Holiday Closure: All branches of the Okanagan Regional Library will be closed from Monday, December 23 through Wednesday, January 1, for the holidays. See you when the library system re-opens on Thursday, January 2!
All ORL Branches are closed on statutory holidays.
There are six book drop bins located on the west side of the building. They are locked only during extended library closures (Easter and Christmas).
You can now reserve a meeting room online at https://orl.evanced.info/spaces, at least two days in advance. Library staff will approve your booking based on availability. Rooms are only available during the Branch's open hours.
View events in calendar format.
For details or registration info, click on an event below.
Downtown Light Up Festivities - Sunday, December 1 11:00am-3:30pm
Drop-in for family fun! Look for the Santa's reindeer for the Reindeer Roundup Scavenger Hunt and get crafty making a pine cone Christmas Tree.
Teens DIY Gifts - Tuesday, December 17 4:30-6:30pm
Registration required. Teens only!! Treat yo' self (or someone else) this season!
Christmas Puppet Show - The Bear Who Didn't Want to Miss Christmas
A festive and heartwarming puppet show! Based on the story The Bear Who Didn't Want to Miss Christmas by Marie Tibi. Recommended for children 3-6 Years. Free tickets are required and are available starting November 21 at the Children's Information Desk.
Kelowna Branch Story Times (Ages 0-6)
Fall Schedule:
Fall Story Times run from September 16th - December 7th. Drop-in & Free.
Alphabet Soup Reading Challenge
The Reading Challenge runs from September 16th - December 7th
Free & Drop-in
Join our Alphabet Soup Reading Challenge. Read 26 books by authors whose last names start with each letter of the alphabet. Enter for the Grand Prize Draws. Pick up your Soup Bowl Reading Record in-branch starting September 16. Winners announced December 9.
Thursdays, 3:00-4:30pm
Drop-in and build with the library's LEGO and KEVA Planks. LEGO creations will be displayed.
Registration Required. Kids 6-12 years old, join us for fun with STEAM: Science-Technology-Engineering-Arts-Math.
Online registration required. Ages 13+ (Teen event)
These events are organized by our Teen Advisory Group. To join this group and help plan fun events join us by registering for future meetings (see above).
We learn, develop and play together! Participate in engineering and coding activities that will build on each session. The Engineering Club will focus on robotics and circuitry. The Coding Club will focus on coding using Scratch.
Thursdays, twice monthly. Online registration required.
For more information or to register for those programs that require registration, please call 250-762-2800 or visit our events calendar.
Special Events
Book Clubs & Literary Events
Culture
Games Nights
Crafting Your Happiness
Language Learning
Technology Training
Genealogy
MakerSpace
What does an accessible public bathroom in your library sound like?
UBCO researchers are looking for Focus Group participants to talk about their experience with accessibility and the sounds of automatic fixtures [like taps, toilets, hand driers] in public bathrooms.
Date: The Focus Group will meet on Tuesday, July 23 from 3:30 to 4:30 PM, in Small Meeting Room 2.
Register: Sign up at www.ce2lab.org/public-bathrooms.
This is a research project undertaken by the University of British Columbia, Okanagan. The title of this project is The Enabled Environment: Understanding Bathrooms as Sensory Inclusive Public Spaces [H19-00118].For more information about the study, contact Dr. Fiona P. McDonald at fiona.mcdonald@ubc.ca.
Speaker Series
Second Thursday of the month | September through June | Main Floor Meeting Room Afternoon Club | 3:00 – 4:30 Evening Club | 7:00 – 8:30
Kelowna Branch is continuing our popular book club for adults. We invite you to read the suggested titles and join us once a month for a lively, facilitated discussion of the featured title. The book club is open to all interested adults, and pre-registration is not required.
September 12 | I'll be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara
October 10 | The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
November 14 | Warlight by Michael Ondaatje
December 12 | The Marrow by Cherie Dimaline
Every Tuesday | 1:00 to 2:30 pm | Main Floor Meeting Room
An all-inclusive book club, welcoming everyone regardless of reading ability and encouraging adults with diverse abilities to take part in discussions about new as well as classic titles. Books will be read together in a group setting with all participants invited to read aloud. Assistance with echo reading will be provided for those who wish to use it.
Registration required, call 250-762-2800 to register.
