs & Events going on at the library

Celebrate Food from Field to Table
March is Nutrition Month! Come and discuss how Canadians can celebrate food – right from where it is grown and harvested to a healthy and delicious meal on your table. Learn how to plan, purchase, prepare and plant healthy foods for you and your family.

Date: Thursday, March 11
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Rotary Community Room


Get Growing
Monday, March 15 at 6:30 pm – Vegetable Gardening
First, learn the benefits of growing your own vegetables with Nutritionist Danielle Wohlgemuth. Then, Lorna McIlroy will present how to get the most and best out of your vegetable garden, large or small.
Monday, March 29 at 6:30 pm – Flower and Container Gardening
Do you live in an apartment or condo? Don’t have time for a large garden but you love flowers or you want to try container gardening? This session will give you a great start to a fragrant and fabulous yard, large or small.

Programs for the Family

Easter Colouring Contest
Children up to and including age 8 are welcome to enter the Grande Prairie Public Library’s Easter colouring contest. Pick up an entry form at the Children’s Library Information Desk or print one from our website at www.gppl.ab.ca on the Children’s Page under Contests. The grand prize is a Library book bag full of books and toys.

Aluk Visits the Library!
Come and meet Aluk the official mascot of the 2010
Arctic Winter Games. Join Aluk and library staff for lots of fun activities in the Preschool Play Zone. A drop in program for sports enthusiasts of all ages.

Date: Tuesday, March 9
Time: 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Location: Preschool Play Zone

2010 Arctic Winter Games - Opening Night

Just a quick post this morning....

Although the volunteers & staff have been working behind the scenes for more than three years, the 2010 Arctic Winter Games officially got under way last night with the opening ceremonies. It's going to be a week full of fun, sport, art and, most importantly getting to know new people!

Through the week I'll try to post games info when I can but they'll probably be short - it's going to be a busy time and there's only going to be so much time I can spend at the computer.

Today's quick notes:

- Last night's opening ceremonies were excellent! The crowd in attendance was treated to a really diverse line-up of acts that showcased the broad spectrum of cultures represented in the north - and the sight of over 2000 athletes and 260 officials parading in was especially moving.

Athletes Seated For Opening Ceremonies

- At this morning's Chef De Mission meeting (at 7am!) the Yamal representative had high praise for the ceremonies. They were so happy to hear their national anthem in their native language and surprised to hear a well known local song for their entrance music that it "brought tears" to their eyes!

- There was a hardy crowd gathered at ATCO Place in Muskoseepi Park to greet the Games torch as it came in to light the cauldron. ATCO were great hosts and kept everyone entertained even through the opening ceremonies were a little over time and delayed the torch's arrival.

Lighting The Cauldron At ATCO Place

Keep up to date with the latest 2010 Arctic Winter Games news via the links below...
General Info for the week:

Arctic Winter Games Sport Schedules can be found HERE

Arctic Winter Games Results Information can be found HERE

Library Update - November 30th, 2009

I think it's been a while since I've posted an update from Laurie Harrison at the Grande Prairie Public Library but just in time for tonight's council meeting (see the agenda here) here's news from your library!

"Overdrive
Can't make it in to the library but you need a good read? Your Library now offers Overdrive downloadable audiobooks and eBooks free to Library members.

The digital version of a print book (eBook) can be read on your computer, laptop or PDA. Audiobooks can be downloaded to an MP3 player or other portable device.

Quickly and easily place holds and download materials. Once your requested materials download, you have the materials for three weeks. After that time, the materials are automatically returned. You never have to worry about late fees.

Santa’s Workshop
Visit the Children’s Library Story Room for an evening of fun crafts, hot chocolate, and treats. Families with children three and older are welcome. Lug a mug. Registration required.

Date: Wednesday, December 9
Time: 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Location: Linda Smith Story Room

The Giving Tree
The Giving Tree in the Children’s Library will be accepting stocking stuffer donations from November 25 to December 18. New items such as toiletries: soaps and lotions, toothbrushes, hair brushes, manicure sets; slippers, socks, pajamas and housecoats for moms and teens gratefully accepted. Donations will go to Odyssey House."

