Dear Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library community: this will be my last column for the library.
It’s time for me to embark on my next adventure and say goodbye.
Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of sharing the stories of the library, from captivating display case features to the introduction of cutting-edge digital resources and the celebration of exciting events.
This library has been a sanctuary since I moved here in 2012. The familiar glass doors, the labyrinth of stacks, and the boundless worlds within have provided solace and inspiration.
It’s been eye-opening to witness the intricate workings of a library and understand its significance to a diverse community like Bradford. Libraries, especially in growing communities, play a vital role in connecting people for various purposes, and the BWG library is no exception.
One of the most fascinating parts of our library is the new Creative Lab, allowing patrons to come in to learn and play with advanced technologies and programs.
The addition of the Tinker Lab, with its exploration of science and technology for kids through robots and snap circuits, is a testament to our commitment to fostering curiosity and creativity.
We also have our vinyl-cutting machines, where you can make anything and everything from signs to labels to party decor, as well as a digitization station, where you can transfer your old media into digital files. The sky’s the limit and we are so lucky to have this space to learn and explore.
There is something about being in a library that is just so comforting. It has always been an escape for me and will continue to be a sanctuary as I move on to my next chapter.
I know the BWG library means a lot to the entire community, too. It is not just a repository of books, but a space to make connections, learn new things, get lost in stories, and find yourself. It truly is the heartbeat of the community.
Thank you for being a part of this journey, and I look forward to the endless stories and adventures that await as the library continues to grow and advance.
Happy reading, all the best, and remember, “When in doubt, go to the library.” — J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Natasha Philpott was the marketing and communications coordinator at the Bradford West Gwillimbury Public Library.