Join our group of play lovers and read a play live. This casual program is not intended to act out the play, but to read it as a group and investigate this art form. Pick up a copy at the 2nd floor information desk!
Wednesday | September 25 | 7:00 PM - Lost in Yonkers by Neil Simon Wednesday | October 30 | 7:00 PM Wednesday | November 27 | 7:00 PM
Drop-in program, no registration required.
The Poetry Circle invites all poetry enthusiasts to a warm and welcoming environment that fosters the creative exchange of poetry among poets of all writing levels.
Activities include reading and discussing works by the great poets, as well as the sharing and appreciating of original poems. Come enjoy the works of others and grow as a poet.
Tuesday | September 10 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | September 24 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | October 8 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | October 22 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | November 5 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | November 19 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | December 3 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | December 17 | 6:00 PM
Kelowna’s aspiring writers meet to discuss process and share experiences with published writers. All are welcome.
Tuesday | September 3 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | October 1 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | November 5 | 6:00 PM Tuesday | December 3 | 6:00 PM
1st & 3rd Mondays of the month | 1:00 pm
A memoir writing workshop bi-monthly on Monday afternoons at 1pm. All are welcome.
Saturdays | 2:00 – 3:00 pm
Get together with local creators and talk comics! Check out the work of others and come prepared to give them feedback.
Book a one hour, one-on-one appointment for device help.
No drop-ins. Call Kelowna Branch 250-762-2800 .
Want to get the most out of your smart devices? Bring your phone or tablet to Mobile Meet-Ups, a 3-class course that will improve your understanding of and confidence with your device.
Note: You will need your Apple ID or Google Play account login information.
Register online or call the Kelowna Branch, 250-762-2800.
Tuesday | September 10 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Tuesday | September 17 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Tuesday | September 24 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Thursday | November 7 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Thursday | November 14 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Thursday | November 21 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Thursday | November 21 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Thursday | November 21 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Thursday | September 12 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Thursday | September 19 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Thursday | September 26 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Tuesday | November 5 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Tuesday | November 12 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Tuesday | November 19 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Tuesday | November 19 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM Tuesday | November 19 | 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Bring your own laptop, or use one of our teaching laptops.
Wednesdays | 10:30 am
Wednesday | October 9 | Computer Basics Begin at the beginning. We cover how to turn the computer on and off, basic navigation in Windows 10, and introduce using the keyboard and mouse.
Wednesday | October 16 | Introduction to the Internet For internet newbies. A very basic introduction of what the internet is, and how to navigate it. Prerequisite: Computer Basics, or basic keyboard and mouse skills.
Wednesday | October 23 | Computer Basics – Review Come in to review what you have learned so far, practice and ask questions. Prerequisite: Computer Basics and Introduction to the Internet, or some basic computer and internet experience.
TBA | Computers Beyond the Basics Delve deeper into what your computer can do.
TBA | Internet Beyond the Basics Improve your skills for internet navigation.
TBA | Beyond the Basics – review Come in to review what you have learned so far, practice and ask questions. Prerequisite: Computer Beyond the Basics and Internet Beyond the Basics, or some computer and internet experience.
In partnership with Kelowna and District Genealogical Society, Kelowna Library hosts a variety of events, learning opportunities, and genealogical research assistance.
Drop-in programs, no registration required.
Thursdays | 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm | KDGS Library, second floor
Are you building your family tree? Always wanted to but aren’t sure how to start? Come to the library on Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, use the library edition of Ancestry – and get searching for your roots. Experienced users are on hand to help you get started. Bring your own computer, or bring an USB drive and use one of ours.
Come to the Library to chat with genealogists from the Kelowna and District Genealogical Society. Learn how to find more on your family tree, or ask about your next steps if you've hit a wall in your research.
Wednesdays | 1:00 - 3:00 pm
Thursdays | 1:00 - 3:00 pm
Saturdays | 1:00 - 3:00 pm (April - September)
Sundays | 1:00 - 3:00 pm (October - March)
Fourth Monday of the month | 7:00 - 8:30 pm
Family History Forums are hosted by the Kelowna & District Genealogical Society and the Okanagan Regional Library. They are free to everyone with an interest in tracing their Family History!