In addition to Laurie's update, during my last visit to the library that signage is being installed in the Montrose Cultural Centre. In addition to helping you find where you're going the sleek metal lettering looks pretty sharp and is a nice final touch to the building.

Library Family Event & Fundraiser Featuring Little Bear.

The library’s annual fundraiser is coming up soon! This live action stage performance featuring the popular character Little Bear will delight and entertain children and parents alike. With the large number of families with young children in Grande Prairie, the library has found that family oriented events like this are really appreciated.



Little Bear Winter Tales

Monday, November 16, 2009
Douglas J. Cardinal Centre for the Performing Arts
Shows at 3:30 pm & 6:30 pm
Tickets: $24 (adult) & $18 (children)
Tickets available at the Crystal Centre Box Office

Library Grand Opening - Tomorrow

The Grande Prairie Public Library is holding it's grand opening tomorrow and there is a great line up of free family activities. You might remember that back in June we hosted a grand opening in conjunction with the Luitenant Governor's Arts Awards - that was actually for the whole Montrose Cultural Centre.

The event this weekend is specifically library focused and it will be a lot of fun with books, music and entertainment for everyone. The full list of the day's events is below:

Library Grande Opening – Saturday, August 22, 2009

Benjamin Alstad (Cello – in Children’s parent area) 10:00 AM

Celebration Story Time (Linda Smith Story Room) 10:30 AM

Jeannie, Katherine & Nicole Pernal (Piano, Violin & Cello – at piano) 11:00 AM

Face Painting with Shannon Fennell (Sky Story Room) 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Lucy’s Clown Caboose Magic Show (Linda Smith Story Room) 11:00 AM

Story Time with Alderman Bill Given (Preschool Play Zone) 11:30 AM

Susan Picard, Angie Maksymetz, Christine Ayling (Vocal Group – in non‐fiction) 11:30 PM

Celebration Story Time (Linda Smith Story Room) 12:30 PM

Sharon Schellenberg (Piano) 12:30 PM

Fred Penner (Teresa Sargent Hall) 1:00 PM

Library Opening Ceremonies (Teresa Sargent Hall) 3:00 PM

Lucy’s Clown Caboose Magic Show (Linda Smith Story Room) 4:00 PM

Jeannie, Katherine & Nicole Pernal (Piano, Violin & Cello – at Piano) 4:30 PM

Update - A picture of my reading, courtesy Wayne Ayling:

Library Update - July 13th, 2009

It's been a while since the last Library Update. Of course Laurie and her team at the Library were just a little busy over the past month or two. But, I guess that with moving buildings, working out the kinks in the new space, learning where the bathrooms where and hosting a major provincial event with the Lieutenant Governor's Arts Awards we can give them a break. ; ) Here's the report Laurie passed on for me to provide to council tonight:

A special thank you to Michelle Gairdner and the others who worked so hard preparing and staging such a wonderful grand opening of the Montrose Cultural Centre.

Thank you to the City of Grande Prairie for providing this new library for the community.

The public response has been wonderful. The tutoring room is being booked, memberships are up 230%, and the public has found their favourite corners to curl up with a book by the window or study in a quiet area with a cup of coffee or use the public computers. Teens love their new area for studying and visiting with friends. The parents and young children love moving the cushions and bean bag chairs into just the right position for lounging and sharing a good book.

Celebrate with us!
Join us for the Grand Opening of the Grande Prairie Public Library! The festivities will begin on Saturday, August 22 at 10:00 am. There will be activities for the whole family including performers and special story times as well as coffee, juice and snacks.
Opening ceremonies will be at 3:00 pm in the Teresa Sargent Hall.
There will be giveways for the first 500 visitors. Enter to win fantastic prizes including a Wii!

