Regina Public Library offers more than just books
Your local one-stop-(not-a)-shop to learn for fun (and for free)
by kate sveinbjornson, contributor
The Regina Public Library offers free and accessible events, such as craft cafés, movie nights, board games, and more for everyone to enjoy. Saving money is vital for university students, but so is having fun. Although, normally students can only do one or the other, and would prefer knowing about low-cost or free events around Regina. Well, look no further than your local public library! They have events that take place every week, often switching libraries each time, so anyone in Regina can enjoy them.
Libraries offer more than just books. You can check out movies, CDs, use computers, or have a quiet place to sit and work. There is no fee for a library card, and you can order one online at reginalibrary.ca, or get one in person. One way in which students can save money using a library is by taking out a book they need for class. Books can get expensive, so many students choose to borrow novels they need for classes from the local library. This way, you can read what you need, then return it so someone else can use it!
At stressful times during the semester, it is nice to join a fun, relaxing event. The library branches offer several games and artistic events which are available by drop-in. Mondays at 1 p.m. you’re invited to drop in and play mahjong, a fun and easy-to-learn game involving matching tiles. While there’s no instructor, other players are usually happy to teach you.
Or maybe you’re a skilled chess player who needs people to play against. You can play chess with others at your level at your local library branch. Sundays at 2 p.m., you can bring your own board game, or drop in and play with someone else. This event is perfect for socializing and having fun.
Are you a crafter who doesn’t want to craft alone? At 1 p.m. multiple days during the week, crafters of all kinds get together to chat and make their masterpieces. Any kind of craft is welcome to participate. The War Book Club and the Don’t Stop Reading Book Club are perfect if you want to discuss a book you’ve been reading or want a group to keep you on your course material readings. Both programs operate on a drop-in basis.
Trying to find jobs is also an important part of student life, and we can use all the help we can get. The library hosts several events which can help you with your job search or school work. On Friday afternoons, you can register for tutoring and practice to help improve your English skills. An instructor helps students with better reading, speaking, and comprehension skills which are important for success in studies and work.
On Mondays at 6:30 p.m., writers of all levels are encouraged to drop in and receive inspiration and mentorship from writer-in-residence Pam Bustin. If you need inspiration to finish an essay or other written work, or need help with editing, this program is for you. This program is offered in person and online. Pam also runs a writing program tailored for newcomers learning to write English. There are volunteers to help you create your resume and prepare you for interviews, as well as answer any career-related questions you may have.
If you are new to Canada and are preparing to get your citizenship, the citizenship preparation class is the perfect program for you, where you will be coached and assisted for your citizenship exam. For your health and wellness needs, Thrive Walk-In Counselling offers a free and accessible walk-in mental health clinic. On Sundays at 3 p.m., you can try a beginner yoga class.
While you learn a lot in university, it can be refreshing to learn about something new and to have that be something you don’t have to pay to learn. The programs mentioned are perfect for people who want to learn, socialize, and have fun! To further the list, in armchair gardening you can learn about gardening, take a virtual tour with Sarah Williams, and learn about the land. This is perfect for anyone who wants to learn about gardening and the history of the land.
There are also several kinds of beading events held by Indigenous artists, happening during different times of the month. Learning a language can also be rewarding and is also a good way to stimulate your brain. Once a week, you can attend classes for beginner students learning Nakota.
To learn more about the programs offered at the Regina Public Library, visit reginalibrary.ca for a full list of programs, dates, and times, or head to a branch near you to talk with a librarian.