Tuesdays | 5:00 - 9:00 pm
Join our great group of board gamers for our weekly board game night. Our friendly and welcoming group plays all kinds of games from light social games to in-depth strategy games. Euros, Cataan, FFG games, card games, you name it we play it. People are welcome to bring their own games as we're always looking to try new things. Our group is mostly adults but we almost always have some supervised kids come and they are welcome. We hope to see you there!
Come play the game of kings! Everyone is welcome, from beginners to seasoned players.
Wednesdays | 5:30 – 9:00 pm
Adventurers wanted! Young and old, seasoned veterans or those so green they don’t know the difference between a goblin and a kobold. If you have the nerve to stand in the face of evil and send it back to the pits from whence it came, Kelowna’s D&D Adventurers League needs you! Come play the 5th Edition of the classic Tabletop RPG “Dungeons & Dragons.” Fight monsters, solve puzzles and avoid death in the most dramatic fashion.
RSVP at meetup.com/OKTabletop
The Okanagan's #1 Source for Super Smash Bros! All skill levels welcome!
Thursday | September 12 | 5:00 PM Thursday | September 19 | 5:00 PM Thursday | October 10 | 5:00 PM Thursday | October 17 | 5:00 PM Thursday | November 14 | 5:00 PM Thursday | November 21 | 5:00 PM Thursday | December 12 | 5:00 PM Thursday | December 19 | 5:00 PM
Once a month there will be a registered event with an artful craft lead by an experienced artist or crafter.
September: Wine Cork Pumpkins
Saturday | September 21 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Learn macrame basics by creating your own beautiful macrame plant hanger. This classic craft is easy to learn, fun, and a great way to house plants in your home all year long. You will leave knowing how to do a selection of knots so you can make your own creations for years to come.
October: TBD
Saturday | October 26 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Keep an eye on the Kelowna Branch online events calendar for updates!
November: Christmas Crafts
Saturday | November 23 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Join us for a festive craft session! Projects will be announced soon ... stay tuned!
December: Cross Stitch
Create a beautiful cross stitch taught by Christine. A perfect art lesson that you can decorate with or give as a gift. All materials are provided - join us to craft, create and connect!
Saturday | December 7 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Mondays | 5:00 - 7:00 pm
A Mandarin conversation drop-in session with Mandarin speaking tutors. All ages and levels are welcome.
Tuesdays | 7:00 - 9:00 pm
A drop-in English-Spanish language exchange. It is casual, all ages and levels are welcome.
Wednesdays | 6:30 - 8:00 pm | Small Meeting Room 2
A conversational English group for people with beginner to intermediate English language skills. Everyone welcome. Meet others, and improve your English with engaging conversation.
It has arrived! Join us in the MakerSpace to create, invent, tinker, explore and discover using a variety of tools and materials - such as our 3D printer, cricut cutter, digitization station, recording studio and more!
Note: Those under 14 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian maker. Contact or visit the Branch to learn more.
Adult/Youth | Drop-In
Come drop in and try out a range of technologies at the MakerSpace. Learn new skills or work on your project using our space and environment. We support 3D printing, vinyl cutting, audio recording, digitizing audio, video, photos, slides, and much more.
Wednesdays | 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM Saturdays | 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Adult | Registration Required
Get orientated to our MakerBot 3D printer. In this introduction, you will learn how to retrieve and prepare designs and successfully print objects. No previous experience required.
Friday | September 6 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Friday | October 18 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Adults | Registration Required
Build 3D design skills and learn how to personalize ready-made designs from Thingiverse. Some experience with 3D printing required.
Thursday | September 12 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Thursday | October 10 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM Thursday | November 14 | 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Record your own unique story for yourself or to share with the world. In this workshop, you will learn how to get started with using our recording studio. We encourage you to bring a personal storage device so you can take your audio recording home.
Tuesday | October 22 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Tuesday | November 12 | 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Learn how to use our digitization stations to make digital copies of your older media so that you can enjoy it on your computer, tablet or smart phone.
• Audio Digitization • Video Digitization • Photograph and Slide Digitization
Friday | October 25 | 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Adults/Youth | Drop-In
Can't make the current workshops? Until November 30, 2019 drop-in at the following start times for basic orientation (on one piece of equipment, dependent on interest of majority attending).
Orientation starts on time, latecomers may not be able to get certified.
Days/hours may be subject to change.