Discover Great Summer Reads at the Library
Why should the kids have all the fun? Discover the latest summer reads at your Library and win prizes. Keep track of the books you read or listen to between July 2 and August 31. Read 3 books or listen to 3 books (tape, CD or downloadable eAudiobook) and be eligible for weekly prizes. After reading or listening to six books, complete your reading log and enter your name for the Booklover's basket to be drawn in September.

Reading logs are available at Customer Services or online.

We are now able to offer Group Computer Training for the public in our new Training Lab.
Group Computer Training
June 22- August 31
Microsoft Word - Tuesday and Friday from 10:00 am to11:00 am
How to use E-Bay - Fridays from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm)
How to use the Library’s Online Tools - Learn a new research tool every Thursday from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
How to use Facebook - Tuesdays from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Registration is required. Maximum of 10 participants.

Summer Activities for Children at the Library
Agent 009 – Summer Reading Club
Join the TD Summer Reading Club this summer! Plan to visit the Library this summer for detective themed events including our new online summer reading club at www.gppl.ab.ca.

Spy School
Ages 7 to 12
Tuesdays: July 7, 14, 21, 28, Aug. 4, 11, 18 from 2:00 - 3:00 pm

July 7: Make a thumb writer, notebook and spy kit holder
July 14: Codes and ciphers
July 21: Camouflage and disguise
July 28: Finding evidence (finger prints, teeth prints, etc.)
Aug 4: Observation and memory skills
Aug 11: Creating a crime (group story writing)
Aug 18: Spy gadgets

Special Missions
Ages 7 to 12
Thursday July 9, 16, 23, 30, Aug. 6, 13, 20 from 2:00 - 3:00 pm
Presented by members of the community.

Children’s Summer Programs

Wednesdays - July 8 to August 19
10:30 am - 11:00 am - Musical Tots: stories rhymes and music for 2 and under.
1:30 pm - 2:15 pm - Melody Magic: stories, songs and musical activities for 4’s and 5’s
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm - Book Detectives: book talk and share favourite reads
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm - Family Night: Bingo, Booknik (book sharing and snacks), scavenger hunt & games.

Wednesdays - July 9 to August 20
10:30 am - 11:15 am - Storytime: stories, finger plays and films for 3 to 5 year-olds.

Is the Book Better Than the Movie?
Enjoy popcorn, refreshments and a movie. Which was better? The book or the movie? Discuss and defend your choice!
Thursday, July 23 @ 6:30 pm - The Three Musketeers based on the book by Alexandre Dumas.
Thursday, August 20 @ 6:30 pm - Carrie based on the book by Stephen King.

Computer & Internet Training @ the Library
Sign up for a free, one-hour session on any of the following:
• Using the Library Catalogue
• Computer Basics
• Learning to Email
• Surfing the Internet for Beginners
• Introduction to Microsoft Word

Visit the Information Desk to sign up for your one-on-one instruction with Library staff. Call (780) 357-7455.

Iskoteo Arts Festival - Busy Week In GP!

Grande Prairie has an amazing week ahead of it! Seriously, tell me the list of events isn't impressive - I dare you!

In all seriousness this is going to be a great week that features the diversity of our community and hopefully will open some people's eyes to the thriving arts and cultural scene in Grande Prairie. The Iskoteo Arts Festival is a combination of new and annual events coordinated to coincide with the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards. Most of the events are free and those that do have a fee attached are supporting good causes. If you're not from GP, there's still time for you to plan a visit!

