With libraries now reopened, now is the time to visit any of the 18 locations in Mississauga and take advantage of all the cool options and fun things offered within them. Here’s a list of some of the incredible programs offered at the libraries to help enjoy the summer to the fullest!

1. 3D Printing

PHOTO CREDIT: CREATIVE TOOLS VIA FLICKR (CC BY 2.0)

3D printing is a fun option offered at various libraries in the community. The printer is available any time the library is open and the cost for a print is $1.00 for set up and an additional $0.05 per minute – average print jobs run about 45 minutes, costing between $2.00 and $4.00. In order to print your own design you have to take a free, 30 minute class. The following Mississauga libraries offer 3D printing: Burnhamthorpe, Central, Malton and Erin Meadows. Check out our earlier article on 3D printing for an overview of the program and some cool examples!

2. Handicraft

Various Mississauga libraries offer Handicraft programs. After recently being expanded, you now have the option of knitting, needlework, and sewing by hand or by machine. The following Mississauga libraries offer a variety of these programs: Clarkson, Cooksville, Malton, Mississauga Valley, and South Common.

3. Robotics

Robotics is a creative and collaborative 21st century craft. It exercises problem solving abilities, and working with robotics helps to build a huge range of skills, including coding, which experts say is the key literacy for our time. Maker Mississauga builds robots from Lego Mindstorm Ev3 Kits, making robotics fun and accessible. Visit either the Lakeview or Malton branches of the Mississauga library system to join in on this cool option.

4. Building

Maker Mississauga building is another fun option offered within the library system. The program consists of constructing electrical projects that turn fans, light up, ring bells, and power different moving parts. Many cool and creative projects make up this program including reinventing old games and building new DIY versions, creating dough creatures with eyes that light up, and busting up old toys to create strange new versions. The library’s building programs are a great way for builders to come out, have fun, and share ideas with other builders. The following libraries offer Maker Mississauga building programs: Burnhamthorpe, Malton, Central library (children’s department), Mississauga Valley, Churchill Meadows, Clarkson, Port Credit, Courtney Park, South Common, Erin Meadows, Streetsville, Lakeview, and Woodlands.

5. Coding

Coding is said to be one of the most important skills of the digital age, and Maker Mississauga offers coding programs for adults, teens and children. By exploring fun introductions to coding concepts, you’ll be able to learn the basics of building a website and find new ways to express yourself online. The following Mississauga libraries offer coding programs: Burnhamthorpe, Churchill Meadows, Lakeview, and Woodlands.

6. Digital Filmmaking

Maker Mississauga offers digital filmmaking programs at various libraries in Mississauga. The program teaches many different techniques, including how to create stop motion animated movies, green screening, and exploring digital photography and video-making. The program will supply all the equipment needed, and it’s a creative way to learn something new while also collaborating with others.

7. Programs for Teens

Libraries across Mississauga have various programs for teens to come and enjoy. These programs include the following: CD & DVD upclycling, Self-esteem up, stress down (workshop), University & You, English Conversation Club for Youth, Teen book club, and TAG (Teen Advisory Group). The teen programs mentioned are available at the following Mississauga libraries: Central, Clarkson, Mississauga Valley, and Woodlands library.

8. Programs for Adults

The Mississauga library system also has programs for adults under three categories: Computers and Technology, Career & Business, and Health & Wellness. Meadowvale library offers eLibrary basics, where you’ll be able to discover how to access eMagazines, audioBooks, & eBooks. Central library offers a career and business program where the library staff will highlight key resources to be used in a job hunt or company research. Churchill Meadows library has an adult colouring program for health and wellness, to promote relaxation and stress-reduction. Supplies are provided, or you can bring your own colored pencils, crayons and markers or your own colouring project to work on.

It’s safe to say that there’s something for people of all ages to enjoy with all the programs offered within the Mississauga library system. Check out any of these fun and unique programs to help make for an eventful summer.