Tuesdays | 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Wednesdays | 2:45 PM - 3:30 PM Saturdays | 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
We have a variety of bookable and rental spaces in the Kelowna Library. All meeting spaces have free wifi. Some have presentation equipment available.
Please download and read Kelowna Library Rental Spaces Information Document for complete information, or call the library, 250-762-2800 with any questions.
Click here for a basic map showing the locations of all our meeting rooms.
You can reserve a meeting room online at https://orl.evanced.info/spaces , at least two days in advance. Library staff will approve your booking based on availability.
Small Meeting Rooms Available during branch open hours only. Rooms as is - no office supplies, A/V equipment or additional furnishings provided.
We currently have three small meeting room available to book. These rooms are free, hold up to 10-12 people, and can be booked up to 4 months in advance.
Classrooms Available during branch open hours only. Setup and take-down (exception of A/V equipment) is the responsibility of the renter. There are two classrooms available for rent on the second floor. They can be rented individually, or together to form one large meeting space. The classrooms have glass walls which can be opened or closed to change the configuration of the space.
If 20+ attendees, refuse must be taken by the renter.
Classroom 1 Capacity: 55 (theatre style) Technology: Ceiling Mounted Projector and Screen / Sound Rates (not incl. GST): $50 base rate (2 hours), $25 per additional hour, $150 per day (>6 to 8 hours). Hourly rate for hours more than 8.
Classroom 2 Capacity: 40 (theatre style) Technology: Sound system only Rates (not incl. GST): $40 base rate (2 hours), $20 per additional hour, $125 per day(>6 to 8 hours). Hourly rate for hours more than 8.
Great Room The library features a large event space on the second floor comprising the two classrooms and the additional reading lounge. The furniture is flexible in this space and it can be rearranged to accommodate a variety of functions. Please inquire for more details about this space.
Setup and takedown (exception of A/V equipment) is the responsibility of the renter.
Capacity: 300 (theatre style) Technology: Ceiling Mounted Projector and Screen / Sound Rates (not incl. GST): $300 base rate (4 hours), $50 per additional hour, $550 per day (>6 to 8 hours). Hourly rate for hours more than 8.
Please contact the branch at 250-762-2800 for further information or to book a room.
We can provide an introduction to the library or tailor the visit around a project/assignment.
Contact us today to see how we can help your class.
Daycares/Preschools must register if they wish to attend a storytime.
To book a free tour for kids contact Kelowna Youth Services Department 250-762-2800 or klysreference@orl.bc.ca.
Groups of adults can enjoy a tour at the library too!
ESL classes, retirement homes, book clubs and more can contact Kelowna Reference for further information.
To book a free tour for adults contact the Kelowna Reference Department 250-762-2800 or klreference@orl.bc.ca.
The Kelowna Friends of the Library, a non-profit organization formed in 1988, is registered under the Society Act of British Columbia and the Canada Income Tax Act. Persons interested in libraries are encouraged to volunteer with Friends as we support the downtown Kelowna, Mission & Rutland branches through our fundraising book sales and joint activities.
Funds raised significantly support Summer Reading Club and year-round programming for babes to toddlers to teens plus guest speakers & events for adults; and enhanced facilities at the three branches. Towards their various year-round book sales, Kelowna Friends accept donations of gently used books to their *NEW* sorting house at #114-2476 Westlake Road, West Kelowna, V1Z 2V2. This new Friends location is next to the Rose Valley Veterinary Hospital. PLEASE NOTE: There is presently no drop box available, but volunteers are on duty to review and accept items at this new location on Fridays, 9 am to 11:30 am.
Kelowna Friends' major fundraiser, the Great Okanagan Book Sale, takes place in November each year. For 2019, this will be held (Thursday-Saturday) on November 7-9th. The Kelowna Friends sponsor an endowment fund with the Central Okanagan Foundation.
For volunteer and donation information, please visit www.kelownafol.ca, or email Friends at fol4k@hotmail.com.
Follow Kelowna Friends on Facebook to keep updated on their latest activities and read posts on ORL, libraries, reading & literacy
Directors of Kelowna Friends of the Library hold meetings rotated between the three branch libraries, at 5:30 pm on the second Monday of each month. No board meetings are held in July & August. The society's AGM is held on a Saturday in late November.
For further information, please email fol4k@hotmail.com.
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