Tuesday, June 16th
• 4:00pm-8:00pm Muskoseepi Park
Municipal Government Day Check out my Photo Tour of last year's event (free)

• 7:00pm GPRC Glass Gallery
Art of the Peace Juried Art Show Opening Reception(free)

• 7:00pmGPRC Glass Gallery
Art Walk Launch(free)

Wednesday, June 17th
• 4:00pm-5:30pm Public Library
The Local Connections @ Your Library (free)

• 4:30pm-6:30pm Prairie Art Gallery
Bibi Clement "East Meets West" Exhibit Opens (free)

• 7:00pm-10:00pm Montrose Cultural Centre
Chamber of Culture Mixer (free)

Thursday, June 18th
• 1:30pm-2:30pm Public Library
Iskoteo Puppet Play & Story Time for Families (free)

• 3:00pm-5:00pm Centre for Creative Arts
Poetry in French Workshop($30)

• 3:00pm-5:00pm Centre for Creative Arts
Publishing & Publicity Panel($30)

• 7:00pm-9:00pm Public Library
Clem & Muriel Collins Writing Contest Awards Night(free)

Friday, June 19th
• 11:30pm-1:30pm, Montrose Cultural Centre
Frontenac House - Quartet 2009 Book Launch (free)

• 1:30pm Prairie Art Gallery
Best Small Gallery in the World Research Project (free)

• 3:00pm GPRC Performing Arts Centre Entrance
Guided Art Walk (free)

• 6:00pm South Bear Creek Ball Diamonds
Peace Starts At Home Concert for Sunrise House Youth Emergency Shelter ($5)

8:00pm GPRC Performing Arts Centre
Songs at Solstice - Featuring; Danyluk & Card, Trevor Horswill, Amalea Lutsenko, Celeigh Cardinal and Renee Golemba ($12 - $17)

Saturday, June 20th
10:00am-4:00pm Farmer's Market
Summer Solstice Super Market (free)

10:00am-12:00pm Centre for Creative Arts
Memoir: Writing Your Life Workshop with Bob Stallworthy ($30)

1:00pm-3:00pm Rabbit Hole Bookstore
Reading by Sid Marty, author of "The Black Grizzly of Whiskey Creek" (free)

1:30pm-3:30pm GP Friendship Centre
Youth Writing Workshop with Anna Marie Sewell ($10 donation suggested)

5:00pm GPRC Performing Arts Centre
Lieutenant Governor of Alberta Arts Awards Gala (Sold Out)

Sunday, June 21st
10:00am-1:00pm Centre for Creative Arts
Narrative Non-Fiction Workshop with Sid Marty (free)

1:00pm-8:00pm Muskoseepi Park
National Aboriginal Day Celebrations (free)

Week Long Events
• Art Board Show & Auction, Centre for Creative Arts
• Art Show & Sale, Tito's Bistro & Bar
• GP Guild of Artists "Expressions of Light" Art Show & Sale, Unique Gallery

Library Update - April 6th, 2009

Hmmmm, I've just noticed that my blog has been getting pretty thin lately. In fact one could be forgiven if they mistook this for the Grande Prairie Public Library blog - it seems like most of my posts have been the library updates from Laurie. Well, I'll have to start posting about a wider variety stuff... tomorrow.

For now, here's the latest update from the GPPL!

"21st Annual Clem and Muriel Collins Writing Contest: WINNING AND LOSING
103 entries were received for the writing contest. The awards ceremony will be held June 18 during the week of Iskoteo Arts Festival activities

Spring Break in the Library
The following programs are for school aged children and are unparented (although parents should remain in library). Programs will be held in the Story Room. Registration required. Please phone 532-3580 ext 226.

Spring Crafts
Tuesday, April 14 from 1:30 - 2:30
Ages 7-12
Enjoy some stories and make a fantastic pop-up card for someone special.

Spring into Music
Wednesday, April 15 from 1:30 - 2:30
Ages 5-7
Take part in an hour of musical activities and stories.

Just for Laughs
School is out so come to the library for some fun and funny activities.
Thursday, April 16 from 1:30 - 2:30
Ages 7-12

April is Poetry Month
Visit the Children’s Library to view our extensive poetry collection on display

Earth Day
Earth Day is Wednesday April 22. Reduce Reuse Recycle. Earth friendly books full of great ideas will be on display for you to borrow.

Video Game Tournament
Join us for a Wii tournament. Saturdays, April 11 & 25 from 2:00 - 4:00 pm in the Story Room.
For ages 12-18. Call 780-532-3580 ext 226 for more information.

