Library

Welcome

The Ajax Public Library actively provides links between our community's information and recreational needs and a spectrum of resources. We have a distinguished history, beginning in 1891, with the Mechanics Institute Library in Pickering Village. Currently, three branches provide community access to diverse collections, Internet computers, children’s programs and meeting space. This Web site provides a virtual branch allowing you to search the Library Catalogue and conduct research from the comfort of your home or office.

What's On

For a complete list of upcoming programs for adults and children including storytime, check out the What's On section of the Web site. When in the Library pick up a copy of Pages our September/October newsletter. It is your bimonthly guide to the program activity and recommended reads at Ajax Library Services. 

Wireless Access

The McLean Branch Library joins Ajax Library Services's Main Branch as a WiFi Hotspot.  Both libraries offer free wireless Internet access.  Anyone with a laptop or handheld device equipped with a wireless card can connect to the Internet through wireless access points on each floor of the Main Branch Library and within the McLean Branch.  Complete information about this service is available at all public service desks or in the Wireless Access Guide. 

Battle of the Books
If you enjoy reading and would like to match wits with some of the best readers in town or even across the Durham Region speak to your teacher librarian about a Battle fo the books team for your school!

Battle of the Books features teams from local schools at the 4/5/6 level and the 7 & 8 level. Team members read from Battle Lists and each year in April, the "Battle of the Books” teams from each school meet for the Semi-Battle round robin competition. The top three teams from each division go on to the Final Battle to compete for gold, silver and bronze medals. The gold medal winners are awarded a trophy for their school and go on to compete in the Regional Championship.

Teachers Please Note: The rules have changed slightly this year so please read them carefully before signing and registering. REGISTRATION: Booklists are now available. Final deadline for registration is Friday, January 16th 2009. To register please fax your signed registration form to Cindy Kimber at 905-428-3743.

Junior Book List Catalogue Link

Senior Book List Catalogue Link

Goals and Rules

Hilarious Hijinks TD Summer Reading Club Short Story Contest

The Library is pleased to announce the winners of the TD Summer Reading Club Hilarious Hijinks Short Story Contest:
JK-Grade 3
Lorraine Guerrero (Grade 3) for Mandarin
Grade 4-6
Tianna Gomes (Grade 5) for Silly Joan's First Day on the Job
Best of Contest
William Hunt (Grade 4) for Doggy Delight 

Wanted: Teens to Make a Difference!
Check out Three volunteer opportunities are available this fall:
TAC - Teen Advisory Council is looking for new members to contribute their expertise to improving library service to their peers.  TAC member responsibilities:
Regularly attending monthly meetings at the Main Branch.
Helping to develop specialized programs for teens.
Helping to promote the library in the community.
For more information contact: jeff.mcilveen@townofajax.com.

Ajax Reading Circle is looking for teens to share their love of reading with younger children Saturday mornings at the Main Branch. Responsibilities:
Meeting Saturday mornings  for one hour (Sept. - May).
Attending orientation Sept. 6.
Reading and encouraging a love of reading with your buddy .
For more information visit your local branch or contact Brenda Walters at 905-686-9276 (evenings). Ajax Reading Circle is supported by Frontier College.

Le Club Francais is looking for teens who can assist French Immersion students with their homework and conversation skills. Responsibilieites:
Speak, read,  and write French and English fluently.
Relate well to children and work well with children on a one-to-one basis.
Act as a role model for reading and studying.
Le Club Francais runs Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the Main branch beginning October 14.
For more information contact: cindy.kimber@townofajax.com.

Art Displays

You are invited to the opening of Waves Within: an exhibition and sale of original artworks by Ron Mendes on Thursday, September 4 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. in the Main Branch Rotary Room. The exhibition continues through September 30th.

Art Shows are open to the public during regular library hours when the Rotary Room is not in use.

Online Language Learning  

TELL ME MORE - Online Language learning solution available for Spanish, English (ESL), French, German, Italian, Dutch.  Language program that teaches the components required to learn and master a language; Reading, Writing Listening and Speaking.

Host Program

The Community Development Council Durham is launching a new Youth Host Program. The program will assist teens who are new to Canada to make friendships, Learn about Canadian culture and customs, enhance English skills and more. Teen volunteers are also required to assist at the program. For more information contact Uzma at 905-686-2661 or visit your local library branch for a brochure.

Citizenship Information
Anyone preparing for his or her citizenship exam will find the attached information sheet most useful. It contains both current government representatives and useful links to help you prepare.

Your Opinion Counts!

Please complete the Library’s web-based Customer Satisfaction Survey! Simply click on this icon to proceed.