For writers and lovers of good books, the Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL) offers a wide range of interesting reads for seniors in numerous genres, from history to fiction, cooking to non-fiction and everything in-between. There is also programming for seniors that may be of interest.
The library itself features a beautiful rotunda and imposing brick façade built in 1963, this historical property is the perfect location to spend an afternoon. With over 100,000 books and other materials, the MJPL is sure to have something for everyone.
The library’s most popular senior-forward programming includes Tech Time classes and the Outreach Service.
As one of the most popular library services, Tech Time is an adult learning course that focuses on new technology. James, an employee at the library, will instruct you on the use of a mobile phone, online search engine, or other devices such as tablets or iPads.
These courses are meant to be on a one-on-one basis, but due to high demand, they are organized in a classroom setting. To keep the same direct approach to learning, classes are kept under 10 adult students at a time.
As demand for Tech Time is high, patrons are asked to book ahead.
If you’re unable to visit the library in person, the MJPL offers a program with you in mind. Their Outreach Service will deliver books and any other materials — from audiobooks to DVDs to large-print books — right to your door. Delivery and pickup services are offered twice a week, and the borrowing period is extended for patrons using the service.
For seniors who love needlework, knitting, sewing, crocheting, or embroidery, the library’s Needlework Night is a great opportunity for a monthly outing. Meeting take place once a month at the library, Needlework Night focuses more on socializing and mingling rather than guided instruction. This is a great opportunity to show off your needlework skills, learn a few new tricks, and even teach some of your tips and knowledge.
The Needlework Night is hosted on every fourth Tuesday of each month, but it’s best to call the library and confirm the next meeting date.
Do you remember the good old days? With the library’s archives program, you can peer back in time and find newspaper articles, stories, magazines, and photos from Moose Jaw’s past. This is an excellent program for scrapbooking, doing family research, and even just recalling fond memories.
The archives department is one of the busiest at the library, so it is best to call ahead and book an appointment.
In addition to the archive service, there’s also an ancestry database provided free of charge. Accessing Ancestry.com can be quite expensive, but with the Ancestry Library Edition — which uses the same site but is on a library account — you can stop by and do your research freely.
If you do not consider yourself computer savvy, the library has staff members available to guide you through the process and answer any questions.
The free ancestry database service is only available for patrons who are physically present at the library, and research cannot be done remotely. You are invited to bring your own laptop if you wish, and the program can be accessed on their Wi-Fi service.
Every second weekend of each month, the Moose Jaw Chess Club runs their chess night at the library. These events are open to all ages, and everybody is welcome to attend. If chess is your game, this is the place to be. On some nights their event has seen around 20-25 people in attendance, so this can be a great opportunity to meet other chess players in the community.
The MJPL also hosts adult classes covering a variety of other topics, but the schedule changes frequently due to instructor availability and public interest. Your best bet is to call the library and inquire about upcoming courses.
The library is open to program suggestions and any feedback you have is always appreciated.
The Moose Jaw Public Library is located at 461 Langdon Crescent and is open five days a week: Monday through Thursday from 9:30am – 9:00pm; Friday and Saturday from 9:30am – 6:00pm; and, on Sunday from 1:00pm – 5:00pm.
For additional information on library programs, ask for Naiomi Setter, who is the Social Media and Public Service Clerk at the MJPL.
The library can be reached through their website at MooseJawLibrary.ca or by calling 306-692-2787.