The Featured Online Research Tool for April is: Canadian Points of View Reference Centre
Canadian Points of View Reference Centre covers 100 topics presenting an overview, a point, a counterpoint, and a Critical Thinking Guide for each topic. It is a tool designed to provide students with a series of essays that present multiple sides of a current issue. Topics covered include: environment, health, human rights, crime, race, technology, substance abuse, and many more. Canadian Points of View Reference Centre provides the basis from which students can realize and develop persuasive arguments and essays, better understand controversial issues and develop analytical thinking skills.

These online research tools and many more are available through the Library’s website at www.gppl.ab.ca. Have your membership card handy!


Laurie Harrison
Library Director
Grande Prairie Public Library"

Are You An Artist Looking For Space?

Are you a Grande Prairie area artist that needs a little studio space? If so this could be just the ticket! I just had this note forwarded to me facebook:

"Are you looking for a space to develope and expand your art?

The Centre for Creative Arts has one studio vacancy. This aprox 100 square foot studio is suitable for most art mediums and could be shared between two artists.

The space has lots of windows and is clean, quiet and bright. Lease is month by month, rent is $200 per month and tennants have 24/7 access to the Centre. Call Candace or Jackie at the Centre 780-814-6080 for more info."

Find out more about GP Centre for Creative Arts here.

Library Update - March 23rd, 2009

I last week was at a tender opening where we received bids from companies looking to supply the furniture for the new Library at the Montrose Cultural Centre. This is just another sign that it's getting close to move time. Laurie Harrison provided the library board with a tentative timeline for the move after our last meeting:

May 19-22... New shelving delivery and installation

May 21-22... Office furniture (new) delivery and installation

May 25-29... Highland Moving onsite (for moving books and old shelving, etc.)

May 27-29... Remainder of library furniture being purchased (tables, chairs, etc.) suppliers will be delivering and installing

June 1-3... 3M installing gates, Smart Chutes and selfcheck equipment, phones, computers, etc. being installed and checked for applications

June 3-10... Library staff becomes familiar with the building, test new procedures, do collection checks

June 11... Library opening

Until the big move the library is still very busy at their current location, as Laurie's latest report proves:

"The Grande Prairie Public Library 21st Annual
Clem and Muriel Collins Writing Contest: WINNING AND LOSING

TWO WEEKS LEFT TO GET YOUR ENTRY IN!!!

Writers come one, come all. Start thinking about entering one of Alberta’s best writing contests! There are five entry categories: Grades 1-3, Grades 4-6, Grades 7-9, Grades 10-12 and Adult all with great cash prizes. Pick up a brochure for specific guidelines at the Library or online at www.gppl.ab.ca. Contest closes Friday, April 3 at 6:00 pm.

Grande Prairie Public Library Friends Society Annual General Meeting
The Grande Prairie Public Library Friends Society will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, March 25 at 6:30 p.m. Are you creative and motivated and would like to make a difference? The Friends are a group that believes in the importance of the Library in the community and they need you! For more information, contact Judy Dickson at 567-2716.

These training essions are proving to be extremely popular with the public so we look forward to being able to offer group sessions in the new training lab in the new library!

Computer & Internet Training @ the Library
Sign up for a free, one-hour session on any of the following:

Using the Library Catalogue
Computer Basics
Learning to Email
Surfing the Internet for Beginners
Introduction to Microsoft Word

Visit the Information Desk to sign up for your one-on-one instruction with Library staff. Call 532-3580 ext 225.

PS: The Wii is proving to be a hit! We had 14 teens take part in the Super Smash Brothers Brawl on March 14. Now we're thinking we should have a tournament for adults and seniors, too!"

Library Update - March 9th, 2009

I'm back from vacation! It was a fantastic trip and I may take some time to write about it (or I might not). In the mean time I'm sure you've missed my council night updates from the Grande Prairie Public Library, so with out further ado here's the latest from the GPPL:

Video Game Tournament
Super Smash Brothers Brawl on the Wii
Saturday, March 14 and Saturday, March 28 from 2:00 - 4:00 pm in the Story Room.
For ages 12-18.

The Featured Online Research Tool for March is: Hobbies & Crafts Reference Centre
Are you looking to start a new hobby? Maybe you’re looking for crochet patterns or ideas for scrapbooking? The Hobbies & Crafts Reference Center provides full-text content for many popular hobbies, crafts and recreational activities. More than 500 magazines and books, as well as access to 333 videos and 144 hobby reports are included. Hobbies & Crafts Reference Centre offers detailed "how-to" instructions and creative ideas in the areas of arts & crafts; collecting; games & electronics; model building; home & leisure; needlework; outdoors & nature; and scrapbooking & papercrafts.

This online research tool and many more are available through the Library’s website at http://www.gppl.ab.ca. Have your membership card handy!

Grande Prairie Public Library Friends Society Annual General Meeting
The Grande Prairie Public Library Friends Society will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, March 25 at 6:30 p.m. Are you creative and motivated and would like to make a difference? The Friends are a group that believes in the importance of the Library in the community and they need you! For more information, contact Judy Dickson at 567-2716.

Computer & Internet Training @ the Library
Sign up for a free, one-hour session on any of the following:

• Using the Library Catalogue
• Computer Basics
• Learning to Email
• Surfing the Internet for Beginners
• Introduction to Microsoft Word

Visit the Information Desk to sign up for your one-on-one instruction with Library staff

Thanks for the update Laurie! With that I've resumed posting and will get back to a regular schedule again.

Cultural Centre Construction Tour

I just got back from a tour of the Montrose Cultural Centre. The building, as you know, will be home to the Grande Prairie Public Library and the Prairie Art Gallery. (Here are some of my previous posts on the subject)

City staff had arranged a time for council members to tour the building and unfortunately I would have missed it because I have a vacation coming up. Thankfully Terry our new community services director was nice enough to arrange a special "advance viewing" for me on short notice this afternoon.

The building is set to open this June when it hosts the 2009 Lieutenant Governor's Arts awards. Start making your plans to attend now!

Here are some shots that I captured while we were touring the site.

Walking up to the main entrance on the north side of the building. 

Off to the right of the main entrance is the coffee shop space (I can't wait to get a sandwich and a latte here on a summer afternoon!) 

Past the small coffee shop area is the central hall space which will be used for community events and functions. I think it can handle about 200 or 250 for seated dinner service type events. 

Back in the main library space looking through the building to the west (toward the old art gallery building.) 

From the same spot looking east this time. You might not recognize it but the little area in the centre of the picture will be a fireplace. Anyone want to cozy up by the fire with a good book on a cold winter evening? 

I have a few other pics but those will have to do for now ... I have to run to a 3pm Environment Committee meeting!

Library Update - January 12th, 2009

Hot on the heels of my first post of 2009, here's your first Library Update of 2009... courtesy of Laurie Harrison;

Giving Tree
Through December, 96 items were collected via the Children's Library Giving Tree and donated to the Odyssey House for Christmas stockings. Thank you to al how donated an item to make Christmas better for the kids at Odyssey House!

Family Literacy Day
Family Literacy Day (founded by ABC Canada) is Tuesday January 27. At 7:00 pm we will celebrate with "A Bunch of Munsch" by way of a special pyjama party. This year ABC Canada is encouraging Canadians to break the world record for the most children reading with an adult at one time. The date of the read-off is January 24 at 1:00pm in the Story Room.

Winter preschool programming will begin January 20th.

We thank the public for their patience as we have been migrating to a new computer system. It has meant some days of closure at the library as well as some limits in our functionality. We are back up and running -- just working out the inevitable "bugs and quirks" that happen with any new system. Benefits are a modern, user-friendly catalogue which will include personal reading lists and saved reading history; links to first chapters, excerpts and reviews; and a google-like interface.

Gallery Reconstruction (re)Considered Tonight at Council

At tonight's council meeting there is a motion to reconsider council's previous direction on the fate of the historic Prairie Art Gallery building.

About 1/4 of the building was lost when the roof collapsed in March 2007. Since then it's sat open and exposed to the elements while it's fate has been bounced around and the insurance issues have been sorted out. Late this summer council passed a motion directing staff to seek permission from Alberta Culture & Heritage to demolish the building and begin construction of a new building on the site.

At the time I was the lone dissenting vote - As I said previously I really believe the building is important given Grande Prairie's limited amount of historical resources. Apparently the ministry feels somewhat the same as their response to the City's request seemed to indicate between the lines that restoration was the way to go. The building expert the minister sent to inspect the site was pretty clear in his report that the building was still very salvageable.

I think the motion to move forward with restoration and reconstruction will pass easily tonight given the letter from the minister and out-pouring of support old high school building we've seen over the last few weeks.

The collapsed Prairie Art Gallery building (finally) gets a temporary roof to protect the structure while it's fate is decided.


Workers installing the roof on the old gallery building.


This picture shows the connection area where the new cultural centre is supposed to connect to the old art gallery building. The connection hasn't been built yet because of the uncertainty of what would happen to the old building.

Library Update - December 1st, 2008

An update on the action at the GPPL from Library Director Laurie Harrison:

The Giving Tree
The Giving Tree in the Children’s Library will be accepting stocking stuffer donations from December 1 to December 19. New items such as socks, toothbrushes, hats, mitts gratefully accepted. Donations will go to the Odyssey House.

Learn German with Auralog
Join us for weekly German lessons as you learn with Auralog, the language learning software now available through the Grande Prairie Public Library. Learn how to use the software and then practice at home and with the group. Registration is required. Maximum of eight participants. Materials fee: $5.00 This program will be 12 weeks. Beginning Thursday, January 15 at 7:30 pm in the Isabel Campbell Room. For more information and registration call Luba at 532-3580 ext. 259.

The Grande Prairie Public Library 21st Annual Clem and Muriel Collins Writing Contest: WINNING AND LOSING
Writers come one, come all. Start thinking about entering one of Alberta’s best writing contests! There are five entry categories: Grades 1-3, Grades 4-6, Grades 7-9, Grades 10-12 and Adult all with great cash prizes. Pick up a brochure for specific guidelines at the Library or online at www.gppl.ab.ca . The Children’s Library will begin accepting submissions Monday, January 5, 2009. Contest closes Friday, April 3 at 6:00 pm.

Wrap up your Library this Christmas!
Put your Library under the tree this year. Purchase a Library membership for that hard to buy for person on your Christmas list and give them unlimited movies, books and CDs all year long! Gift certificates are available at the Circulation Desk.
Families: $15.00
Adults: $7.50
Seniors: $5.00
Students grades 7 and up : $2.00
Children grades 1 to 6 : $1.00
Preschoolers :Free


The Featured Online Research Tool for December is: Credo Reference
Did you know that your Library offers extensive and credible reference sources to answer all your questions? From music to history, literature to business, your Library has an online research tool. Use of these online research tools is included with your Library membership.

This month’s featured tool is Credo Reference. Credo is a vast online reference library, providing access to the full text of hundreds of highly regarded and popular titles. Credo brings the facts alive with images, sound files, animations, videos and much more. Find speedy, simple answers and full in-depth articles. Credo Reference is constantly expanding and currently offers around 300 quality reference titles on every major subject.

You can access over three million cross-referenced, searchable, authoritative entries a growing world of information at the click of a mouse! Credo Reference contains dictionaries, bilingual dictionaries, thesauri, encyclopedias, quotations and atlases. Plus a wide range of subject-specific titles covering everything from the arts to accountancy, science to Shakespeare and law to literature.

To access the online research tools, visit www.gppl.ab.ca and click on Online Research Tools in the left hand menu. Have your Library card ready.